We are a reproductive physiology lab with an interest in
how reproductive traits evolve, diversify, and adapt.
The Wilsterman Lab is particularly interested in the physiology that constrains reproductive output and the mechanisms that are responsible for variation in reproductive traits among and within species. We ask questions about two different types of variation in reproduction:
In addition to thinking about origins of biological diversity and evolutionary processes, we are interested in using these perspectives to understand human health and disease. Current work in the lab is using these approaches to understand the origins of fetal growth restriction in high elevation communities and to identify solutions to these universal challanges.
- What systems underlay stable variation in reproductive function (including adaptive variation in reproductive function)?
- Which cues and physiological systems does mom use to control her investment across a reproductive cycle (i.e., individual variation in investment)?
In addition to thinking about origins of biological diversity and evolutionary processes, we are interested in using these perspectives to understand human health and disease. Current work in the lab is using these approaches to understand the origins of fetal growth restriction in high elevation communities and to identify solutions to these universal challanges.
Current Lab Members and Affiliates
Kate Wilsterman, PhD Principal Investigator Background: CV Bucknell University, BSc (Biol.) UC Berkeley, PhD (Int. Biol.) UMontana, Post-doc (Evol. Biol.) Interests: eco/evo/repro. physiology Hobbies: running, skiing, great coffee, and a good laugh. Favorite Lab Item: The cryostat! |
Anna Bautista Lab Manager (Summ. 2022) Background: CSU, BSc (Zoology), with an Anthropology minor Interests: Neuroendocrinology & reproductive phys. Hobbies: reading, sunshine, and countless creative endeavors. Favorite Lab Item: P5000 |
Ashley Larson, MS Research Technician (Fall 2022) Background: CSU BSc (Zool. & Biol.), CSU MS (Zoology) Interests: Conservation, adaptation, & physiology Hobbies: Anything outdoors! Favorite Lab Item: APX100 fluorescent scope |
Meg Hemmerlein PhD Student (CMB, Fall 2022) Background: Wheaton College, BA (Biochem.) Interests: Functional genomics & cell biology Hobbies: Skiing, mountain biking, dogs, and snacks Favorite Lab Item: Mini-trash cans! |
Chloe Butler Master's Student (Biology, Spr. 2023) Background: Texas A&M, BSc (Biology), with a Philosophy minor Interests: Animal behavior & physiology Hobbies: Photography and anything with my dogs! Favorite Lab Item: APX100 fluorescent microscope |
Mya Voigtsberger Undergraduate Researcher (Spr. 2022) Background: Current CSU Zoology student, pursuing veterinary school Interests: Wildlife medicine and reproductive phys. Hobbies: Dressage, rock climbing, and hanging out with wolves Favorite Lab Item: Mini-trash cans (AKA staining jars) |
Ellery Myers Undergraduate Researcher (Fall 2022) Background: Current CSU Biology student, pursuing medical school Interests: Reproductive biology Hobbies: Anything outside |
Gabe Koubek Visiting Student Researcher (Spr. 2023) Background: Current Maastricht Univ. student in Medical Biology, pursuing medical school Interests: High altitude phys./adapt. Hobbies: Alpine climbing, motocross, & welding/masonry Favorite Lab Item: Roto-vap |
Kylie Jewett Undergraduate Researcher (Fall 2022) Background: Current CSU Biology student Interests: Embryology and reproductive biology Hobbies: Hiking, reading, and music Favorite Lab Item: APX100 fluorescent scope |
Collaborators
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\We work closely with a number of labs in the Front Range and beyond! If you are interested in collaborating, we would love to hear from you.
Our lab works particularly closely with the Williams Lab, including running joint lab meetings and lab events (see right)! Our other collaborators (past and present) include:
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Holiday Party 2022. L to R, Front Row: Ellery Myers, Mo Sherrier, Anna Bautista, Mya Voigtsberger, Aria Fischer, Kiska, and Cory Williams. Back: Kate Wilsterman, Zephyr, Cole Deal, Ashley Larson, Emma Magna, and Meg Hemmerlein.
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