Damon Smith

My name is Damon Smith, and I am currently a PhD Student at Texas A&M University studying reproductive physiology with a focus on beef cattle.

Currently, my research investigates circulating hormonal profiles between different breeds of beef cattle and how these hormones contribute to in vitro embryo-production success. My long-term goal is to be able to use this research to make in vitro embryo production more personalized to specific groups of cattle and, maybe someday, humans. Moreover, I also hope to find early markers of in vitro embryo success or failure hidden in the hormonal profiles of cows and develop strategies to limit in vitro embryo-production inefficiencies. I would like to join the Morulas Board of Governors to bring a production mindset to the organization and see how we can use our knowledge and research to improve reproductive efficiency for beef producers worldwide. Furthermore, I am very interested in learning about the great research that others in the field conduct, specifically within the field of wildlife and conservation. Lastly, I hope to develop future research collaborations and work hand in hand with other Morula members for the betterment of everyone’s career. I would like to thank the board for the opportunity to apply for this great position. Thanks!

Shilpa Doultani

I am Shilpa Doultani, a reproductive biologist finishing my doctoral research at the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) in Anand, Gujarat, India. With more than five years in the field of reproductive biology, I focused on gaining a profound understanding of in vitro embryo production and developing practical solutions for the problems faced by the industry.

My doctoral research is focused on developing an in-house media suite for in vitro bovine embryo production to reduce the cost of the technology. The media suite we developed was recently launched by NDDB and Indian Immunologicals Limited under the brand name Shashthi. It was indeed a proud moment for me as a researcher.

My doctoral research is industry funded, and while working with an industry interface, I could perceive a widening gap between academia and industry. There is an ardent need for us to orient ourselves to the real-life issues faced by the industry. This is one of the key roles of IETS Morulas: to make us future ready so that we hatch, implant, and grow.

Considering this, I would try to help the IETS Morulas as a governor in the following ways:

1. Expanding the IETS network through fostering knowledge exchange would be my priority, primarily through cultivating connections between students, academic researchers, and industry leaders. We would try to attain this objective with tailor-made workshops, academic presentations, and industry seminars.
2. One of my key dreams is to create a Morulas mentorship program involving industry leaders and academicians as mentors for the new entrants to the field to shape the views of future researchers.
3. IETS is strongest when it offers global representation, and I would bring budding researchers from different regions to IETS. This will bring regional issues to the discussion forum and may also provide fresh insights into existing challenges.

I would remain committed to keeping the dynamic platform of the Morulas informative and vibrant to strengthen IETS’s global impact.

I would be happy to discuss my ideas and interests with you further. Please connect with me on LinkedIn.

Hannah E. Braun

I am a second-year PhD student studying early embryo development in the Barfield Lab in the Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Lab at Colorado State University. As a dedicated member of the Morulas, I am passionate about fostering professional connections and creating accessible opportunities for graduate students and early-career researchers.

To enhance year-round engagement, I would focus on expanding participation in research and professional development webinars by improving social media outreach. These efforts would also foster connections outside the conference, showcase cutting-edge research and techniques, and provide opportunities to highlight Morula members‚ publications, and achievements. Additionally, I aim to update the Morulas page of the IETS website to reflect the most current information and highlight relevant resources for graduate students. A more user-friendly interface would ensure members at all training stages can easily access and benefit from these materials.

If selected to serve on the Morulas Board of Governors, I aim to improve transparency in critical processes, such as travel awards and student competitions. While abstract submission is well managed, applicants for travel awards and participants in student competitions are not always notified if they are not selected. Implementing clear and timely communication for all applicants‚ both selected and unselected, would create a more inclusive and supportive environment and help members plan accordingly for future opportunities.

Financial accessibility, particularly for the annual IETS conference, is another key priority. I would work toward expanding scholarships, including establishing a Morula-specific award to support conference attendance. This could involve applying for grants from scientific and agricultural foundations or industry partnerships to secure funding. Having experience with grant writing, I would work diligently to secure funding for Morulas initiatives, including new conference events such as preconference preparation workshops to provide members opportunities to build confidence, skills, and connections within the Morulas group.

By prioritizing communication, engagement, and accessibility, I hope to contribute meaningfully to the Morulas community and help foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for all. Serving on the Board of Governors would allow me to combine my organizational experience with my passion for mentoring and collaboration, strengthening the IETS society for current and future members.

Soledad Martin-Pelaez

My name is Soledad Martin-Pelaez, and I am a PhD student at the University of California, Davis, where I study equine early embryonic development. From the moment I attended my first IETS Annual Conference, I felt the warmth and inclusivity of the Morulas community. It’s a network of supportive, passionate, and driven individuals who encourage and inspire each other. That sense of belonging has been a cornerstone of my academic journey.

Over the past year, I have had the privilege of serving on the Morulas Board of Governors. This experience has been incredibly rewarding, as I’ve worked alongside an amazing team to grow our community and ensure that every trainee feels welcome and valued. Together, we’ve organized interactive webinars showcasing the work of fellow Morulas, created opportunities for meaningful connections at the annual meeting, and used social media to celebrate our members and keep everyone engaged year-round.

What I appreciate most about the Morulas community is its emphasis on collaboration and mutual support, creating an environment where trainees can thrive together. If re-elected, I’m excited to continue fostering this sense of community by

1. increasing the number of events at the annual meeting to foster networking and help trainees connect on both professional and personal levels,
2. expanding virtual initiatives to ensure that no matter where you are in the world, you feel like a vital part of the Morulas family, and
3. increasing Morula outreach to improve trainees’ opportunities for future careers and collaborations.

Being part of the Morulas community has been an immensely rewarding aspect of my PhD experience, and I am deeply passionate about giving back to this incredible group. Thank you for considering my nomination. I look forward to continuing to work together to make the Morulas a space where everyone feels supported, connected, and inspired. I am also looking forward to seeing you at the annual meeting in Fort Worth or virtually!

Andrea Carolina Carrillo Gomez

As an aspiring researcher, I am passionate about contributing to IETS by strengthening its role as a platform for collaboration and innovation. My goal is to help the society expand opportunities for early-career researchers, promote diversity and inclusivity within the field, and facilitate access to cutting-edge knowledge and resources. I believe that creating strong mentorship networks and engaging young scientists through workshops, webinars, and social events will cultivate the next generation of leaders in reproductive biotechnology.