Asking about both partners
Winifred W. Mak combines reproductive medicine with laboratory and clinical research. She describes a study recruiting couples with recurrent pregnancy loss and examining aspects of sperm, including DNA damage. Her aim is to investigate possible contributions from male partners in an area where she says attention often falls on women. The differences she reports raise research questions rather than establish a single cause.
Studying a process that is hard to see
Mak explains why early embryo implantation is difficult to investigate directly inside the body. Researchers use cell cultures and three-dimensional models to study parts of the process. She stresses that these are imperfect models. Comparing samples with those from fertile participants is another way her team looks for clues, while questions about their significance remain.
Combining care with investigation
An interest in biology, hospital volunteering and a father who worked in nursing helped draw her towards medicine. A science year during medical school and later research opportunities encouraged her to pursue a doctorate too. She describes patience and perseverance as important, recalling a long wait for research funding and a point when she nearly gave up. Her route combines caring for people with trying to answer unresolved questions.