Meet Madeleine, a dedicated research assistant in Professor Briony Forbes’ Proteins in Metabolism and Cancer group. Her work revolves around investigating the molecular mechanisms behind insulin and insulin-like growth factors binding to their receptors, impacting vital signaling pathways that control metabolism and growth.
Madeleine’s Flinders journey began with a Bachelor of Medical Science, where she discovered her passion for research in the Forbes lab. She cherishes the dynamic and ever-changing nature of her field and finds joy in inspiring others to pursue careers in research.
What is your role and what does your work focus on?
I am a research assistant in the Proteins in Metabolism and Cancer group, led by Professor Briony Forbes. We are focused on the molecular mechanisms behind insulin and insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) binding to their cell surface receptors and how this leads to important downstream signaling pathways that control metabolism and growth. A better understanding of these mechanisms will also lead us to a better understanding of how this system and its downstream signaling pathways can be dysregulated in diabetes and cancer. We use a variety of different techniques in the lab including molecular biology, protein expression, purification, and in vitro assays to achieve this.
Where did you work and / or study before joining CMPH / FHMRI?
I completed a Bachelor of Medical Science at Flinders University in 2020, followed by my Honours in 2021, and did two placements and my Honours with the Forbes lab. While I was completing my undergrad and Honours I had a casual job at a pub and it’s safe to say I certainly don’t miss the night hours! After honours, I joined the Proteins in Metabolism and Cancer group full-time as a research assistant in early 2022.
What journey brought you to this point in your career?
I originally enrolled in Medical Science at Flinders with the intention of continuing on to study postgraduate medicine. I am someone who loves to learn so I very quickly found a passion for research in a summer placement within the Forbes lab and was encouraged to continue with a 3rd year placement and then Honours. Listening to my colleagues and other researchers in CMPH made me realise that finding a career is not always linear and that your career goals can shift. Right now, I love the flexible nature of research and watching how our field changes and adapts as new information comes to light which is exciting.
What is something you love most about your work?
I love being able to inspire other people to take the leap and pursue a career in research. Our lab recently hosted a group of year 10/11 students for placement, and it was amazing to see the lightbulb moments when they understood the concepts and hearing all their questions. I also love the collaborative and supportive environment that I work in, not just with my lab colleagues but the broader CMPH community!
How do you like to relax or spend your spare time?
I spend most of my spare time playing football for West Adelaide in the SANFLW competition and enjoy camping, spending time with my cat, and playing video games on my Nintendo DS to relax.