Chinyere Mary-Cynthia (Ikele) Awaogu
Community and Membership Engagement Subcommittee
Osaka University

Research Interest:

When I was a child, one unforgettable scene that deepened my desires and interest in agriculture was seeing a Toggenburg goat with fawn coat color undergo parturition in the pen, hearing the screeching sound made by the dam, and within seconds seeing the propelling action of the fetus with my grandpa providing natal aid. This scene remains vivid in my memory, as childbirth is both stressful and joyous when successful. The moment persuaded me to choose a career in animal science, majoring in animal breeding and genetic engineering for my undergraduate studies and currently specializing in cellular biology and genome analysis for my graduate studies.

My research focuses on characterizing novel candidate genes involved in the PiRNA biogenesis. The significance of this research leaves me engrossed in probing reproductive deficiencies and malfunctioning morphology of Drosophila caused by transposon replication within the genome. The fulfillment that comes from identifying a novel gene that has not been reported in the field is one of gracious self-esteem.

As a PhD-trained scientist, you have many career options. What interests you the most?

Career options are specific to individuals based on interest and can be influenced by various factors. In my case, it is the unending inquisitiveness regarding current trends, directions, and novel innovations in science. The facts and convictions of the amazing technological innovations and ground-breaking scientific discoveries that have aided man since inception keep my passion rooted. The multi-disciplinary nature of a PhD enables me to leverage skills accumulated during the program. Research output in transposable markers affecting reproductive efficiency has justifiably aided the industry and government in making rational decisions concerning gene editing and cutting-edge policies regarding genome-wide analysis. Scientific outcomes can influence science policy, and advocating through science communication can curate evidence-based decision-making and drive positive societal change.

In addition, it is fulfilling and rewarding to share knowledge and inspire the next generation of scientists. Because making science accessible and engaging to the public is essential, I am passionate about writing, speaking, and creating content that demystifies complex scientific concepts and promotes science literacy. This passion is evident in my contribution to and identification with various scientific organizations, such as GSA, STEM Girls Africa, and Reach Sci Cambridge University. To further navigate the field, I am involved with the science policy training affiliated with the University of California, Irvine. The field’s flexibility makes it more fascinating.

In addition to your research, how do you want to advance the scientific enterprise?

A diverse scientific community fosters creativity and innovation. I am dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion within the scientific workforce, ensuring that opportunities are available to underrepresented groups.

My experiences include being a committee member of STEM Girls Africa. In this role, I have mentored over 100 high school students (87% women), including 22 students who have graduated on the benefit of choosing a career in STEM.

Driving science messages to the community and non-scientific teams has many challenges. This issue can be tackled through advocacy and wider communication, using varying perspectives while disseminating vital information. I hope to be a voice of change by advocating science outcomes to my community and the world at large through collaboration and teamwork. Science requires all hands on deck, and there is no better way than to be the change we seek.

As a leader within the Genetics Society of America, what do you hope to accomplish?

The early career leadership role is an opportunity and niche for young, thriving scientists¾who have been limited by certain unprecedented challenges¾who have passion and drive to add to the scientific community. My foremost goal is to contribute to the advancement and incorporation of such individuals within the genetics community and support them in their scientific endeavors. I look forward to unravelling new perspectives, innovative ideas, and strong dedicative spirit, as well as collaborate with GSA’s visions and motives. My goal in serving this organization includes an all-inclusive and holistic approach that supports diversity, equity, and inclusion in research. This is attainable by empowering young scientists and disseminating new approaches that promote the sharing of science with constructive feedback.

Because of the fundamental role that genetics plays in all scientific fields and spheres and units of life, one of my objectives is to foster multidisciplinary links within the genetics community. I aim to become a channel and facilitator to connect researchers across fields of specialization.  Additionally, to ensure GSA remains at the forefront of genetic research, I hope to schedule workshops and conferences that emphasize emerging technologies and methodologies while crediting and appreciating authors of such work and their impacts in the scientific community.

Furthermore, I am committed to fostering and supporting engagement with early-career scientists, as the quality of budding scientists determines the trends of genetics and science in the long run. I envision advocacy through mentoring sessions, career development resources, and platforms for young researchers to present their work and network with established professionals. Through these actions, I hope to ensure a vibrant and sustainable scientific community.

Previous leadership experience

  • Delegate for Asia Pacific Youth SDGs Summit 2024, Seoul, South Korea, August 2024
  • Delegate for the Universal Youth Movement, Bangkok, Thailand, May 2024
  • Delegate G7 Summit World Trade Organization, Japan, October 2023
  • Career Committee Member, STEM Girls Africa, July 2023–present
  • Brand Ambassador, Rem Tech Europe, November 2022–present
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