On Monday (8/12/24), Kariman Shama successfully defended her PhD Candidacy Qualifying Exam—our first in the Taylor Lab! She is passionate about investigating the role of cell-to-cell communicators, particularly extracellular vesicles (EVs), in tendon injury and disease. Her work on uncovering EVs’ contribution to tendon fibrosis following injury and age-related tendon degeneration will lead to the development of therapies that would restore tendon function, enhancing mobility and quality of life for millions. I’m excited to continue mentoring Kari as she unravels the rest of this scientific story. Let’s goooo, Kari!!

S/N: We celebrate accomplishments in the Taylor Lab with non-alcoholic sparkling cider—#inclusivecelebrations!