OU Graduate College Student Spotlight: Gertrude Kyere-Davies Honored for Excellence at International Research Conference

Gertrude Kyere-Davies, a PhD candidate in Physiology at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, was recently recognized for her outstanding presentation at the Gordon Research Conference for Mammary Gland Biology—one of the premier international meetings for scientists advancing lactation and breast biology research. For Kyere-Davies, the honor was both humbling and inspiring. “It was energizing being surrounded by top scientists and researchers in the field of lactation and breast cancer,” she shared. “Hearing from people who are committed to advancing the health of women and their offspring reminded me why I chose this path.”

Kyere-Davies’ research explores a timely and pressing public health question: how maternal exercise during lactation influences milk lipid synthesis and shapes long-term metabolic outcomes in offspring, particularly in the context of obesity. Using cellular and metabolic assays, her work examines how caregiver behaviors can help overcome lactation challenges and reduce the risk of transgenerational metabolic burden. She is especially motivated by the translational potential of her findings. “Understanding these mechanisms could inform public health strategies that empower caregivers and reduce chronic disease risk in future generations,” she said. “Bridging basic science with real-world impact is at the heart of my work.”

In addition to celebrating her own achievement, Kyere-Davies offered thoughtful advice for fellow graduate students preparing for poster sessions at national conferences. She encourages students to approach their presentations as a story, guiding viewers through the research question, methods, findings, and significance. She recommends preparing both a one-minute overview for non-specialists and a deeper explanation for experts, and stresses the importance of being approachable and engaging throughout the conference. Above all, she urges students to practice aloud and test their explanations with peers outside their field: “If they understand your message, you’re ready.”

Kyere-Davies expressed gratitude to her mentor, Dr. Michael Rudolph, her lab team, and the Graduate College community for their support. As she continues advancing research that links maternal health, lactation physiology, and chronic disease prevention, the OU Graduate College celebrates her achievement and looks forward to what comes next.