Jocelyn McDonald
Associate Professor
Biology
Research overview
We often think of cells as being stationary, but it turns out many types of cells can move around, or migrate, inside the body. Some cells even move together in so-called “collectives” to help form organs, heal wounds, and contribute to other physiological processes. Collective cell migration contributes to cancer, where tumor cells can move as collectives to invade tissues and metastasize to distant sites. I am interested in understanding how groups of cells migrate inside tissues, especially when encountering stressful cellular and tissue environments.
What motivated you to pursue research in this specific field, and how has your focus evolved over time?
I studied molecular biology as an undergraduate student. After pursuing a Ph.D. in nervous system development, I became interested in diving deeper into cell behaviors. Over the years, my research has revealed different ways that cells stick together, navigate tissues and keep migrating in groups.
Read more about Dr. McDonald’s research in K-State’s April 30 Research Weekly.