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Selina Tucker, who graduates this semester with a Ph.D. in integrative physiology from The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth’s College of Biomedical and Translational Sciences, had an interest in science and medicine from an early age, but she was unsure where her curiosity in these areas would lead. A biology/pre-med undergraduate degree, where she published her first peer-reviewed research paper, led Tucker to UNTHSC for graduate school, and now to a fetal health postdoctoral research position at Children’s Mercy Research Institute in Kansas City, Missouri.

She had plans for medical school, but an undergraduate capstone course opened her eyes to something else – forensic anthropology and biological science research. Tucker wanted to know more about field research in these areas, and her interests fostered a collaboration between the two departments. Her first published paper investigated fungus growth on decomposing human remains.

“I knew from that experience that I wanted to be involved in research at a larger level,” Tucker said.

When it came time to apply to medical schools, she also considered research-based master’s programs.

She was inspired to pursue a graduate degree for a number of reasons, largely because of her desire to improve people’s health outcomes.

“In the beginning, I thought this would be through direct patient contact but realized very quickly that biomedical research would allow me to combine my love for research with my desire to help others,” Tucker said.

After an interview with two UNTHSC faculty for the biomedical science master’s program, Tucker was invited to apply for the Ph.D. program instead.

“They felt that I was a good fit for the graduate program and would excel jumping right into a Ph.D. out of undergrad,” Tucker said.

UNTHSC also offered her the opportunity to rotate with different researchers to find her own area of research.

Tucker walked into the lab of Dr. Johnathan Tune, professor and chair of physiology and anatomy and interim dean of CBTS, with a project idea that was “loosely related to his expertise,” she said.  He allowed her to run with her ideas and helped her create a dissertation project that she was passionate about.

“Dr. Tune had a monumental impact on my success at UNTHSC,” Tucker said. “Under his mentorship I learned how to design strong, hypothesis-driven research studies, ask complex questions, and even survive in the lab as the only woman among five rowdy men. He set an example of how to have a very successful career in academic research while maintaining a fun learning environment with lots of laughs.”

“I will forever be grateful and will cherish the skills I learned during my time in his lab,” Tucker said.

From day one, Tucker said, Tune was supportive of her goals and aspirations and did everything in his power to ensure that she was well equipped to meet those goals.

“Selina came into the lab with a very focused goal, and it was a pleasure to watch her development through the program and see her hard work turn into success,” Tune said.

Some of the academic achievements Tucker is most proud of include a two-year predoctoral American Heart Association fellowship; the Outstanding Graduate Student in Integrative Physiology award; the Robert J. Hardin Translational Cardiovascular Research Award; and her work on 10 peer-reviewed publications, reflecting a mix of original research and reviews, with two as first author.

A memorable UNTHSC experience was working with her cohorts to start a student organization called the  PHANatics, bringing physiology and anatomy students together for team building, collaboration and support.

“It was difficult building community and finding support among other graduate students during the thick of COVID in August 2020,” Tucker said, explaining how PHANatics came about.

“Our biggest success was starting an annual department retreat where students, faculty and staff were able to share research, accomplishments and have fun. I’m really proud of how the organization has grown and continues to support students.”

Today, Tucker plans to continue her biomedical research career with a focus on women’s reproductive and cardiovascular health.

“I hope to be a mentor to other trainees passionate about research and create a research legacy to be proud of,” she said.

Her advice for other students?

“My best advice is to do the thing you are scared of. Growth happens in the times when you are stressed, scared and pushed to dig deep – but when you’re passionate about what you’re doing, it all becomes worth it,” she said.

“You will surprise yourself when you look back in five years and realize that you are far beyond where you ever thought you would be.”

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