My first #shockcon

Yesterday, 2023 President elect Dr. Melanie Scott shared some reflections on her first #shockcon. Today, we here from her graduate student Joud Mulla, who this year is attending her first in-person #shockcon.

Tell us a little about yourself:

JM: I am currently a Ph.D. student at the University of Pittsburgh in the Cellular and Molecular Pathology program. I grew up in Saudi Arabia and moved to the US after finishing high school to pursue my secondary education. I completed my undergraduate degree at Simmons University in Boston, MA, and my master's degree at Brown University in Providence, RI. I joined the Shock Society in 2021. I am interested in studying the role of inflammasomes in trauma-induced coagulopathy, specifically the role of caspase-4/11 in endothelial cells and liver.

Tell us about your first #shockcon:

JM: My first #shockcon was virtually in 2021 during the pandemic. It was my first time participating in a conference where I had a poster presentation on the effects of engineered antimicrobial peptides on LPS-induced inflammation. I remember being excited and nervous since it was my first #shockcon. I participated in an engaging poster session where I presented data and got helpful feedback and questions.

What does the Shock society mean to you?

JM: I am still beginning my career, but Shock society has already helped me tremendously. Within my first year of joining shock, the society gave me various opportunities to present my research. It also provided me with a travel award to support me in attending the shock meeting in Toronto.Shock society fosters distinguished scientists in the field. It recognizes their members with plenty of awards to highlight their significant scientific contributions. In addition, shock promotes equality and diversity and introduces members to new research in shock, trauma, and sepsis. 

What are you looking forward to most about this years’ meeting in Toronto?

JM: I am looking forward to attending my first shock conference in person and presenting my oral and poster presentations. I am excited to expand my professional network and meet new people in the field of shock and trauma. It is also my first time in Toronto!