Why would I want to join the lab?
Our primary research is on orthopedic injury risk during pregnancy. A student may choose to join the lab because of an interest in:
- improving health outcomes for pregnant individuals and their children.
- factors that influence orthopedic risks long after pregnancy.
- factors the alter balance control and prohibit participation in normal activities during and after pregnancy.
What qualifications* do I need to join the lab?
* see bold terms for qualifications
We study pregnancy/postpartum injury risk. There are many scientific and clinical fields that are encompassed in this topic. We welcome students from all backgrounds as long as they have an enthusiastic interest in one (and preferably more than one) of these topics. We’ve had students from bioengineering, biology, biomechanics, chiropractic, computer science, electrical engineering, kinesiology, mechanical engineering, neuroscience, obstetrics, occupational therapy, orthotics, physical therapy, psychology, statistics, and zoology work in the lab. If you have an interest in one of the topics we study, your presence in the lab is welcomed. Your experiences will contribute to making us a better research lab.
We work with vulnerable and underserved populations, and want to put the best face forward. Professionalism, friendliness, and compassion are paramount to successfully working with and retaining research participants. However, we do a lot of research for society, and very little individualized client work. You have to be interested in and appreciate scientific research. A lot of the research we do involves anatomy, math (trig), computer modeling, and sometimes coding/programming. If you don’t feel experienced in these already, you at least cannot be afraid to learn these and be ready to problem-solve and self-teach. We also dive into some controversial topics for some people like women’s rights and human evolution. You must be openminded.
How do I join the MOM lab?
There are currently several routes to join our lab. In all cases, please send me an email that includes your transcripts and CV/résumé. I will review, and schedule an interview.
Undergrads
The MOM lab has had undergrads from many different majors around WSU. No prereq courses needed, just the qualifications mentioned above. If you are interested in getting into the lab to get research credit, do a practicum, or just the volunteer, please send Dr. Catena an email describing your interest. Also include a copy of your transcripts and résumé.
Graduate degree options
Kinesiology M.S.
Dr. Catena is an Associate Professor in Kinesiology at WSU. The Kinesiology program has B.S. and M.S. degrees. The best way to find out about being in the lab and assistantships in the Kinesiology program is to contact Dr. Catena. Click here for the application process to the Kines grad program.
Neuroscience or Biomedical Science Ph.D.
Dr. Catena is a graduate faculty member in Neuroscience at WSU, which encompasses the Integrative Physiology (Biomedical Science) PhD. If you are considering this option, first contact Dr. Catena regarding getting into the lab to do research. Click here for the application process to the Neuroscience and Biomedical Sciences grad programs.
Are you a local high school student?
Dr. Catena is willing to accept exceptional high school students to intern in the lab. Students must be hard-working, motivated, and dedicated. If you are interested, please email Dr. Catena to set up an appointment so that you meet and discuss a position further.