Nadine Lerret, PhD
Assistant Professor 
Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences
Role: Faculty
Joined Rush in August 2014
Bio
I am a classically trained in basic science researcher, receiving my PhD in Immunology from Rush University and completing a postdoctoral fellowship at Northwestern University. I am also a certified medical laboratory scientist. This combination drives my research interest in examining the interplay between T cells and dendritic cells in patients with metabolic disease and chronic hyperglycemia. My primary teaching responsibilities are in the Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, where I am the clinical chemistry and immunology course director as well as the director of student research.
What inspired you to get into your field?
I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do after undergrad and having professors that inspired me and kept me engaged in science made all the difference. My goal is to pay this forward and inspire the next generation of scientists through teaching and research.
What excited you about your work at Rush?
I get to teach every day about topics I love and do research with excited students.
What is your opinion of mentoring and sponsorship? Please comment about your experiences.
Rush provides an extensive networking and mentoring environment in order to foster career growth and opportunities. I am fortunate to say I love my job. Without mentoring and the confidence that I have gained through professional coaching and sponsorship I would not be in this position doing what I love.
Do you have tips or advice you would recommend for someone looking to enter your field of work?
Make sure you are excited about what you do on a daily basis. Everyone has a passion and once you find it, work doesn’t feel like “work” anymore.
What are your hobbies? How do you like to spend your free time?
In my “free time” I chase after my two little boys.