Maddy Shred, Ph.D.
I recently defended my Ph.D. in Biology at McGill. In my research, I studied the structure & dynamics of the microtubules in vitro. Outside of the lab, I organized seminars, was an active member of multiple EDI committees, and worked to build queer community among graduate students.
About me
Hi! I'm Maddy and I use they/them pronouns. I'm a recent PhD graduate in the Brouhard lab at McGill University. I'm interested in understanding how the structure of microtubules influences their dynamics and how the intrinsic dynamics of microtubules differ between divergent species.In my Ph.D., I developed technical skills in tubulin & MAP purification, light microscopy, fluorescence microscopy, cryo-EM, biochemical assays, and cell culture. I also developed strong skills in technical writing, data analysis, project management, organization, literature review, and critical thinking.Outside of the lab, I organized McGill's Queer Grad Club, Tea4T, a group for trans and nonbinary staff and students, and Out Loud: The Queer Voices in Research Symposium, which highlighted the work of queer researchers at McGill. I've also written for the ASCB Post about being nonbinary in academia and received the Quebec Lieutenant Governor's Youth Medal for my involvement in both queer and academic communities at McGill. My favourite pastimes include bird watching, embroidery & other needlecrafts, swimming, and cuddling my cat!I pride myself on my ability to synthesize complex scientific topics into understandable & accessible explanations, my ability to connect with people, and my intense curiosity for the world around me. Therefore, following my graduation, I'm looking to use my extensive life sciences & communications skillset to make an impact in the medical and science communication fields.
Publications
Shred, M., et al. (2025). Conformational flexibility of tubulin dimers regulates the transitions of microtubule dynamic instability, BioRxiv
Shred, M. (2022). A nonbinary grad student's guide to navigating STEM, ASCB Post
Get in touch
Are you looking to hire an eager, highly-trained young professional for your medical writing or science communication team?Are you curious about queer community building or want help organizing event? Are you looking for someone to write an article for your organization about topics ranging from being trans and nonbinary in academia, to practicing EDI in the workplace, or finding work-life balance in grad school?Then please contact me! I'd love to hear from you and see how I can help you out.