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Vision and Mission

The Research Success Core is the clinical research arm of the department of obstetrics, gynecology and women's health. The core was established to assist clinical faculty members in initiating and maintaining a research program and to assist basic science faculty members with translational research projects.

The Vision of the OBGYN RSC is to have a thriving clinical research environment that fosters the growth and development of clinician scholars and increases high-quality research and extramural research funding.

Our Mission is to increase the quality and quantity of clinical and translational research by increasing faculty engagement in research by providing experimental design, logistical planning, compliance and clinical research coordination.

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Research Success Core Staff

Laura C. Schulz, PhD

Laura C. Schulz, PhD

Director of Research Success Core; Director of the Institute for Women’s Health Research; Associate Professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health; Adjunct Associate Professor of Biological Sciences

Bio

The placenta is a crucial part of pregnancy in humans and other mammals, acting as a lifeline that enables transport of oxygen and nutrients from the mother to the fetus. Schulz works to understand how maternal hormones and nutrients affect placental function — and how that, in turn, affects the fetus’ development and future health. Through a study of mice, she has investigated the role of the hormone leptin in combating the effects of poor nutrition or diabetes. Additionally, she is part of multi-lab efforts to better understand how the placenta develops, as well as how the pre-birth environment affects bone health in offspring.

Schulz’s findings have appeared in many peer-reviewed journals. These include Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the USA, Endocrinology and other prestigious publications.

Numerous professional organizations have recognized Schulz’s outstanding research. In 2009, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine honored Schulz with its New Investigator Award. She is a member of the American Diabetes Association and the Society for the Study of Reproduction (SSR) and has served as chair of the SSR’s Public Affairs Committee.

Learn more about Dr. Laura Schulz

Staff Member

Akira Clemons

Akira Clemons

Research Specialist II

Bio

Akira graduated in Spring of 2024 from the University of Missouri-Columbia with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Science with an emphasis in Human Body, she minored in Chemistry. During my college years, Akira worked as a CNA/PCT at Belton Regional Medical Center, providing essential patient care and supporting the nursing staff. On campus, she conducted undergraduate research in Dr. David Schulz's lab, studying an animal model of Multiple Sclerosis. Akira is passionate about advancing medical science and improving patient outcomes, and I am dedicated to contributing to the healthcare and research community.

Staff Member

Hailey Schlaffer

Hailey Schlaffer

Research Specialist II

Bio

Hailey is a recent Ball State graduate with an MA in Psychological Science and MS in Quantitative Psychology. She successfully defended her thesis which predicted future gambling behavior and is working on publishing her manuscript. She enjoys social and cognitive sciences but is eager to learn about any topic that provokes questions. Hailey spends time being creative and athletic when she is able to do so.

Staff Member

Kaycee Makanos

Kaycee Mackanos

Research Specialist II

Bio

Kaycee graduated in the Spring of 2024 from the University of Missouri with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, with an emphasis in Medical Science and Human Biology, and Health Science under a Pre-Professional track. She also earned a minor in Business Administration and a Multicultural Certificate. Currently, she is pursuing a Master of Science in Medical Science at Baylor University and is expected to graduate in December 2025. During her time at Mizzou, Kaycee worked as an outpatient pharmacy technician at Mizzou Pharmacy, collaborating closely with both patients and pharmacists to ensure safe and effective medication management. She also gained clinical experience scribing for retinal surgeons, providing her with valuable exposure to specialty care and the day-to-day responsibilities of physicians. Kaycee is passionate about patient care and is deeply committed to translating complex basic science into exceptional, evidence-based clinical care, without hesitation or reservation.