Over the course of a decade working in the surgical field, April’s research career began in cardiovascular physiology before shifting focus to microbiology and immunology. As a result, she has particular knowledge in several areas of biomedical science, including surgical equipment, vaccine development, and genetic engineering.
While working closely with anesthesiologists in the operating room, April published research in cardiovascular surgical outcomes. Throughout her undergraduate career, she gained experience in several areas ranging from botany to stem-cell research. After graduating from Indiana University with degrees in biology and chemistry, she entered Indiana University School of Medicine’s biomedical science Ph.D. program. As a graduate student, April performed cardiovascular surgery in large animal models, implemented molecular genetic manipulation using such techniques as PCR and CRISPR-Cas9, and focused on the effects of biological sex on viral pathogenesis.
In addition to biomedical research, April is passionate about science education and science literacy, devoting time and energy to teach undergraduate microbiology. With the mission to protect scientific integrity and advocate for those working in biomedical research, she served as president of her graduate class and founded science outreach organizations.