Biography
Dr. Boldenow’s research focuses on understanding the mechanisms of adverse birth outcomes such as preterm birth. Specifically she is interested in the mechanisms by which Group B Streptococcus (GBS; S. agalactiae) interacts at the maternal-fetal interface. GBS infection in pregnancy increases risk for adverse birth outcomes such as preterm birth, neonatal sepsis, and congenital neurodevelopmental disorders, and is the leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality in the United States. In addition to infections during pregnancy, Dr. Boldenow is also interested in how environmental contaminants potential lead to adverse birth outcomes. During her Ph.D. she investigated how phthalates, brominated flame retardants, and trichloroethylene (TCE), contributed to changes in host immune response during pregnancy. Dr. Boldenow enjoys teaching in the classroom and working with undergraduates in the lab. She is also interested in understanding and incorporating best teaching practices in the college classroom.
When Dr. Boldenow is not teaching or in lab, she can usually be found spending time with friends and family. She enjoys cooking for lots of people and canning. She also enjoys the outdoors: canoeing, camping, and hiking. Life always seems better in a canoe.
Education
- B.S. in Biology, Calvin College, 2008
- Ph.D. in Toxicology, University of Michigan, 2014
Academic Interests
- Group B Streptococcus infection
- Host response to infections during pregnancy
- Adverse Birth Outcomes
- Host immune response to environmental contaminants
- Environmental stewardship
- Best teaching practices
Research
Dr. Boldenow’s research focuses on understanding the mechanisms of adverse birth outcomes such as preterm birth. Specifically she is interested in the mechanisms by which Group B Streptococcus (GBS; S. agalactiae) interacts at the maternal-fetal interface. GBS infection in pregnancy increases risk for adverse birth outcomes such as preterm birth, neonatal sepsis, and congenital neurodevelopmental disorders, and is the leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality in the United States. In addition to infections during pregnancy, Dr. Boldenow is also interested in how environmental contaminants potential lead to adverse birth outcomes. During her Ph.D. she investigated how phthalates, brominated flame retardants, and trichloroethylene (TCE), contributed to changes in host immune response during pregnancy. Dr. Boldenow enjoys teaching in the classroom and working with undergraduates in the lab. She is also interested in understanding and incorporating best teaching practices in the college classroom.
