Written by Ronald McMillan, Ph.D.
As this month’s postdoc spotlight, I’m excited to share a bit about myself. I’m originally from Wilmington, Delaware, and I’m proud to be the first in my family to graduate from college. Like many kids, my mom encouraged me to become a medical doctor. While I didn’t follow that exact path, her support planted the seed that grew into a passion for science. When I was younger, I didn’t really know what a scientist looked like beyond what I saw on TV, and I often questioned whether a career in science was something I wanted. After all, who really signs up for late nights in the lab, failed experiments, long years of school, and modest pay? What changed my perspective was the mentorship I received early in my career at North Carolina Central University. Having someone believe in me and guide me made all the difference, and it was there that I was inspired to push past those doubts and see myself as a scientist committed to research.
My training began in microbiology, where I studied antibiotic resistance in Neisseria gonorrhoeae. I later transitioned into human physiology during my PhD at the University of Delaware, investigating how dietary salt and fructose affect blood pressure and inflammation in healthy adults. When it came time to choose a postdoctoral fellowship, I was drawn to Vanderbilt University Medical Center because of its alignment with my dissertation research, the chance to build new technical skills, and the institution’s strong commitment to training scientists. I knew this environment would provide the mentorship and resources I needed to grow into the kind of researcher I aspire to be.
At VUMC, my research focuses on the cellular mechanisms that drive cardiovascular disease. My first year was devoted to gaining experience with murine models and complementary laboratory approaches, which prepared me for my current work on salt-sensitive hypertension. Looking ahead, I am excited to expand my research into weight cycling, or the repeated loss and regain of fat, an emerging issue with important implications for cardiometabolic health. At my core, I am a molecular physiologist, working to connect molecular mechanisms with whole-body physiology. My long-term goal is to build on this foundation and become a research investigator at an academic institution.
Like many postdocs, I know firsthand the challenges of this stage of training, from securing funding to balancing time and troubleshooting experiments. The guidance I have received from mentors has been invaluable, and I am committed to paying it forward by helping the next generation navigate these same obstacles. In the meantime, I am grateful to serve as President of the Vanderbilt Postdoctoral Association, where I have the chance to strengthen our community and support others on their journeys.
Outside the lab I’m a big Eagles fan, so you’ll often catch me saying “Go Birds!” I also love staying active, exploring Nashville with my wife, and spending time with our dog. Being part of such a collaborative and inspiring environment at Vanderbilt makes it even easier to enjoy the work I do and continue growing as both a scientist and a mentor.