MEMBERS

Tom Lemonnier

Postdoctoral Scientist
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Since the beginning of my studies in biology, I have always been fascinated by the complexity of the molecular mechanisms responsible for the elaboration of life, from cell division to the development of complex organisms. I completed my bachelor and master’s degree at Sorbonne University in Paris. During my master, I first worked on the genetic regulation of kidney development in Xenopus, especially the implication of the transcription factor Pax8. I then worked on the conservation of retinoic acid signalling in the mesodermal tissue development between two species, Xenopus and the cephalochordate amphioxus. For my PhD, I decided to return to my first loves: biochemistry and cell division. I did my PhD in Catherine Jessus’ lab at the Sorbonne University in Paris. During my 3 years of PhD, I worked on the molecular regulation of meiosis resumption in Xenopus oocytes. Notably, I have identified a new crucial role for the phosphatase PP2A during the first steps of meiosis resumption and the activation of the kinase Cdk1. During these years, I have also been fortunate to be able to teach at the undergraduate level, which has motivated to pursue a career as a lecturer. I joined the Mogessie lab because I want to continue working in the exciting meiosis field in another model, the mouse. I’m now working on the importance of centromere strength in age-related mammalian oocyte aneuploidy. This is for me a great opportunity to develop my knowledge in the field in a dynamic and vibrant environment in order to pursue my goal.

List of publications

Unraveling the mysteries of female meiosis through quantitative cell biology