Beyond the Binary: The Influence of Gender and Sex Understandings on Hormone Therapy

The convergence of my technical project and STS research aims to enhance individuals' well-being through scientific rigor and social understanding. My technical project focuses on developing a predictive model to estimate baseline serum estradiol concentration in female laboratory mice. The aim is to refine our understanding of women's health and hormone therapy by addressing the research bias that favored male mice. On the other hand, my STS research investigates the cultural and ethical dimensions of gender diversity in medical practices, particularly how societal attitudes influence the acceptance and implementation of gender-affirming care. Together, these projects highlight the interplay between engineering innovation and societal values, underscoring the importance of STS in guiding ethical engineering practices sensitive to biological nuances and cultural complexities. The motivation for these intertwined projects stems from recognizing the gaps in current medical research both in the laboratory and in societal perceptions. By establishing a reliable baseline of estradiol concentration in female mice, my technical project challenges outdated norms and paves the way for more accurate models of human health. Concurrently, my STS research advocates for a medical paradigm that embraces gender diversity, ensuring that advancements in healthcare are inclusive and equitable.