Amanda Haage

What are your primary research and scholarly interests?

I have consistently been interested in how cells sense and respond to their surroundings. I started in my Ph.D. looking at the response side of things in how cells activate enzymes responsible for rearranging the extracellular matrix and shifted to the sensing side of things in my post-doc working on proteins traditionally involved in cell to extracellular matrix adhesion. I have continued this primary interest in my own lab at UND primarily in the context of cancer cell metastasis and how a balance of cell adhesion (sticky enough, but not too stuck) regulates how cancer cells move.

How does this tie into the work you are doing with ND-ACES?

I am in the Cellular Pillar and throughout my career I have worked alongside engineers in characterizing novel scaffolds or hydrogels that allow us to better model the human body. Cells in traditional 2D culture are a marvel of the 20th century, but the next jump to be made is being able to look at things in 3D and in environments that more closely mimic the body, particularly in physical properties – we’re not made of glass or hard plastic!

Where are you from and where did you pursue your education?

I grew up in eastern Iowa. I did my BA at Wartburg College, my Ph.D. at Iowa State University, and my post-doctoral training at the University of British Columbia.

What motivates you?

I am motivated by a passion for lifelong learning. The joy of acquiring new knowledge and skills, exploring diverse subjects, and staying adaptable in a changing world fuels my drive. Lifelong learning empowers me to contribute meaningfully, collaborate effectively, and embrace new challenges. It provides a sense of fulfillment, personal growth, and the opportunity to make a positive impact in both my personal and professional life.

What was your first job?

I worked at a gas station making pizzas.

What does your very best day include?

Currently, a beverage on my back porch while grilling with my dogs.

What’s your favorite quote?

"The best way to predict the future is to create it." – Peter Drucker