Our team spotlights

Meet Alex Peterlin, PhD

Senior Scientist

Can you share a bit about your background and what led you to join Paterna BioSciences?

I am a molecular biologist passionate about developing new therapies. My professional background is in metabolism, physiology, and kidney cancer. I bring a diverse set of training to Paterna that is helping us troubleshoot complicated and multifaceted research problems.

What is your role at Paterna, and how does your work contribute to the mission of solving male infertility?

At Paterna BioSciences, I am a Senior Scientist and work primarily at the bench, designing and carrying out important experiments. My efforts are helping us break the in vitro spermatogenesis pipeline into smaller pieces so that we can consider each part of the process in more digestible bites. This work is integral to generating a robust system that serves as many people as possible.

What aspect of working in the field of reproductive health are you most passionate about?

Along with many others on the Paterna team, I am incredibly motivated by the prospect of helping couples who struggle with fertility have children.

What drives you to innovate in the area of male fertility?

I’m excited to be working in reproductive health because our research is ambitious, timely, and well positioned to serve many people. Considering that global fertility rates and male sperm counts have been rapidly decreasing over the last half-century, our work is more important now than ever before. This is what drives me to innovate and help us realize our mission!

Why is fertility and the treatment of infertility so important to you?

Fertility is important to me because family is such an important part of my life. I want to give others the same opportunity to grow their families and share in the joy of parenthood.

How does collaboration within the team contribute to the success of Paterna?

Collaboration is a core value at Paterna and it’s present in each and every project we undertake. Our collective expertise is broad, and it is by collaborating with each other that we tackle and solve the most complex issues. Teamwork enriches our research experience, contributing to our supportive and inquisitive culture.

What’s unique about the culture at Paterna that differentiates it from other places you’ve worked?

Paterna’s culture is diverse, supportive, and dedicated. Rather than having a pre-established culture, we each bring something to the table giving us all a sense of belonging and ownership. It is this culture of solidarity and dedication that differentiates us from other companies and will serve us well through the challenges that accompany bringing any kind of new product to the market.

What impact do you hope your work will have in the community?

I hope my work will transform the lives of couples trying to conceive! This may come by way of the new service we will provide or by a reduced average cost for assisted reproductive technology – either way, our work will give people more options and thus hope for having children.

Where do you see the future of fertility treatments going, and how is Paterna positioning itself to lead that change?

Fertility is a growing global concern and I believe the Paterna Process will be central to the success of worldwide efforts to increase fertility and give people more options than they currently have. Some men are currently incapable of having children, even with in vitro fertilization, and we will likely be able to serve some or perhaps even all those men with time!

What do you enjoy doing outside of ‘the office’?

Outside of the office, I enjoy reading science fiction, climbing, and spending time with my family.

Share a ‘fun fact’ about yourself!     

My favorite series is Red Rising by author Pierce Brown.

If you were describing your job to a five-year-old, what would you say you do at work?

To describe my job more simply, I’d say that I am part of a team that is helping couples who are struggling to have children make that hope a reality.