Smith, Ashley, PhD

Ashley Smith is a Research Scientist I in the laboratory of Dr. Bill Chen at the Medical College of Wisconsin. She earned her Ph.D. in molecular genetics from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee. Dr. Smith has broad experience across diverse model systems and brings particular expertise as a molecular geneticist, combining advanced molecular biology techniques with high-resolution microscopy. Her background spans developmental biology and disease modeling, including work in plant, microbial, and mammalian systems, with a focus on pathways regulating reproductive development and sterility.

Additionally, Dr. Smith contributed to research on sickle cell disease, where she investigates liver injury and immune dysfunction using humanized mouse models. She also has extensive experience in higher education, having taught a wide range of biology, genetics, and microbiology courses and mentored student researchers at both undergraduate and graduate levels.

Her current research involves utilizing spleen-derived organoid systems (splenoids) to study immune responses in vitro, with the goal of improving the design and evaluation of vaccines and immunotherapies. By applying platforms that better reflect human immune behavior, she hopes to support the development of more effective treatments.

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her human and fur family, traveling to state and national parks, baking, and gardening.