OUR MISSION
The Metabolism Lab exists to empower the next generation of scientists, amplify emerging voices in STEM, and make research accessible, engaging, and meaningful for everyone. We turn complex findings into clear understanding, inspire curiosity, and provide the tools learners and the public need to grow, lead, and transform how science connects to society.
ABOUT THE FOUNDER
Hannah L. Waterman, Ph.D.
Hannah Waterman, PhD, never imagined becoming a scientist. Growing up in a small rural town in Washington, she had never met one. What began as a love for mathematics, science, and asking questions eventually became a career dedicated to understanding human metabolism and helping others discover opportunities they may never have known were possible.
She earned an Honors Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and Mathematics from Linfield University, where she discovered research for the first time and realized science was not about memorizing facts, but about asking questions no one had answered before. During her undergraduate training, she conducted research on regulation of the human PPARγ gene and gained industry experience at Precision Analytical Inc., experiences that laid the foundation for her career in metabolism and physiology.
Her passion for metabolism is deeply personal. After watching family members struggle with obesity and type 2 diabetes, Hannah became driven to understand the biology behind these diseases and how science could improve prevention, treatment, and quality of life. That question has guided her career ever since.
Hannah went on to earn her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Molecular Physiology and Biophysics from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, where she trained in the laboratory of Alan Cherrington, PhD. Her doctoral research investigated how insulin regulates hepatic glucose metabolism, integrating whole-body physiology with molecular biology to better understand metabolic adaptation. Today, she is a Postdoctoral Associate at the Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, where her research focuses on how pancreatic islet hormones regulate metabolism and contribute to metabolic health and type 2 diabetes.
Alongside her research, Hannah has remained deeply committed to education and mentorship. She holds a Certificate in College Teaching with specializations in STEM and online education and has spent years teaching, tutoring, and mentoring students from elementary school through graduate education. She believes meaningful mentorship can change the trajectory of a person's life because it changed hers.
The Metabolism Lab is a reflection of that belief. Throughout her own journey, teachers, coaches, mentors, and friends opened doors she never knew existed and encouraged her to pursue opportunities she never imagined possible. Through educational resources, mentorship, and science communication, she hopes to help others build confidence, discover new possibilities, and pursue their own academic and professional goals.
For Hannah, science is about far more than research. It is about curiosity, opportunity, and investing in people. Whether conducting research, mentoring a student, or creating educational resources, her goal is to leave people more curious, more confident, and better equipped than when they arrived.
"You cannot teach a person something he does not already know, you can only bring what he does know to his awareness."
-Galileo Galilei
OUR CORE VALUES
Curiosity
Every discovery begins with a question. We believe curiosity is the foundation of learning and encourage asking thoughtful questions, exploring new ideas, and challenging assumptions.
Evidence
Science should be accurate, transparent, and grounded in evidence. We are committed to communicating research responsibly while making complex topics understandable and accessible.
Education
Knowledge has the greatest impact when it is shared. We believe education should inspire confidence, encourage critical thinking, and empower people to continue learning throughout their lives.
Mentorship
Meaningful mentorship can change the course of a life. We strive to create opportunities, provide encouragement, and invest in others as they pursue their academic and professional goals.
Growth
Learning is a lifelong journey. We believe growth comes through perseverance, humility, and a willingness to embrace new challenges both inside and outside the classroom.
Community
Science is stronger when knowledge is shared. We believe in building an inclusive community where curiosity is welcomed, collaboration is encouraged, and every learner feels supported.
CONTACT US
We’d love to hear from you! Whether you have questions about research, want to share feedback, are interested in collaborating, or are looking for guidance on your scientific journey, you’ve come to the right place. Reach out and let’s start the conversation.