Magdaleena Mbadhi, MBBS, MMed

Magdaleena Mbadhi, MBBS, MMed

Postdoctoral Research Associate

I was born and raised in Namibia but moved to China to pursue my medical school education and postgraduate research training. I earned my medical degree (M.B.B.S) from Hubei University of Medicine (HBMU) in 2018, where my passion for medical research began as an undergraduate student researcher. After graduating, I joined Professor Jun-Ming Tang’s Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine lab at HBMU in 2019 to pursue my postgraduate research training. My graduate work focused on the epigenetic regulation of skeletal muscle development and regeneration, and I obtained my Master of Medicine degree (MMed) in 2022.

I became interested in applying my skills to women’s reproductive health science. This led me to Dr. Frolova’s lab, which specializes in studying dysfunctional uterine contractility for maternal health. I joined the lab as a postdoctoral researcher in 2023. My current research aims to understand the role and function of the bioactive lipid mediator, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), in myometrial contractility.


Outside the lab, I enjoy exploring St. Louis city. In the summer, you’ll often find me barbecuing with friends or exploring the city’s diverse cuisines. In the evenings, I love exploring art exhibits at the art museum and attending musicals at the theater.

Favorite thing about the Frolova lab: The fun, vibrant, and collaborative working environment. Additionally, Dr. Frolova is an incredible teacher and mentor from whom I enjoy learning from and working alongside.