Understanding the Journey: Catherine Demery's Path to Addiction Science
- Dr. GPCR Podcast
- Aug 21
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 1
What happens when the career you planned no longer feels right?
For Catherine Demery, it meant rewriting everything on her own terms. She entered undergrad set on becoming a pharmacist. After excelling in the PCAT and gaining admission to pharmacy school at the University of Michigan, it seemed like her path was locked in.
But something shifted.
“I kind of had an identity crisis because I think I realized in that moment that I didn't want to be a pharmacist but I had tailored four years of my life to doing so."
Two weeks before orientation, Catherine deferred her acceptance. It was a bold, uncertain move—but one that became the catalyst for a new trajectory. She found herself drawn toward the science behind the drugs, rather than their clinical application. That insight eventually led her into industry.
Learning the Lab, Learning Herself
During her time at the contract research organization (CRO) in Ann Arbor, Catherine was immersed in analytical work under stringent GLP/GMP standards. It was here that the disciplined structure of industry science helped her re-find purpose and build confidence for what came next.
“This wasn’t with much foresight for a couple years down the road. It was mostly just because, I need to be back in the lab.”
In that environment, every project brought new challenges—deadlines, documentation, and deliverables for paying clients. Catherine’s methodical retention of those skills later gave her a solid foundation in her academic work, even when expectations were looser in academia.
The Spark of Addiction Science
After two years in industry, Catherine enrolled in a master’s program in pharmacogenomics at Manchester University. There, she chose to write a review on genetic variation in susceptibility to alcoholism and opioid addiction—a decision that would reshape her academic ambitions.
“...I had a light bulb moment where I felt for the first time in my life, I understood why people pursued a PhD. I was staying up super late. I was excited to work on this, till 2 or 3 a.m.”
That project was her lightbulb moment. She finally understood what it meant to be driven by a research question, not just assigned to one. For the first time, she saw herself as a future researcher, not just a technician or a student.
A Detour Through Immunology
Her growing interest in addiction led her to the NIH’s Perinatology Research Branch in Detroit. While her work there focused on immunological changes in pregnancy—not addiction—it was a valuable chapter. She gained exposure to in vivo models, immunology, and complex study design, while also getting closer to patient-centered research.
“It really forced me to kind of patch up all my immunology holes and then apply them. I came away from that job with just a whole new appreciation for immunology and for pregnancy. It was really, really fascinating… and just eye opening to a part of the world that I don’t think I would have put that much thought into ever again.”
This experience sharpened her conceptual range and prepared her for the next step.
Returning to the Opioid Questions That Mattered
Now, as a PhD candidate in the Traynor and Anand labs at the University of Michigan, Catherine is focused on the mechanisms of opioid-induced respiratory depression, particularly involving fentanyl and xylazine.
Her current work examines how these substances, when used alone or together, impair breathing in mice. She uses whole-body plethysmography and pulse oximetry to dissect the specific ways these drugs impact the respiratory cycle. It’s rigorous pharmacology, but deeply tied to urgent public health needs. And it’s also deeply personal.
"I've always been really passionate and somewhat sensitive to people who struggle with opioid abuse. I had a few friends who became addicted and, really sadly, many of whom actually passed away as a result of an overdose. And so, that certainly shaped my interests and passions as a scientist."
What Can You Learn from Catherine’s Story?
A career pivot is not a failure—it’s a refined strategy.
Industry can build skills that academia often overlooks.
Your passion might not come first—it might come from doing the work.
The most impactful science is often personal.
Technical discipline is transferable—even across research cultures.
The Importance of Passion in Research
Catherine's journey highlights the importance of passion in research. It is not just about following a predetermined path; it is about discovering what truly drives you. Passion can lead to groundbreaking discoveries and a fulfilling career.
When you find something that excites you, it can transform your work into a source of joy and motivation. Catherine's experience serves as a reminder that it is never too late to change direction and pursue what you love.
Embracing Change and Uncertainty
Change can be daunting, especially when it involves stepping away from a well-defined career path. However, embracing uncertainty can lead to unexpected opportunities. Catherine's decision to defer pharmacy school was a leap of faith that opened new doors.
In life and career, taking risks can lead to personal and professional growth. It is essential to remain open to new experiences and to trust your instincts. This mindset can lead to a more fulfilling and successful career.
Conclusion: A Journey of Self-Discovery
Catherine Demery's story is one of self-discovery and resilience. It shows that career paths can evolve, and that it is possible to find fulfillment in unexpected places. Her journey illustrates the power of following one's passion and the importance of being adaptable in the face of change.
In the end, it is about finding what resonates with you and pursuing it wholeheartedly. Catherine's experience serves as an inspiration for anyone considering a career change or seeking to align their work with their passions.
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