As a highly motivated fourth‑year Bachelor of Science (Honours) student, I have immersed myself in undergraduate research through hands-on experience, knowledge mobilization, and outreach.
My research journey began in May 2023 as a research assistant at Thompson Rivers University (TRU) under the guidance of Dr. Jonathan Van Hamme and Dr. Eric Bottos. Since then, I have been honoured to receive two NSERC Undergraduate Student Research Awards, enabling me to develop and implement techniques in molecular and microbial biology. This work contributed to two complete genome publications on the NCBI database. A directed study on developing and validating quantitative PCR assays to monitor genes potentially involved in perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) degradation by Gordonia sp. strain NB4‑1Y allowed me to merge my passions for research and the environment. I am extending this work through an honours project, which examines mRNA expression over time when NB4‑1Y is provided with various sulfur sources including PFAS.
I have shared my research findings at both national and local venues, including the 2025 Canadian Society of Microbiologists Conference in Montreal and the 2025 TRU Undergraduate Research Conference. Delivering poster and oral presentations to diverse audiences has strengthened my ability to communicate sophisticated scientific concepts in clear and engaging ways.
Beyond the lab, I have contributed extensively to science outreach through Genome BC’s GeneSkool, SHAD Canada, TRU’s Science Trajectory Ambassador and Mentorship Program (STAMP), and the TRU chemistry department. In my fourth year, I served as a Research Ambassador and Research Coach, connecting aspiring undergraduate students with research opportunities. The accumulation of these experiences has made it possible for me to foster a well rounded research career and encourage others to do the same.