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Graduate Student Katherine Snazel Inspired to Study Indigenous Perspectives

Graduate Student Katherine Snazel Inspired to Study Indigenous Perspectives

※University, to me, is not about learning what you want to do, but rather who you want to be§

August 14, 2024 每 Mature Student, Katherine Snazel, is approaching the end of her Master's of Indigenous Relations program, which has been both a pursuit of new knowledge and a journey of personal growth.

After a career as a legal assistant in York Region , and life-long commitment to working as a figure skating coach, Katherine made the decision to attend university for the first time. Through coaching, Katherine was introduced to the idea of pursuing postsecondary studies at Laurentian.

※One of the skaters that I was working with was attending Laurentian, and he was sharing incredible stories and interesting learning experiences,§ Katherine recalls. ※It inspired me to look into the possibility for myself.§

At 60 years old, Katherine began her Bachelor's of Sociology online. Through that program, she became interested in further exploring Indigenous cultures. After completing her undergraduate degree with honours, she decided she would continue her academic journey with a master＊s program, making Indigenous perspectives her area of focus. She describes her decision to commit to her master＊s as an unexpected leap of faith.

※University, to me, is not about learning what you want to do, but rather who you want to be,§ Katherine says. ※Throughout life, I＊ve found that I have continued to grow and learn who I want to be. I see my Master＊s of Indigenous Relations as a reflection of that journey.§

Katherine narrowed in on Indigenous storytelling, studying 14 different Indigenous stories from Turtle Island. From newer reads like Waubgeshig Rice's Moon of the Crusted Snow to veteran author Thomson Highway's, The Kiss of the Fur Queen, Katherine dove into titles that would challenge her Western understanding. She aimed to learn more about Indigenous perspectives through storytelling and to develop her Two-Eyed Seeing perspective (the concept of applying both an Indigenous and Western lens to understanding issues for the benefit of all). As a non-Indigenous person, her undergraduate classes pushed her to realize that her previous education had lacked inclusion of Indigenous voices while her graduate program brought her deeper understanding.

※My time at Laurentian has expanded my thinking as a whole, my critical thinking, and my understanding of social justice. I＊m still navigating where this degree might take me career-wise, because while I have so many ideas and further interests, I＊m currently more focused on enjoying the process of learning.§

Katherine appreciated Laurentian＊s small class sizes, saying they have allowed her to build connections with other students and professors. She describes finding ※really amazing people, young and old, in the Laurentian community,§ and feeling welcomed by all. Having moved to Sudbury for her master＊s, she fell in love with the area and now plans to put down roots and stay long-term.

Katherine sees herself working with young people again in the future. For now, her path remains unwritten though she hopes to take the PhD in Human Studies and Interdisciplinary program next. Katherine will defend her master＊s thesis on August 23rd, 2024.

Series: Undergraduate Student Research Awards Recipients

Series: Undergraduate Student Research Awards Recipients

August 7, 2024 - This summer, twenty-two students have the opportunity to support research projects through 51勛圖app with funding provided by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC).

Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRAs) are meant to nurture interest among undergraduate students and develop their potential for a research career. This funding provides students with research work experience that complements their studies in an academic setting.

Students support research for a period of 16 weeks, on a full-time basis, from May to August. Students can hold one USRA per fiscal year but can hold up to three USRAs throughout their undergraduate career.

Getting the opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way to a research project is often reserved for graduate students. USRAs grant a unique and coveted opportunity to undergraduate students to get experience in their field of interest. The students＊ year of study, major, and areas of research vary but they all similarly demonstrate the positive impact that this opportunity has on their current studies and future goals.

Throughout the summer the students will share, in their own words, about themselves, their ambitions, their interests, and a little about the research project they are supporting.

Kate Pappin

4th year Biology at 51勛圖app

Hometown: Sudbury, Ontario

High school: St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School

I am incredibly passionate about environmental science and I am super excited to share a bit about myself and the research I＊m taking part in this summer. I have been working out of the Vale Living with Lakes Centre (VLWLC) with my supervisor Dr. Brie Edwards, a Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks scientist. As part of her job, Dr. Edwards manages the long-term monitoring program of several acid damaged lakes in and around the Sudbury region.

To help support this project, it is my job to collect water chemistry samples, conduct kick and sweep surveys for benthic invertebrates (like the cute crayfish in my picture!), and do the prep work and data management that goes along with it. I have also been fortunate enough to tag along with other crews from the Ministry of Natural Resources and other universities to aid in similar work. I feel very lucky to be in my position, and I intend on continuing with graduate studies at VLWLC after I complete my undergraduate thesis.

Jazmin Fergani

4th year Biochemistry at 51勛圖app

Hometown: Sudbury, Ontario

High school: Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School

I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from amazing mentors, gaining valuable research skills and insights into future research career opportunities. Mining has been a large part of Sudbury＊s history and through my USRA project, supervised by Dr. Nadia Mykytczuk, I am able to learn more about the implications the mining industry has had on my community.

My USRA project at MIRARCO supports the development and optimization of bioleaching technologies, addressing the growing demand for critical minerals with alternative sources like mine wastes. Contributing to such a large scale project has given me opportunities to engage with influential figures such as Ontario＊s Minister of Mines, George Pirie, and Canada＊s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Jonathan Wilkinson.

Throughout the summer I am responsible for maintaining microbial cultures sourced from mine wastes, by adjusting their conditions, and providing them with essential nutrients for the leaching process. In this process, I am also responsible for extracting microbial DNA to analyze their sequences and identify which bacterial species are present at different stages of the reaction.

Outside of my studies, I enjoy spending time outdoors with friends and family, whether on the lake or exploring Sudbury, my hometown.

McKinley Broomhead

3rd year student in Health Sciences at Queen＊s University

Hometown: Lively, Ontario

High school: Lively District Secondary School (LDSS)

As a research assistant at the (CROSH) at 51勛圖app, my work focuses on preventing heat-related illnesses (HRI) in the workplace through the use of wearable technology. The projects I am involved in, under the guidance of Dr. Sandra Dorman, include, "A Field Application of a Novel Wearable Technology as a Component of a Heat Illness Prevention Plan Amongst Wildland Firefighters" and "An Evaluation of a Novel Wearable Technology for the Prevention of Heat Strain". My work on this research project is an opportunity to build on the experience I gained when working with Dr. Vince DePaul at Queen's University on the OASIS Research Team and my contributions to the Markerless Motion Capture Project.

My academic interests are centered on public health. My favourite courses so far have been ones that helped me understand global and population health and developing health programming. In my free time, I enjoy various physical activities such as weightlifting, hockey, and tennis.

Jos谷e McDavid

4th year Biomedical Biology at 51勛圖app

Hometown: Sudbury, Ontario

High school: ?cole secondaire catholique l＊Horizon

I am grateful to have been given the opportunity to work under the supervision of at NOSM U over the course of this summer. In only a short amount of time I have been able to develop various new skills on molecular biology techniques. These techniques vary from cell culture work to cloning small DNA molecules containing a specific gene.

My summer project is focused on the gene coding for the enzyme retinol saturase (RetSat). Altered levels of RetSat have been linked to insulin resistance, autoimmunity, and dyslipidemia in patients and animal models, though the biochemical basis is unknown. This research aims to clarify RetSat＊s role and the biological processes involved in hypoxia adaptation.

Through my work as a USRA I have also been given various opportunities for career development and networking with experts in the field of research. In June I attended the Northern Health Research Conference at NOSM U where I was able to learn more about the amazing research that is being conducted here in the North. I am also incredibly grateful to have attended the International Retinoid Conference held in Saint Paul, Minnesota this July, where I had the opportunity to attend various talks from experts in the field of Vitamin A.

Series: Undergraduate Student Research Awards Recipients

Series: Undergraduate Student Research Awards Recipients

August 1, 2024 - This summer, twenty-two students have the opportunity to support research projects through 51勛圖app with funding provided by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC).

Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRAs) are meant to nurture interest among undergraduate students and develop their potential for a research career. This funding provides students with research work experience that complements their studies in an academic setting.

Students support research for a period of 16 weeks, on a full-time basis, from May to August. Students can hold one USRA per fiscal year but can hold up to three USRAs throughout their undergraduate career.

Getting the opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way to a research project is often reserved for graduate students. USRAs grant a unique and coveted opportunity to undergraduate students to get experience in their field of interest. The students＊ year of study, major, and areas of research vary but they all similarly demonstrate the positive impact that this opportunity has on their current studies and future goals.

Throughout the summer the students will share, in their own words, about themselves, their ambitions, their interests, and a little about the research project they are supporting.

Kailey Beggs

3rd year of Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology at 51勛圖app

Hometown: Val Caron, Ontario

High School: Confederation Secondary School

This summer, I was offered the opportunity to work with the through my USRA. I am excited to be gaining practical experience in the field of research, working on many projects that are all in different stages. Surprisingly, I have learned more about statistics through CROSH than I did in my intro to stats course. Who knew I would be using stats again! In the future, I hope to use all the knowledge and skills I am gaining from CROSH and my program (Kinesiology) to pursue postgraduate education and eventually achieve a career in healthcare.

Currently, I am involved in several projects at CROSH, but the one that is most exciting to me is the Air Quality Index (AQI) Interventions project with Dr. Alison Godwin. In this project, I am researching how people interact and interpret AQI data with a goal to improve public awareness about air pollution and associated health risks. My favourite topic to learn about is human physiology. I find it fascinating to understand how the body works, by understanding metabolism or examining movement patterns to prevent injuries and enhance biomechanics. Outside of school, I love running, going to the gym, walking my dog Hershey, and diving into a good book! A big part of my life is also volunteering and working.

Dulain Abeyratne

4th year Biomedical Biology at 51勛圖app

Hometown: Sudbury, Ontario

High school: Lockerby Composite School

This is my second summer of research under the supervision of Dr. Stefan Siemann. Currently, I am supporting a project that focuses on the effects of metal exchange and the removal of zinc from a group of metal-containing enzymes. Specifically, we are investigating how this metal exchange impacts the enzyme activity. My time working as a research assistant has not only given me hands-on laboratory experience but has sparked an interest in the field of research. I hope to pursue a career in medicine, and I am confident that the skills I learn through this USRA-funded opportunity will positively impact my future goals.

In my free time, I enjoy running, playing basketball, and spending time with friends and family! I also spend time volunteering with different organizations including the YMCA of Northeastern Ontario and St. Joseph＊s Continuing Care Center.

Olivia Norman

4th year Biomedical Biology at 51勛圖app

Hometown: Ottawa, Ontario

High school: Glebe Collegiate Institute

Originally from Ottawa, I was drawn to 51勛圖app by its varsity nordic ski team, incredible outdoor access, and smaller class sizes. Because Laurentian is a relatively small university, undergraduate students are provided with more laboratory experience than is often available at larger institutions. This experience built foundational skills I was able to transfer to research in a professional laboratory setting. This summer I received a USRA, which has provided me with the opportunity to work hands-on at NOSM U＊s biomedical research laboratory in Sudbury. Co-supervised by and , my research digs into the genetics underlying the function of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the human body. NAChRs are found in many cell types around the body, including immune cells. Building on previous research by Dr. Simard and his team, I hope to uncover more about the involvement of nAChRs in the inflammatory response triggered by the immune system.

Camden Babin

3rd Year Software Engineering at the University of Alberta (U of A)

Hometown: Hanmer, Ontario

High school: Bishop Alexander Carter C.S.S

Before my studies at the U of A, I had a burning interest in all areas of STEM and had no idea where it would take me. It wasn＊t until my general first-year programming class that I found my passion for computer science in engineering. Given the opportunity to work with CROSH at Laurentian this summer, I am most interested in the exposure to the use of microelectronics within the research and occupational health and safety fields. So far, I've seen how microelectronics such as accelerometers and low-cost Air Quality Index sensors communicate with larger computer systems to collect, store and process data securely. I look forward to learning about the research process and research-based practices, and how it relates to various engineering processes.

This summer I will be working closely on a project that facilitates community engagement with local air quality tools to assist in health-related decision-making, as well as taking every opportunity to aid in the technological side of other projects. I think what ties engineering, research, and occupational health and safety (OHS) all together is the desire we all have to problem-solve and improve the quality of life of others. I look forward to applying my passion to explore the intersection of technology and occupational health and safety at CROSH, contributing to projects that improve our community through innovative research.

51勛圖app Alumnus Lance Cryderman Prepares for Paris 2024 Paralympics

51勛圖app Alumnus Lance Cryderman Prepares for Paris 2024 Paralympics

Accessibility Advisor proves as exceptional role model

July 25, 2024 - Lance Cryderman, an alumnus and staff member of 51勛圖app, is gearing up for the Paris 2024 Summer Paralympic Games. The Games are the culmination of a six-year journey marked by determination and dedication as he manages the rigorous demands of training and competition alongside his responsibilities at home and work.

Lance got involved in boccia while attending high school at Lockerby Composite School but it wasn＊t until after high school that he started competing professionally. After a few years, he took a pause to focus on post-secondary and start a family. He earned both an undergraduate degree in Psychology and a Master＊s in Business Administration at Laurentian. For the past six years, he has been an Accessibility Advisor at 51勛圖app. He returned to boccia around the same time, approaching competition seriously and quickly rising to an international level.

When he returned to the sport in 2017 he knew that Tokyo 2020 would be a tight timeline but set his sights on Paris 2024. Now Lance has qualified to compete in the BC 1 category of men＊s individual boccia.

※For any boccia player competing at the international level, the Paralympics is the pinnacle of our sport,§ Lance says. ※Preparing for it is intense but it is completely worth it and I am incredibly proud to represent Canada at the Paralympic Games.§

Lance dedicates 10-12 hours each week to honing his skills both on and off the court. His rigorous training regimen includes mental preparation with a sports psychologist, strategic sessions with his coach, meticulous analysis of game footage, and at least eight hours of throwing time a week.

Balancing these demands alongside his professional responsibilities and family commitments has been challenging, but Lance attributes his success to his unwavering support system, which he affectionately calls his "Success Army." This team includes his practice partner, performance partner, coach, as well as friends, family, colleagues, and his wife Danielle, whose support and involvement in every decision are invaluable.

※Striking a balance between work, family, and boccia is challenging,§ Lance says. ※I＊m grateful that everyone in my life is extremely supportive. My colleagues are happy to see me succeed and I＊m deeply grateful for their help supporting my students during this crucial time. Their encouragement and collaboration serve as a powerful example for the students we work with.§

Lance hopes to come home from Paris with Gold. Looking beyond Paris 2024, Lance is not sure what the future holds and remains open to all potential opportunities. His main goal will always be to inspire others to pursue their dreams. He believes his journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and support in achieving goals, saying, "If I＊m able to do all this, what＊s stopping you?"

As Lance heads to Paris to represent Canada, his story resonates as a testament to the triumph of community, passion, and hard work.

Series: Undergraduate Student Research Awards Recipients

Series: Undergraduate Student Research Awards Recipients

July 19, 2024 - This summer, twenty-two students have the opportunity to support research projects through 51勛圖app with funding provided by Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC). Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRAs) are meant to nurture interest among undergraduate students and develop their potential for a research career. This funding provides students with research work experience that complements their studies in an academic setting.

Students support research for a period of 16 weeks, on a full-time basis, from May to August. Students can hold one USRA per fiscal year but can hold up to three USRAs throughout their undergraduate career.

Getting the opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way to a research project is often reserved for graduate students. USRAs grant a unique and coveted opportunity to undergraduate students to get experience in their field of interest. The students＊ year of study, major, and areas of research vary but they all similarly demonstrate the positive impact that this opportunity has on their current studies and future goals.

Throughout the summer the students will share in their own words about their ambitions, their interests, and a little about the research project they are supporting.

Emma Mageau

4th year Biomedical Biology at 51勛圖app

Hometown: Sudbury, Ontario

High school: Confederation Secondary School

This summer I am working under on his radiation resistant breast cancer project at NOSM University. Within this project we are researching some targets believed to be associated with radiation resistance in a specific breast cancer cell line. While I have always had a passion for science, I found I was lacking research experience, so this opportunity has been an amazing way to expand my knowledge and skills in the lab.

In my spare time, I enjoy playing soccer and tennis and spending time with family and friends. I also help run Relay for Life at Laurentian which is a huge passion of mine. I hope to one day pursue a career in medicine, and the field of oncology has always been an interest of mine. I am excited to see where this research and academic year takes me!

Avery Morin

4th year Behavioural Neuroscience at 51勛圖app

Hometown: Sudbury, Ontario

High school: Marymount Academy

Through USRA I get to support my passion for ecology and sustainability, exploring an entirely different field than I do in the classroom as a Behavioural Neuroscience student. At the Vale Living with Lakes Centre, I lead Laurentian＊s Environmental Sustainability Committee and take part in the global Nature Positive Student Ambassador program. As a part of this initiative, institutions must complete baseline biodiversity assessments which have been ongoing since 2023. This summer, I am working with Dr. John Gunn on understanding wetland biodiversity by installing bird and frog call recorders throughout the Laurentian Greenspace. This project will not only contribute to Nature Positive biodiversity assessments but will also be used to support a multi university project focused on the restoration of peatlands after pollution from mining activities.

Anyone can get involved in supporting biodiversity assessments through citizen science using the app iNaturalist where all observations of plants, animals and insects taken on our campus will automatically be added to Laurentian＊s Campus Biodiversity Network project to contribute to real scientific datasets.

Ellis Albrecht

4th year Biomedical Biology at 51勛圖app

Hometown: Onaping, Ontario

High school: Chelmsford Valley District Composite School

This summer, through the USRA program, I have the pleasure of working with Dr. Brie Edwards, based at the Vale Living with Lakes Centre (VLWLC). As a student researcher, I am responsible for collecting water and invertebrate samples, preparing equipment for field work, and conducting data entry and analysis. The cooperative nature of the VLWLC has also provided me with the opportunity to observe and assist with other ongoing projects.

Growing up in Greater Sudbury I have always had a deep appreciation for our natural world and I feel incredibly fortunate to work on these beautiful bodies of water. This position has enabled me to practice my hobbies (boating, paddling, hiking) while witnessing and participating in the work that goes into restoring, maintaining, and monitoring our freshwater systems.

Alexandra Bertrim

3rd year Human Kinetics at the University of Guelph

Hometown: Sudbury, Ontario

High School: Lo-ellen Park Secondary School

This summer, I am working as an undergraduate research assistant at the (CROSH) at 51勛圖app. Through my work at CROSH, I hope to gain insightful research experience and apply my academic knowledge to real and practical situations to enhance workplace health and safety. I am currently assisting with a handful of projects, including a seat adjustment training program. The initiative focuses on reducing workplace injuries by giving heavy equipment operators a program to help them use good ergonomic practices.

I am also involved in the analysis of data entries related to simulation and mining operations training. With this analysis, CROSH hopes to assess efficacy and worker satisfaction around simulation training programs. The programs are a revolutionized training method that allows trainees to practice their skills safely in preparation for work in the field. My hands-on experience with CROSH has so far allowed me to gain a greater appreciation and understanding of the importance of occupational health and safety. I am eager to continue working in this field, hopeful that my efforts will help contribute to safer and healthier workplaces.

As a dedicated member of the Gryphons varsity swim team, I am driven to excel in the pool, as well as in the classroom, where I have strong academic interests in the fields of biomechanics, human physiology, and anatomy.

51勛圖app Receives Funding from the Province to Enhance STEM Education

51勛圖app Receives Funding from the Province to Enhance STEM Education

Funds to support purchase of leading-edge equipment

July 17, 2024 每 51勛圖app is pleased to announce a significant investment of $2.17 million associated with the Ontario＊s Training Equipment and Renewal Fund. This is a matching funding program to help universities renew and buy modern, state-of-the-art equipment and learning resources to enable high quality hands-on experiences.

These funds will support the establishment of a centralized hub for the hands-on training of students in STEM programs at 51勛圖app. Located in the Perdue Analytical Facility on the Laurentian campus, this hub will integrate three key elements:

1. a molecular analysis and characterization instrumentation core

2. a virtual reality laboratory

3. a multimedia laboratory for science communication

Integrating these elements in a single physical space will transform experiential, online and micro-credential learning experiences in STEM. The STEM hub will provide novel training opportunities to prepare students in a key employment growth sector in Ontario.

Dr. Eric Gauthier, the lead on this transformative project and Director for the School of Natural Sciences, highlights the positive impact on students and the broader community: "We are thrilled to receive this grant. This facility will provide students with modern scientific instruments, easing their transition to the job market. Our new Virtual Reality lab will introduce innovative teaching methods and enhance learning. Regional scientists and companies will use the VR lab to solve real-world problems. The multimedia lab will help scientists communicate their results and deliver course content, including microcredentials. This hub will foster collaborations among post-secondary institutions, science institutes, and tech-driven companies."

Dr. Brenda Brouwer, Interim Provost and Vice-President Academic, also shared her enthusiasm for the project: "This is a great news story and achievement made possible through the efforts of creative faculty with a shared vision of what next-gen teaching in STEM can be. We are grateful to the Ontario Government for investing and making this vision a reality."

The new STEM hub will transform experiential, online, and micro-credential learning experiences, providing novel training opportunities and preparing students for careers in a key employment growth sector in Ontario. 51勛圖app remains committed to advancing education and fostering innovation through such impactful initiatives.

51勛圖app Appoints Dr. Jennifer Scott as Dean of the Faculty of Education and Health

51勛圖app Appoints Dr. Jennifer Scott as Dean of the Faculty of Education and Health

Dr. Scott to begin role on September 1, 2024.

July 16, 2024 每 51勛圖app is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Jennifer Scott as the Dean of the Faculty of Education and Health. Dr. Scott is described as a compassionate and inclusive leader with a strong commitment to student success, the quality of the student learning experience, and supporting new initiatives that promote excellence in teaching, learning, and research.

An alumna of 51勛圖app, Dr. Scott earned her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the university before completing her PhD in Chemistry at the University of Ottawa. Dr. Scott joined the faculty at the Royal Military College of Canada (RMC) in Kingston in 2008 as an assistant professor and was promoted to associate professor in 2015. She currently serves as Dean of Science with administrative responsibility for academic programming including accreditations and quality assurance, resource management, and cultivating an environment where students, staff, and faculty are valued and supported in their pursuits.

※I＊m very much looking forward to returning to 51勛圖app. It holds a special place in my heart and I＊m humbled to be able to play a part in supporting the growth and development of students through education and programming that are relevant to our communities locally and regionally§ said Dr. Scott.

Throughout her career, Dr. Scott has demonstrated a passion for teaching and research. In 2017 she received the ※Class of 1965 Teaching Excellence Award§ in recognition of her dedication to STEM education and mentoring graduate students. As an academic administrator she continues to pursue new initiatives that advance the impact of education in society.

Dr. Scott is fluent in both official languages and highly values and respects Laurentian＊s tricultural mandate. Her commitment to inclusivity and addressing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission＊s recommendations is evident through her role on the Steering Committee of the Indigenous Leadership Opportunity Year Program at RMC. In addition, she is focused on the Indigenization of the curriculum and creating spaces for inclusive cultural practices within the institution.

Dr. Scott＊s leadership qualities, transparent and clear communication combined with her extensive experience in higher education and creative, innovative thinking position her well to lead the Faculty of Education and Health into a strong, vibrant future.

51勛圖app thanks Dr. Patrice Milewski for his significant contributions as Interim Dean. Dr. Jennifer Scott will begin her role as Dean of the Faculty of Education and Health on September 1, 2024.

Dr. Alain Simard named Dean of Graduate Studies and International at 51勛圖app

Dr. Alain Simard named Dean of Graduate Studies and International at 51勛圖app

Dr. Simard to begin role on September 1, 2024.

July 15, 2024 〞 Dr. Alain Simard has been named the Dean of Graduate Studies and International. Dr. Simard, an alumnus of 51勛圖app, brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to academic excellence and community engagement.

Dr. Simard earned both his Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and his Master of Science in Chemistry from 51勛圖app. He then completed his PhD in Physiology-Endocrinology at the Universit谷 Laval and held post-doctoral fellowships in the United States.

"I am pleased to return to 51勛圖app as Dean of Graduate Studies and International," said Dr. Simard. "I believe that Laurentian offers students an ideal environment for advanced learning and I look forward to working collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students to foster an environment where all feel supported and empowered to achieve their full potential."

Prior to returning to Northern Ontario, he served as assistant professor and later associate professor at the Universit谷 de Moncton in New Brunswick from 2011 to 2017, where he contributed to the D谷partement de Chimie et Biochimie and the Centre de Formation M谷dicale du Nouveau-Brunswick. Dr. Simard then accepted an associate professor position at NOSM University in the Division of Medical Sciences in 2017. Since 2020, he has been the Assistant Dean of Graduate Studies at NOSM University and was promoted to full professor on July 1st, 2024.

Dr. Simard has been actively involved on several committees over the years and is a member of the Ontario Council of Graduate Studies. He serves as chair of the Graduate Studies Committee and chair of Masters of Medical Studies Program Committee at NOSM University. He also served as a member of the Research Committee at NOSM University and previously the Graduate Studies Council at 51勛圖app and the Graduate studies committee, PhD in Life Sciences at Universit谷 de Moncton.

With over 35 published refereed papers since 2001 and supervision of more than 30 students at all academic levels, Dr. Simard has demonstrated dedication to scholarly pursuits and student mentorship. He is also a strong advocate for developing strong international partnerships that promote opportunities for graduate students, research collaborations and serve to enrich learning and understanding.

Dr. Simard＊s understanding of the graduate studies landscape in Ontario, his solution driven approach, collaborative demeanor, and commitment to 51勛圖app＊s tri-cultural mandate will position him well to successfully lead this new portfolio.

Dr. Simard will assume his new role as Dean of Graduate Studies and International on September 1, 2024.

51勛圖app and Staff Union Ratify Collective Agreement

51勛圖app and Staff Union Ratify Collective Agreement

Collective agreement spans 3 years

July 12, 2024 - The 51勛圖app Staff Union (LUSU) and 51勛圖app＊s Board of Governors have voted to ratify a new three year collective agreement. The agreement will be in place until June 30, 2027.

The agreement will see LUSU members receiving annual salary increases of 4%, as of July 1, 2024. A copy of the agreement will be shared on laurentian.ca once finalized.

※This agreement marks a key step in Laurentian＊s recovery, enabling us to move forward in a positive way with the execution of our new strategic plan. We are thankful for the work of both bargaining committees and are now focused on delivering a dynamic student experience this fall,§ said Dr. Lynn Wells, 51勛圖app President and Vice-Chancellor.

"With the ratification of a new collective agreement, we are now able to redirect all our attention towards providing support to students, in both their academic and research goals,§ said Tom Fenske, President of LUSU.

LUSU represents approximately 230 staff members at 51勛圖app.

Series: Undergraduate Student Research Awards Recipients

Series: Undergraduate Student Research Awards Recipients

July 10, 2024 - This summer, twenty-two students have the opportunity to support research projects through 51勛圖app with funding provided by Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC).

Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRAs) are meant to nurture interest among undergraduate students and develop their potential for a research career. This funding provides students with research work experience that complements their studies in an academic setting.

Students support research for a period of 16 weeks, on a full-time basis, from May to August. Students can hold one USRA per fiscal year but can hold up to three USRAs throughout their undergraduate career.

Getting the opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way to a research project is often reserved for graduate students. USRAs grant a unique and coveted opportunity to undergraduate students to get experience in their field of interest. The students＊ year of study, major, and areas of research vary but they all similarly demonstrate the positive impact that this opportunity has on their current studies and future goals.

Throughout the summer the students will share in their own words about their ambitions, their interests, and a little about the research project they are supporting.

MacKenzie Hobbs

4th year Biology with a Minor in Environmental Chemistry at 51勛圖app

Hometown: Espanola, Ontario

High school: ?cole secondaire catholique La Renaissance

I grew up in Massey and spent many summers at my camp on Whiskey Lake where I developed a profound appreciation of and love for nature. I enjoy kayaking, camping, and hiking during the summer. I＊m deeply passionate about the natural world and the urgent need for conservation efforts. Over the past three summers I＊ve been given incredible opportunities as a USRA student with the Spiers Research Team at Laurentian. I＊ve gained invaluable experience and knowledge, and I have enjoyed every minute of it. I plan to pursue a Master＊s in Biology, with aspirations to one day conduct my own research in the field of environmental science.

The title of the research project I＊m currently working on is ※Elemental Content of Country Foods Growing on Smelter Impacted Landscapes§. We are looking to understand if our food here in Greater Sudbury is different as a result of the industrial past. To do this, we are collecting fiddleheads, blueberries, and various species of mushrooms throughout the summer to digest and analyze for metal and nutrient levels. Additionally, we will collect and analyze the same foods from local markets and grocery stores to compare locally farmed foods and internationally sourced foods with the wild samples collected locally.

Konan Blaise Koko

4th year Biochemistry at 51勛圖app

Hometown: Cote d＊Ivoire

I graduated from the Biochemistry program in June and am currently working on my second USRA. In my spare time, I love cross country skiing and adaptive rowing. For me, these are the best sports to allow me to stay healthy for hard work at school.

USRA played a significant role in shaping my future career goals and aspirations.The first one allowed me to work in a laboratory at the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, where I was involved in a cutting-edge study on protein expression using a heterologous bacterial system. This hands-on experience enhanced my understanding of molecular biology principles and techniques, and my analytical skills.

My current USRA involves working in a genetics laboratory with Dr. Thomas Merritt at 51勛圖app where I delve into the intriguing world of genetics regulation. I actively contribute to experiments involving the exploration of the genetic response to environmental toxins (Nickel) in the gene expression in Drosophila melanogaster. This experience has not only enhanced my laboratory skills but also sparked my curiosity about the potential of genetics molecular biology studies. I am thankful this most recent opportunity gave me the chance to join a laboratory that I would like to continue working with throughout my graduate study.

My experiences in molecular biology laboratories through my time in the USRA program have had a transformative effect on my career goals and aspirations. They enhanced my understanding of molecular biology and sparked my passion for medicine. My ultimate goal is to attend medical school.

Asma Bilgasem

4th year Interdisciplinary Science at 51勛圖app

Hometown: Sudbury, Ontario

High school: Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School

I have just completed a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Science from 51勛圖app and will be attending the University of Toronto to pursue a medical degree in the fall. I＊m very passionate about community health and have led events such as Wear Red Canada Sudbury and Hoops for Men＊s Mental Health. In my spare time, I love going to the gym, trying new coffee shops, and spending quality time with friends and family.

I＊m currently working on an antifungal project under the supervision of Dr. Sujeenthar Tharmalingam at NOSM University. The aim of this project is to develop a rapid point-of-care suitable for the needs of individual patients to detect antifungal resistance to manage infections. I'm extremely grateful for the opportunity to learn in a hands-on environment within a collaborative team of scientists while contributing to cutting-edge scientific research. Looking forward, I hope to bring the skills and knowledge I＊ve gained through USRA to wherever my professional career takes me.

Noah Fenlon

4th year Astrophysics at McMaster University

Hometown: Toronto, Ontario

High school: Western Technical Commercial School

I＊ve always been captivated by space and the vastness of the universe. I consider astronomers to be modern-day explorers, and exploring more of the universe is my dream and ultimate career goal. I proudly consider myself a nerd, and I love playing board games and card games with friends. I also love hiking, biking, and getting outside.

This summer, I was privileged to accept a USRA from 51勛圖app for my research. I am working at SNOLAB, a dark matter and neutrino research lab just outside of Sudbury. To block cosmic rays, the main lab is located 6,800 feet underground in a mine! I am part of the SNO+ detector team, working on calibration for an external source and for supernovae in our galaxy. I have found this work very interesting and exciting. I＊ve learned so much already, and it＊s such a great experience to be working here.

Pictured above from left to right: MacKenzie Hobbs, Konan Blaise Koko, Asma Bilgasem, Noah Fenlon

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