Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I was always interested in biology. I initially started in a pre-medical school program at the University of Calgary (similar to a biochemistry degree here). After receiving a summer research scholarship and working in a developmental biology lab, I decided to pursue graduate work instead. I met my supervisor, Dr. Michael Hynes, at a research open house at UCalgary. His research examined bacteria that enter into symbiotic relationships with legumes. As a result of that conversation, I did an MSc in bacterial genetics in his lab at UCalgary. I enjoyed the research; however, I taught as a graduate student and absolutely loved teaching. I was really inspired by the senior lab coordinator for the microbiology labs, Helen Ross, who taught and developed labs, and was a huge support and mentor to me as a graduate student instructor. I decided that was what I really wanted to do. Helen sent me a job posting for an instructor position (called Academic Assistant at the time) at the University of Lethbridge. I was so excited when I got the job.
How long have you been at ULethbridge, and what do you do here?
I have been here for almost 31 years. I have taught lectures in BIOL2000 (Principles of Genetics), Principles of Microbiology (BIOL3400) and Experimental Methods in Molecular and Cell biology (BIOL3210). More recently, my job is focused on teaching as well as coordination of the molecular and cellular biology labs in our junior core, meaning BIOL1010 (Principles of Cell Biology along with Dr. Tegan Barry) and BIOL2000. Coordination means working with graduate student instructors to help mentor them in their teaching journey. I prepare materials for teaching including notes, slides and assessments, as well as meeting with graduate student instructors regularly to talk about teaching and concerns. I teach labs in BIOL3400 where, in my favourite lab project this year, students are making kimchi then isolating and identifying some of the key bacteria. I also teach labs in BIOL3210 and have had students create 3-D scaffolds out of apple slices for culturing mammalian cells, or, this year, they used molecular techniques to identify sushi sold at local restaurants to see if there are any labelling discrepancies (hint, there are).
What's the best part of your job?
The students — both undergraduate and graduate students! Being part of their university experience is such a privilege. Having said that, my colleagues have also made this job special; they are a continuous source of inspiration. We support each other and it makes coming to work a pleasure.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Probably my favourite thing to do is to spend time camping with my family — my husband Peter Dibble (Chemistry and Biochemistry) and our teenagers. We have a fifth wheel and enjoy spending time exploring locally and in B.C., although a couple of summers ago, we camped our way to California and back with the trailer (and everyone was still on speaking terms when we returned). I play classical guitar and have played in a local ensemble. I like to read and enjoy going to the gym.