What drew you to the RIC program?
The opportunities to conduct research as an undergraduate student and the option to complete an honour's thesis!
What did you enjoy most about BIOL 2001?
The thing I enjoyed most about BIOL 2001 was the chance to pursue research that I was genuinely passionate about. The course also helped me improve my public speaking skills drastically and provided me with a newfound sense of confidence in my research, writing and presenting abilities.
If you are a senior student in the program, what research have you engaged in? Tell us what you have enjoyed most about your project(s), including any cool findings!
My research has focused primarily on the effects of brominated flame retardants (BFRs) on fish. We discovered that the novel BFR, 1,2,5,6-Tetrabromocyclooctane (TBCO), impairs fish development and reproduction. What I have enjoyed most about my research, is being self-directed and ultimately determining where I want to take my project.
What have you enjoyed the most about the RIC program?
I have thoroughly enjoyed the friendships that I have made in the RIC and being a part of such a tight-knit group of like-minded students. I have also loved having the opportunity to present at conferences and publish my research!
What are you planning to do after university, and has the RIC program contributed to your career plans?
The RIC program has inspired me to pursue an MSc beginning next semester (Summer 2021). I am passionate about issues relating to the health of the natural environment and hope to one day pursue a career in environmental law. The opportunity to pursue research focused on aquatic ecotoxicology in Dr. Wiseman's lab has allowed me to pursue my passion for environmental toxicology and positioned me to realize my career goals.
Is there anyone who has had an important influence on your experience with the program? This can be a fellow student in the RIC program, a mentor, staff or faculty.
Dr. Elizabeth Schultz and Dr. Steve Wiseman have been incredible supervisors. They have supported me both as instructors of the RIC and research supervisors. Darren VanEssen and Kaden Fujita (both past members of the RIC) have also been great mentors. They were always willing to help, whether with my projects in lab, reviewing a final paper, or simply giving advice on which courses to take in my undergraduate degree. I am so grateful for the relationships that the RIC has helped me build.
What advice would you give students who are about to start their biological sciences degrees and possibly embark in research through the RIC program?
Take full advantage of the opportunities offered to you! The University of Lethbridge is incredible in that you are provided with so many chances to engage with your instructors and professors. Get involved, whether that be with research, tutoring, clubs, volunteer work or athletics.
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Imagine being the first to discover something about a gene, a cell, an organism or an ecosystem! In the Research Internship Concentration (RIC), students make discoveries through biological research as an integral part of your university program. Learn more about the RIC.