2026 Graduates of GRIP

I received my B.Sc. in Chemical Biology (Co-op) from McMaster University in 2023, where I gained ample research experience in nanotechnology and stem cell differentiation. Afterwards, I joined the Pharmaceutical Sciences program here at the University of Toronto in the lab of Dr. Gang Zheng, initially as a MSc student before transferring to the PhD program.

My research primarily focuses on developing novel nanoparticles to overcome the challenges in applying antimicrobial photodynamic therapy to treat difficult respiratory infections.

Nanotechnology has always fascinated me due to the unique properties and advantages materials have at the nanoscale level, and the opportunity to apply these technologies to develop treatments that could potentially save lives is especially rewarding. In particular, antibiotic resistance is one of the most pressing and rapidly growing healthcare concerns, yet not enough research effort has been put into developing alternative treatments. This has inspired me to explore how we can use nanomaterials and photodynamic therapy to address this growing issue.

This graduate program has given me so many opportunities to grow both as a researcher and a professional through my involvement with PSGSA and AAPS, as well as the many seminars and networking events the department provides. The PharmSci community is absolutely wonderful and I have learned so much from my colleagues and mentors during my time here so far.

My biggest advice is to show initiative! Being proactive and absorbing as much information as you can from your peers and mentors is the best way to improve and make the most of your graduate experience. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and seek new opportunities, as it is the best way to grow as a researcher and professional.

I obtained my MD degree from the National Autonomous University of Mexico in 2019. Then, I completed a Research Internship studying inorganic nanoparticles to develop a treatment for chronic wounds, which was later commercialized by a Canadian company. I am now a third year PhD student at Labouta Lab, where we combine nanomedicine and organ-on-chip technologies to address pregnancy diseases. My doctoral studies have been supported by the Queen Elizabeth II - Merck Scholarship in Science & Technology, and the CIHR - Canada Graduate Scholarship.

Can lipid nanoparticles and RNA interference be used to prevent severe complications of preeclampsia? Preeclampsia is one of the oldest life-threatening diseases that does not have a cure yet. Until this day, the only definitive treatment for preeclampsia is to terminate the pregnancy. I want to find a therapy so women with preeclampsia don't have to choose between their lives or their pregnancies.

My doctoral studies have greatly complemented my clinical background and problem solving skills. In science, as in the clinic, decision making is always wrapped in many layers of uncertainty. During my program I have gained more tools to navigate such uncertainty and explore potential solutions to complex problems. What feeds my personal success is to do what is in my power to improve other people's lives.

Wherever you go, whatever you do, make sure to learn something from it, and leave things better than how you found them.

I completed my PharmD here at the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy.

As scientific evidence and publications grow exponentially, it is increasingly hard to conduct timely and accurate evidence syntheses. Large language models are promising tools to speed up this process, but it is important to use them responsibly due to inherent limitations. I was inspired to pursue this topic because my thesis includes an evidence synthesis, and I entered the program shortly after ChatGPT was released.

Grad school has been enriching. It has provided opportunities to take courses, attend talks and conferences, and explore new ideas in a supportive environment where making mistakes is part of the learning process. It has also broadened my understanding of the research landscape in Canada and beyond, while fostering connections with researchers around the world.

Graduate school is more than just your thesis and main area of research! Some of the most valuable experiences come from exploring new fields and following your curiosity.

I received an Honours Bachelor of Science at the University of Toronto, specializing in pharmacology and biomedical toxicology. I then completed a Master of Science in Molecular Neuroscience at McGill University, where I studied the pathobiology of mild traumatic brain injuries.

My research focuses on how chronic inflammation associated with lupus leads to dysregulated expression and function of placental transporters during pregnancy. These transporters are critical as they provide protection to the developing fetus from harmful substances. Since women with lupus need to continue taking medications throughout pregnancy, these studies will help to evaluate the potential risk of fetal drug exposure and improve maternal-fetal outcomes. I was inspired to pursue this topic because it addresses drug safety in a special patient population that has been historically understudied.

The PhD program in the LDFP has enabled me to learn various specialized and advanced laboratory techniques, spanning from explant cell culture to in vivo animal studies. This has equipped me with a versatile skillset that is essential for pursuing a career in the pharmaceutical industry. In addition, I have had the opportunity to present my research at both local and international conferences. These experiences have broadened my professional and personal networks, and enhanced my ability to communicate my research to a wide range of audiences.

My advice would be to maintain a strong work ethic, as success often stems from consistently showing up to the lab, putting in the effort, and persevering through challenges and setbacks.

I completed an MSc in Family Medicine at McGill University.

My PhD research aims to optimize medication care for older adults experiencing homelessness to inform clinical practice and improve patient outcomes. I was inspired to pursue this work by a commitment to geriatric care and healthcare equity, ensuring that underserved aging populations receive high-quality, evidence-based care.

The graduate program has provided advanced training in research methodologies, access to extensive networks of local and international collaborators, and exposure to real-world healthcare challenges. It has shaped my ability to generate and apply evidence to inform clinical practice and improve health systems.

Celebrate both your successes and setbacks. There is value in each experience, and what may initially feel like a failure may, in retrospect, become one of the most meaningful learning opportunities in your development as a researcher.