Supervisor:
Program of Study:
MSc, Pathology
Project Title:
Investigating the role of a long non-coding RNA in suppressing antigen presentation in breast cancer
Scholarships and/or awards:
- J & W Murphy Entrance Scholarship (2018): entrance scholarship valued at $6,000 based on community involvement and academic excellence
- Hector McInnes Memorial Scholarship (2018): entrance scholarship valued at $3,000 based on academic achievements
- Dalhousie Student Union Gold ‘D’ Impact Award (2021): awarded for outstanding leadership, community involvement, and achievement
- Nova Scotia Graduate Studentship Award 2024-2026: $10,000 per year
Lay Research Summary:
It is estimated by the Canadian Cancer Society that 1 in 8 Canadian women will develop breast cancer during their lifetime. Our body’s immune system normally detects and removes cancer cells by recognizing certain proteins on them. However, cancer cells can hide from the immune system by changing their genes. Our research focuses on finding these genes that help cancer cells evade detection. We’ve discovered a new gene that seems crucial in this process. Our plan is to block this gene and see how it affects cancer cells’ ability to hide from the immune system. By understanding this gene’s role, we hope to develop better treatments for breast cancer that help the immune system fight cancer cells more effectively.
Career aspirations:
As a member of the Marcato lab and a trainee of the BHCRI, I’m excited to collaborate with passionate scientists dedicated to unraveling the complexities of breast cancer and developing targeted therapies. The training I’m receiving as a graduate student is fostering my professional and academic development, both of which are pivotal to my career aspirations of becoming a leader in the field of cancer therapeutics.
Location:
Dalhousie University