Cancer Research Institute of Northern Alberta - University of Alberta

It's Trainee Tuesday! Get to know CRINA trainee Fateema Muzaffar, a PhD student in Cancer Sciences.

1. Where are you originally from?
I'm from Kashmir, a valley in the north of India with a landscape quite similar to Alberta's.

2. What did you do your previous degree in and where?
I completed my Bachelor's honors in Neurosciences with a minor in Neuropsychology from Amity University in Delhi, India.

3. Whose lab are you currently working in and what is your primary area of research?
My supervisor is Dr. Vickie Baracos, and my primary research is focused on understanding the neurobiological mechanisms of appetite suppression due to cancer. Loss of appetite, known as cancer-anorexia, is a prevalent and distressing symptom experienced by cancer patients at diagnosis, leading to insufficient intake of essential nutrients and severe weight loss. This condition not only impedes their ability to tolerate cancer treatments but also diminishes their quality of life, given the central role of food in social interactions. My research focuses on investigating how cancer disrupts brain regions responsible for appetite regulation, aiming to address current gaps in understanding the underlying mechanisms and develop more effective therapeutic strategies.

4. What initially drew you to this area of study and to pursue a career in science?
My interest in this field was sparked by a family member's battle with cancer, which deeply impacted our family. Witnessing the challenges they faced motivated me to explore this area further. I've always been captivated by the intricate workings of the brain and body, and this personal experience has driven me to seek greater understanding in the hope of making a meaningful difference in this field.

5. What is your favorite part about grad school and what is your least favourite part?
What I enjoy most about grad school is its diversity. I love exploring different subjects and gaining skills across various disciplines. Learning something new is always exciting. However, staying updated with the latest research advancements can be challenging yet rewarding. There's so much to learn that it often feels like you could always use more time.

6. What is the thing you are most proud of accomplishing so far?
I am grateful for the journey I have had in grad school. It is not solely about one aspect, but rather the collective experience of facing challenges, gaining knowledge in various fields, and establishing valuable relationships with peers and mentors. Every encounter has contributed to my personal and professional development, and I am eagerly looking forward to the future paths it may lead me towards

7. Do you have any advice you would like to pass on to new students?
To new students entering our program or field, I would advise embracing the fact that you won't know everything—there's always something new to learn. Remember, everyone starts somewhere, so don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it. And remember to take breaks occasionally; burnout can sneak up on you unexpectedly.

8. What is your favorite thing about Edmonton and what do you like to do outside of grad school?
My favorite thing about Edmonton is the River Valley and its easy access to nature. I love exploring the trails and capturing the beauty of nature through photography. It's such a peaceful escape, and living here allows me to indulge in my hobbies of nature photography and painting, which are my favorite ways to unwind outside of grad school.

9. What is your favorite quote, and who is it by?
“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about” - Wendy Mass

It's Trainee Tuesday! Get to know CRINA trainee Daniel Won-Shik Choi who just completed a PhD in the Department of Oncology in the laboratory of Dr. Roseline Godbout.

Where are you originally from?
I am originally from South Korea.

What did you do your previous degree(s) in and where?
I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Alberta, majoring in honors Biochemistry.

What is your primary area of research?
My research is on the role of lipids and lipid-binding proteins in the progression of different cancers. Lipids are essential molecules that regulate multiple cellular processes, such as growth, invasion, and survival, which are all important in cancer cells. As lipids are hydrophobic (water-repelling), cells utilize specific proteins called intracellular lipid-binding proteins (iLBPs) to transport them within the aqueous (water-like) cellular environment, determining the final destination (fate) of a given lipid. I am investigating the potential of using iLBPs and the lipids they bind to, such as omega-3 docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and retinoic acid (RA), to improve the effectiveness of cancer treatment.

What initially drew you to this area of study and to pursue a career in science?
During my undergraduate years, I had many research opportunities that made the scientific method exciting and enjoyable. I also met great mentors and team members who constantly inspired me and ignited my passion for cancer research.

What is your favorite part about grad school? And what is your least favourite?
I take pride in my research and I really enjoy discussing my work with others. The journey of grad school is generally fun and exciting. If I had to point out one least favorite aspect, it would be managing the workload while coping with a growing family, especially when you have little babies at home.

Do you have any advice you would like to pass on to new students?
Stay positive! I think understanding the complexity of the biological system, especially cancer biology, is crucial to keep yourself going. You will definitely face challenges in your research, not because you are not smart, but because the problems are incredibly complex. So, don’t get too down about failed experiments, but keep being positive! It’s like working on a 3000-piece puzzle - eventually, the pieces will fit together, giving you a clear picture of your research questions. Remember, you have colleagues! Collaborating with them can help piece together a better image. There are many tasks beyond your project as a graduate student: writing studentship applications, grant proposals, manuscripts, training undergraduates, and engaging in discussions about your and your colleagues’ projects. Be actively involved in these activities; I learned a lot from them. These skills will be invaluable in your future career, no matter what you pursue.

In terms of your career, what does the road ahead look like for you?
I developed a strong interest in clinical biochemistry over the past year while exploring future career options. I am excited to join the clinical biochemistry fellowship program at McMaster University from 2024 to 2026. This two-year fellowship will allow me to learn various aspects of clinical biochemistry and prepare me for the certification exam. After passing the exam, I plan to work as a clinical biochemist!

What is your favorite quote, and who is it by?
“All men dream: but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds wake up in the day to find it was vanity, but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act their dreams with open eyes, to make it possible.” -T.E. Lawrence

On Wednesday May 22, 2024, join CRINA and Dr. Paul Jurasz for "No, Aspirin will not prevent metastasis (nor will any other anti-platelet drug or anticoagulant)"
Email [email protected] for the Zoom link.

On Wednesday May 15, 2024, join CRINA and Dr. Hanne Ostergaard for "The cytoskeletal adaptor protein leupaxin regulates the CD8 T cell response to cancer" Email [email protected] for the Zoom link.

Cancer Research, Free Public Event, June 3, 2024. Learn about a cutting-edge patient-personalized cancer therapy developed here in Edmonton that allows more accurate treatment of solid tumors.

Our continuous MR-guided radiotherapy to potentially treat all solid tumors Learn about a cutting-edge patient-personalized therapy developed in Edmonton, Alberta that allows more accurate treatment of solid tumors.

Join us for "Cancer Imaging: Molecules to Patients", a two-day Gairdner Alberta Partnered Symposium highlighting the latest developments in cancer imaging research. bit.ly/4dhWSJI

It's Trainee Tuesday! Get to know CRINA trainee Claire Douglas who recently completed a Master of Science in Nutrition and Metabolism in the laboratory of Dr. Catherine Field.

1. Tell us about your research
My research focuses on the quality of life and exercise patterns of women with breast cancer undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in Canada and about 1 in 8 Canadian women will be diagnosed with the disease in their lifetime. It is crucial to identify ways to maintain patients’ quality of life during cancer treatment. My research focuses on determining whether exercise and omega-3 fatty acid supplementation can help maintain quality of life during neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

2. What initially drew you to this area of study and to pursue a career in science?
I chose to pursue a BSc in Biochemistry because I really enjoyed biology and chemistry courses throughout high school. The topics were challenging and constantly evolving as research advanced. I was introduced to the study of nutrition during my BSc, and I appreciated that it applied my biochemical background to concepts that could be used in day-to-day life. I was particularly interested in the role of nutrition in health and disease, and therefore I decided to pursue an MSc in Nutrition and Metabolism that was focused on cancer research.

3. What is your favorite part about grad school? And what is your least favourite?
My favourite part of graduate school was connecting with other graduate students and collaborating with members of my lab. It was fun to collaborate and work together to figure out a problem! One challenging part about graduate school was balancing academic commitments and personal activities, such as spending time with friends and family.

4. What is the thing you are most proud of accomplishing so far?
I am proud that I played varsity volleyball for part of my undergraduate degree. It was hard work, but I met lifelong friends and made lasting memories! Going forward, my Master’s program convocation will be a particular highlight for me.

5. Do you have any advice you would like to pass on to new students?
My advice to new students would be to enjoy the process. School can be very busy and stressful, but make sure that you stop to enjoy time with your classmates and the process of learning.

6. In terms of your career, what does the road ahead look like for you?
For now, I will continue my research in Dr. Field’s lab, and will eventually look to find a job or another learning opportunity in the field.

7. What is your favorite thing about Edmonton? And what do you like to do outside grad school?
My favorite thing about Edmonton is the river valley. I really enjoy biking and running on the trails. It is a nice break from the busy city. Outside of my studies, I really enjoy outdoor activities including camping, skiing and running.

8. If you could have dinner with any dead or living scientist who would it be and why?
I would have dinner with Rosalind Franklin, a woman that contributed to the discovery of the DNA double helix, but did not receive credit for it. Watson, Crick and Wilkins won the 1962 Nobel Prize for their discovery of the molecular structure of DNA. I would be interested to learn more about Dr. Franklin’s contributions, and discuss the challenges she faced as a female
scientist in the 20th century.

9. What is your favorite quote, and who is it by?
“There is no failure except in no longer trying.” – Elbert Hubbard

On Wednesday April 10, 2024, join CRINA and Dr. Cheryl Cable for "Teaching about head and neck cancer from a multidisciplinary approach. Telling a story with impact." Email [email protected] for the Zoom link.

Check out this video from CRINA member Dr. Cheryl Cable about how to prevent getting head and neck cancers from HPV.

How to Prevent Head and Neck Cancer Dr. Cheryl Cable, a dental surgeon, talks about Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and its significant link to head and neck cancers. Watch this educational video on...

On Wednesday March 20, 2024, join CRINA and Dr. Nicolas Thomä for "Transcription factors: how they find their target sites in chromatin (and how to get rid of them)". Email [email protected] for the Zoom link.

On Wednesday, March 13, join CRINA and Dr. Lee-Hwa Tai in ECHA 1-490 for "Viro-immunotherapy for poor-prognosis cancers".

It's Trainee Tuesday! Get to know CRINA trainee Natnael Abate, a Masters student in Cancer Science at the University of Alberta.

1. Where are you originally from?
I was born in Ethiopia, but I grew up in Canada.

2. What did you do your previous degree in and where?
I completed a BSc Specialization in Cell Biology at the University of Alberta

3. Whose lab are you currently working in, and what is your primary area of research?
I working in the lab of Dr. Micheal Hendzel. My main project focuses on the ultrastructure and organization of RNA.

4. Describe your research in 3 sentences to a lay audience.
My research focuses on understanding the processing and transport of messenger RNA (mRNA), key molecules responsible for conveying genetic information from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. Disruptions in RNA processing and transport, particularly dysregulated RNA splicing, have been linked to the initiation of tumorigenesis, influencing factors such as tumour growth, metastasis, and resistance to therapeutic drugs. Using light and electron microscopes, our objective is to understand the mechanism by which mRNA is transported from its site of transcription to the cytoplasm.

5. What initially drew you to this area of study and to pursue a career in science?
In my third and fourth year of undergraduate studies, I conducted an independent research project within Dr. Hendzel's laboratory, concentrating on DNA double-strand break repair. Building on this foundation and transitioning into a role as a Research Assistant, I was introduced to additional techniques, expanding my skill set and fueling my passion for research. This experience motivated me to pursue graduate studies, where I started Graduate school in January 2023.

6. What is your favourite part about grad school? And what is your least favourite?
My favourite part is getting to know individuals in my program and interacting with my lab members as we embark on this goal. My least favourite part is the failed experiments and troubleshooting.

7. What is the thing you are most proud of accomplishing so far?
I am proud that I am able to collaborate with different individuals in different institutions and make connections. I am also proud that I can mentor other students and inspire them about science and research.

8. Do you have any advice you would like to pass on to new students?
A key piece of advice is the importance of a goal-orientated approach. Making sure individuals establish objectives both during the program and post-program.

9. In terms of your career, what does the road ahead look like for you?
I have not decided on a main career yet. I am constantly learning and engaging in new things to keep my options open. But I would like to have a career in research.

10. What is your favourite quote, and who is it by?
"Be where you are; otherwise you will miss your life." — Buddha

On Wednesday, March 6, join CRINA and Dr. Matthew Bogyo in ECHA 1-490 for "Making it stick: using covalent ligands for diverse applications in biology".

Join a special preview of “Living Drugs” a documentary about the ground-breaking research of Michel Sadelain which has revolutionized cancer treatment.
https://metrocinema.org/series/science-in-cinema/

On Wednesday February 28, 2024, join CRINA and Dr. Phedias Diamandis for "PHARAOH: A weakly supervised active learning platform for PHenotyping And Regional Analysis Of Histology". Email [email protected] for the Zoom link.

At the University of Alberta, members of the Cancer Research Institute of Northern Alberta (CRINA) are working toward improved patient care through excellence in cancer research.

Learn more about CRINA: https://bit.ly/49vvwNJ

On Wednesday February 14, 2024, join CRINA and Dr. Hazem Ghoneim for "The Road to Unlocking Exhausted T Cells for Cancer Immunotherapy". Email [email protected] for the Zoom link.

It's Trainee Tuesday! Get to know CRINA trainee Leila Pirayeshfard a 5th year PhD Candidate in Biochemistry.

1. Where are you originally from?
I am from Iran (Tehran).

2. What did you do your previous degrees in and where?
I pursued my master's in medical biotechnology at the High Institute for Education and Research in Transfusion Medicine in Tehran, Iran. My focus was on the genetic alterations of the human T-cell lymphoma virus in blood donors. For my undergraduate degree, I studied Medical Laboratory Science. Following that, I worked as a technician in medical labs for over a decade, gaining practical experience in the field.

3. Whose lab are you currently working in and what is your primary area of research?
My supervisor is Dr. Ing Swie Goping. My primary area of research is looking at unraveling a novel molecular mechanism in breast cancer metastasis.

4. Describe your research in 3 sentences to a lay audience.
My study focuses on how breast cancer migrates to other organs through a novel regulator called BAD. This protein has two forms, with the non-phosphorylated form inhibiting metastasis through an unknown process. I am investigating this process by studying where BAD is located in the cell and the partners that are associated with it that could be targets for new drug treatments.

5. What is your favorite part about grad school? And what is your least favourite?
My favorite part about grad school is the gradual build-up of essential skills for my future career. It's like a confidence booster that propels you forward. On the flip side, the least favorite aspect has to be the struggles that can take a toll on your mental health. It's a bit of a rollercoaster, but the growth is worth the ride.

6. Do you have any advice you would like to pass on to new students?
For new students, I'd say grad life is a bit of a marathon, so pace yourself. It can get overwhelming, but the key is finding that balance between your studies and personal life. Having a good mentor can be a game-changer; they guide you through this journey, helping you carve out a fulfilling path. So, embrace the process, find that balance, and connect with someone who's been there —it can make a world of difference. Good luck!

7. In terms of your career, what does the road ahead look like for you?
In terms of my career, I'm keeping my options open. Given my background working in clinics, I'm leaning towards sticking with that path. Right now, I'm seriously considering diving into a Clinical Chemistry fellowship. It feels like the right move for the next leg of my professional journey.

8. What is your favorite thing about Edmonton? And what do you like to do outside grad school?
Edmonton rocks with its awesome trails, especially in the river valley. I'm all about taking casual walks, soaking up the nature vibes. Hiking and camping are my jams for sure. I'm even trying to get the hang of ice skating for the winter vibes. When I'm not outdoors, you'll catch me chilling with movies or checking out new spots to eat around the city. It's a nice break from the grad school hustle!

On Wednesday February 7, 2024, join CRINA and Dr. Michael Kolinsky for "Don't lose it, reuse it! Using a new biomarker testing approach to find value in an old drug". Contact [email protected] for the Zoom link

On Wednesday, January 31, join CRINA and Dr. Thomas Anish for "Deconvoluting tumor heterogeneity: a patient-centered approach". Contact [email protected] for the Zoom link.

On Wednesday January 24, 2024, join CRINA and Dr. Jody Haigh for "Role of ZEB proteins in Acute Myeloid and Lymphoid Leukemia". Contact [email protected] for the Zoom link

On Wednesday, January 17, join CRINA and Dr. Kristi Baker for "How genetic instability gives rise to antitumor immunity in colorectal cancer" in the Zane Feldman Auditorium (Cross Cancer Institute room 2286).

On Wednesday January 10, 2024, join CRINA and Dr. Rongzong Liu for "Targeting aberrant lipid metabolism and metastasis in prostate cancer" in the Zane Feldman Auditorium (room 2286 of the Cross Cancer Institute).

Best wishes from CRINA for a happy, healthy, and joyous holiday season!

Congratulations to Dr. Jenilee Woodfield, who received the Heleen and Rod McLeod Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Multiple Myeloma.

Congratulations to the recipients of the 2023 CRINA Graduate Studentships.

On Wednesday December 13, 2023, join CRINA and Dr. Alistair Boettiger for "Genome folding and transcription at single-molecule scale" Contact [email protected] for the Zoom link

Get to know CRINA trainee Bryce Nelson a a 4th year PhD Candidate in Oncology (Cancer Sciences)

1. Where are you originally from?
Edmonton

2. What did you do your previous degree in and where?
BSc in Chemical Engineering, University of Alberta

3. Whose lab are you currently working in and what is your primary area of research?
I’m supervised by Dr. Frank Wuest and Dr. Jan Andersson, and my research involves synthesizing radiopharmaceuticals for cancer diagnostic PET and SPECT imaging and targeted radionuclide therapy.

4. Please describe your research to a lay audience.
I primarily work at Edmonton’s Medical Isotope and Cyclotron Facility (MICF), developing production routes and purification processes for radionuclides (radioactive atoms) used in cancer diagnostic imaging and therapy. These radionuclides are attached to highly specific cancer-targeting agents, creating radiopharmaceuticals, and then tested in cancer cell and animal models at the Cross Cancer Institute and other collaborating institutions. Radiopharmaceuticals have significant potential to identify and precisely treat cancers and other systemic malignancies.

5. What initially drew you to this area of study and to pursue a career in science?
I was fortunate to meet my co-supervisor in 2018 who offered me a summer position at the MICF to develop and implement production of diagnostic imaging radionuclides. I enjoyed the research and appreciated the potential it held to improve patient care, so I continued this work throughout the final two years of my undergraduate degree and into graduate studies.

6. What is the thing you are most proud of accomplishing so far?
With our team, I developed a synthesis process for the lead-203 diagnostic radionuclide during my PhD studies. Lead-203 is now under routine production at the MICF, and we ship lead-203 to sites across five countries to supply melanoma and neuroendocrine tumor research and diagnostic imaging clinical trials. Lead-203 imaging can be paired with highly potent lead-212 targeted alpha particle therapy, which has shown significant promise in treating metastatic cancers. This precision medicine approach allows physicians to first screen patients with lead-203 to determine eligibility for lead-212 therapy and perform follow-up scans to evaluate treatment efficacy. Lead-203 worldwide supply has been severely limited owing to technical and safety challenges associated with irradiating highly toxic thallium target material on a cyclotron. So, I feel that our high-yield production route represents a valuable contribution to our research community and will stimulate further development and deployment of cancer targeting radiopharmaceuticals.

7. Do you have any advice you would like to pass on to new students?
Find an area of research that you’re passionate about and seek several experienced mentors to support your development. I’ve personally benefited from the generosity and patience of mentors at every stage of my studies, and that’s resulted in exploring research avenues I hadn’t previously considered.

8. What is your favorite thing about Edmonton? And what do you like to do outside grad school?
Long summer days in Edmonton are hard to beat. Outside of my studies, I enjoy sports including jogging, tennis, skiing, and surfing.

On Wednesday December 6, 2023, join CRINA and Dr. Michael Hoffman for "Predicting transcription factor binding and the effects of viral integration". Contact [email protected] for the Zoom link.