Research topic
Research Description
The typical flow of biological information in biological systems is the conversion of DNA to RNA to functional proteins. Gene therapies have the potential of treating diseases by manipulating this flow of information for therapeutic benefits. Enabling gene therapies requires mechanism to carry nucleic acid cargoes to the target cells within the body. We focus on the design and development of lipid nanoparticle technology as carriers for nucleic acids in biological systems.
Why did you decide to pursue a postdoctoral fellowship at UBC? Did you consider other opportunities?
My primary interests are in the design and development of lipid nanoparticle systems. UBC and Vancouver have an established and world-renowned nanomedicine research sector. Approximately 6 of 12 FDA-approved lipid-based nanomedicines have originated from research conducted at UBC. The potential to perform translational research and be part of the nanomedicine community was a key factor in this decision.
What specifically attracted you to your research group?
Drs Christian Kastrup and Pieter Cullis have an established record of innovative research and translation of those findings to better improve patients outcomes. They are also incredibly supportive mentors with exceptional teams.
What advice do you have for new postdoctoral fellows?
As a graduate student, you can be tied down with a lot of additional responsibilities such as coursework and other institutional requirements. However, as a postdoctoral fellow you have the ability to focus on your research (and funding) without distractions, and it gives you the opportunity to apply what you have learned during your PhD to a potentially new field.
What do you like to do for fun?
Through high school I was fascinated with music and tried learning how to play a few wind instruments, with limited success in most. I picked up playing bass and thoroughly enjoyed it. More recently I have been trying to teach myself how to play the guitar. Most Friday evenings though you are likely to find me (at a bar or) somewhere enjoying a cold beer!
What is the most enjoyable aspect of your postdoctoral fellowship?
The freedom and flexibility to pursue the research that interests me. Stemming from this, of course, is actually performing the research. I am a generally-curious person, so being able to ask a research-based question, perform the necessary studies, and answer those questions is what i find incredibly stimulating.
What are the biggest challenges you have faced, or anticipate facing, in your career?
In the past: Being a foreign national during my graduate studies, I was ineligible for a substantial number of scholarship or fellowships. This meant that securing funding to support my stipend was not particularly easy, though I found solace in applications that are citizenship-independent.
What does receiving this award mean for your career?
As an NMIN postdoctoral fellow, I hope to contribute meaningfully to the Canadian nanomedicine ecosystem and, most importantly, improve patient outcomes.
What do you think the next step in your career will be?
I am really hoping to establish myself as an independent researcher. In the near future I will continue to build my career as a postdoctoral fellow, but also be looking for opportunities to establish my own research program.