Welcome Roza!

 

Hi! My name is Roza Gabdullina and currently I am completing my Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry at the University of Lethbridge. My academic journey has taken me through diverse fields, including a Bachelor in Fine Arts, a Master’s degree in History, and graduate studies in Archaeology, but my passion has always been grounded in discovery and applied research.  

Over the past year, I’ve had the opportunity to explore molecular diagnostics through an internship with Paramoria Agri-Science, where I worked as a Molecular Pathology Intern. There, I conducted qPCR analyses to detect and quantify crop diseases from field samples and optimized protocols for diagnostic efficiency. I also worked on developing an RNA toehold switch biosensor for clubroot detection in canola. The idea is to create a test that functions much like a rapid COVID test, using freeze-dried toehold switches embedded on paper to detect pathogen RNA and produce a visible signal that could give growers real-time results right in the field. I co-authored a publication focused on the biophysical characterization of GFP-nanobody interactions, building on research I conducted using biophysical techniques.  

This summer, I’m excited to expand my experience into entomology and gain practical skills in insect sampling, field plot maintenance, and integrated pest management. I’m especially looking forward to seeing how molecular biology and field ecology intersect to support sustainable agriculture in Canada. 

Figure 1. Roza taking a break from labelling insect specimens.

Welcome Jacques!

Hello there! My name is Jacques Jolivet and I am a co-op student at the University of Victoria working in the Insect Pest Management (IPM) program at the Beaverlodge Research Farm this summer. I am a third-year science undergraduate student majoring in Biology at the University of Victoria on Vancouver Island, where I grew up. I have always had a passion for bugs of all sorts and in the past few years I have started breeding isopods and collecting ant queens during their nuptial flights.

I grew up on a small hobby farm, and have been heavily involved in the 4-H Program for 13 years, so agriculture is very near and dear to me. On our farm, we raise sheep and chickens. In my free time, you can find me cuddling with my sheep, playing tabletop roleplaying games and dying for hours on end in brutally difficult video games.

This summer working with the IPM team is my first job and I am really excited to do interesting, meaningful work!  I hope to learn as much as I can about insect biology and identification, agriculture in the Peace River region, and how to conduct proper field and laboratory analysis.

Figure 1. Jacques cuddling with his fluffy friends.