Elena Esina
MSc candidate – University of Ottawa
Elena holds an Honours Bachelor degree in Biomedical Science from the University of Ottawa and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Biology with Dr. Carole Yauk and Dr. Francesco Marchetti in the GReAT lab. Her research focuses on using error-corrected next-generation sequencing (ecNGS) to study the mutational characteristics of aging in mouse tissues. As part of this research, she is conducting power analyses to optimize study designs for ecNGS mutation analysis for diverse experimental questions, including her ongoing research on aging and toxicological assessments. Beyond research, Elena loves escape rooms and other puzzle games.
Grace Gardner
MSc candidate – Carleton University
gracegardner@cmail.carleton.ca
Grace earned her undergraduate degree in forensic science at Trent University, where she took an interest in genetics and bioinformatics. In 2023, she began her master’s at Carleton University with Dr. Catherine Cullingham in the GP3 Lab (Genomics of Plants, Pests and Populations). Her research focuses on using genotype-environmental associations to identify local adaptation in jack pine, a wide-ranging pine species found in the boreal forests of Canada. By predicting habitat suitability under future climate scenarios and identifying genetic markers linked to adaptive traits, Grace hopes to enhance forest conservation and planting strategies. Grace enjoys being outdoors, drawing, swimming and getting involved in her bio community.
Karen Kadamani
PhD candidate – University of Ottawa
Karen began her research journey alongside Dr. Matthew Pamenter during her honours project, which has since blossomed into her PhD endeavour. She investigates the immune response of naked mole-rats in acute hypoxia following an immune stressor, aiming to uncover how these remarkable creatures have adapted their innate immune system to the fluctuating oxygen levels within their burrows. When she’s not immersed in her research, Karen enjoys reading, writing, learning to play the guitar, and spending quality time with her puppy.
Marshall Ritchie
marshallritchie@cmail.carleton.ca
PhD candidate – Carleton University
Marshall began his time at Carleton in 2016 as an undergraduate and, since then, has pursued a master’s and started a PhD under the supervision of Dr. Heath MacMillan and Dr. Jennifer Provencher. His research focuses on the effects of microplastic ingestion in terrestrial animals, primarily studying insects and birds that consume microplastics. He hopes to unpin the interactions of microplastic ingestion using advanced microscopy techniques and overly complex experiments. When he’s not exploring the halls of Nesbitt, he enjoys spending time on the golf course, tending to his garden, or socializing with friends after work
Email: ocib.symposium@gmail.com