2022 Graduate Studies Entrance Award
Project title: Validating novel targets of the Salmonella effector SspH2
How would you describe your research project to someone without a scientific background?
Salmonella is a major cause of foodborne bacterial infections. During infection, Salmonella causes disease by injecting specific proteins, called effectors, into host cells. These effectors disturb important processes in those cells, aiding Salmonella in its goal of multiplying and spreading to new hosts. I will study one specific effector, SspH2, and my aim is to identify the human proteins it targets. Specifically, we know that SspH2 targets an immune protein called NOD1, and I am attempting to determine if proteins related to NOD1 are targeted as well, which could help us better understand how the immune system responds to Salmonella. More information can be found at prropel.ca/bacterial-pathogenesis/.
What impact do you hope this project makes once completed?
I hope my research improves our understanding of how SspH2 contributes to Salmonella infection, and more generally, how Salmonella interacts with immune responses. Ideally, this information would be useful in creating new anti-Salmonella therapeutics.
How has the support from Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology helped you?
The Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology (LKSIoV) has aided me by supporting faculty and staff who have provided mentorship and guidance in the early stages of my research career. And the world-class facilities associated with the LKSIoV have allowed me to conduct the best research I can.
When did you realize you wanted to pursue a degree / career in science?
I have always loved science and considered pursuing it in university, but I only really decided in grade 11. I took biology 30 that year, and it was my favourite of all my high school courses. My teacher was amazing and the experience made me realize that I wanted science to be a part of my life every day.
What's one piece of advice you received from your supervisor/mentor that has resonated with you?
A previous supervisor once told me that the stereotypical idea of a “mad scientist” working alone for hours and hours on their research was a complete lie. Science is a very collaborative process, and it’s impossible to succeed if you try to do everything by yourself.
What is your favorite distraction or hobby?
I love to hike in the summer and ski in the winter.
What is one thing you cannot live without?
Coffee.