Meet our scientists!

Jayde Casimir-Powell, Creator/ Editor/Writer/ Reviewer

Bsc., PhD. Candidate, Cell Biology

Jayde’s work focuses on the mobility and interactions of key proteins that are implicated in cancer, and how these interactions may change when a cancer cell becomes resistant to certain therapies. She’s also worked in drug discovery with companies like Cyclica and Phenox Pharma. Jayde is passionate about advancing human discovery and science outreach. In her free time, she likes cooking, dancing, and being outdoors!

Eleanor Cloves, Writer/Reviewer

Bsc., PhD. Candidate Cell Biology & Computational Biology

Ellie is a senior PhD student with a Bsc. in Molecular Biology & Genetics. Her research aims to find a new treatment for breast cancer using ultrasound technology. She is passionate about cancer biology, science communication and machine learning. In her free time she enjoys coding and making music.

Thomas Esmond- Yanqui, Writer/Reviewer

Bsc., PhD. Candidate, Biochemistry

Thomas is an aspiring physician and PhD researcher. He is studying modifications in a protein pathway in a type of E. coli that causes hundreds of deaths a year through severe food poisoning. He has received multiple awards, including NSERC and CGSM funding, and was a finalist in a Canadian microbiology research competition. Outside the lab, he enjoys video games, tabletop games, and playing the drums and guitar.

Osemudiamen Ibazebo, Writer/Reviewer

Bsc., PhD. Candidate, Cell Biology & Materials Chemistry

Ose’s research focuses on the making and use of nanoparticles for studying how the cell is able to uptake different materials. It is through this process that cells obtain food, and other molecules important for their function, making it a pivotal therapeutic target. Unfortunately, bad actors like viruses also use this process to infect cells and cause illness. Ose’s research aims to better understand this process which could help drug development and design. When she isn’t cooking up particles in the lab, Ose spends her spare time cooking up sweet treats in her kitchen, reading, swimming, and tending to her farm in Stardew Valley.

Sarah Birstonas, Writer/Reviewer

Bsc., Msc., PhD Candidate, Biochemistry

Sarah’s research training started in microbiology, she used the knowledge gained in her MSc and shifted to study the biochemistry of host-pathogen interactions during her PhD. Sarah’s research focuses on the molecular weapon that E. Coli uses to infect cells, also known as the Type III secretion system. When she isn’t doing research Sarah spends her time painting Warhammer miniatures and tending to her dogs Spaghetti and Meatball. 

Clive Boateng Ameyaw, Writer/Reviewer

Bsc., PhD. Candidate, Organic Chemistry

Clive PhD candidate specializing in making innovative silicon compounds, targeting greener routes to pharmaceuticals. Clive has had the privilege of presenting his findings at many conferences and has published in the Journal of Inorganic and General Chemistry. When he’s not designing intricate structures in the lab, he is applying similar strategic thinking to turn-based games like Slay the Spire; optimizing moves and anticipating outcomes. 

Kerenza Cheng, Writer/ Reviewer

Bsc., PhD. Candidate, Computational Biology

Kerenza is a PhD canadidate in molecular science. Her research focuses on developing a program that aims to help researchers analyze large DNA replication data. She aims to use this program to help scientists understand how errors in replication lead to genetic diseases including cancers. In her rare downtime, she enjoys crafting with beads and sketching.

Rebecca Scenna, Writer/Reviewer

Bsc. MASc., PhD Candidate, Environmental Applied Science

Rebecca is a PhD student in environmental science with a background in applied chemistry and materials science. Her research focuses on developing sustainable materials for water treatment. She completed her master’s degree in Environmental Applied Science and Management, where she studied advanced filtration systems. Rebecca continues to support academic learning through teaching and research.  


 Ishaba Hossain, Social Media Manager

Ishaba is a third-year Biomedical Science student interested in pursuing dentistry. She grew up doing visual arts and enjoys hobbies such as drawing, painting, sewing, and crocheting. She is interested in combining her creativity with science to communicate complex scientific ideas to the public.