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"Since my research interests and previous experience were well in line with the ongoing basic science HIV/AIDS research in FHS, it was an easy decision to make to come to ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV."
Aniqa Shahid
PhD student in the Faculty of Health Sciences
I came to Vancouver as an international student in 2012 and have lived here since then. I am a basic science researcher by education and training. After finishing basic education in Pakistan, I worked at the Aga Khan University in Karachi. Then I relocated to Canada and joined the Faculty of Health Sciences at ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV (¶¡ÏãÔ°AV) to pursue my MSc degree. After graduating from ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV, I worked at the British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AID. I returned to ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV for my PhD in 2019.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO COME TO ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV?
Firstly, ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV offers a culturally diverse environment which makes it easier for international students to adjust to their life in Canada. Secondly, the Faculty of Health Sciences is at the forefront of HIV/AIDS research. Since my research interests and previous experience were well in line with the ongoing basic science HIV/AIDS research in FHS, it was an easy decision to make to come to ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR RESEARCH AND/OR PROGRAM.
Ah, this a tough question to answer. Over the years, I have tried many times to explain my family what I do in research. I came to a relatively easy explanation in the end that I am trying to find a cure for HIV/AIDS.
WHAT ARE YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOYING ABOUT YOUR STUDIES/RESEARCH AT ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV?
I highly appreciate the well-equipped research laboratories at ¶¡ÏãÔ°AV, which is essential for our research work to progress smoothly. In addition to this, students are always encouraged to present their research at local and International conferences. I know it's a little different this year due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and most conferences will be virtual next year as well. Nevertheless, it gives students the opportunity to build a global network and collaborate.
HAVE YOU BEEN THE RECIPIENT OF ANY MAJOR OR DONOR FUNDED AWARDS?
BC Graduate Scholarship
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU'D LIKE TO SHARE?
Yes, I have been awarded the Frederick Banting and Charles Best Canada Graduate Scholarship from CIHR. This award supports doctoral research work up to three years. It is always encouraging for a student to be recognized for their academic excellence and research accomplishments. In addition to support my university education and research, this award will certainly help me secure better post-doctoral opportunities once I graduate.
Contact Aniqa: ashahid@sfu.ca
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