丁香园AV

Molecular Biology and Biochemistry master's student in the Faculty of Science

Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field

My name is Haider Bilal and I am in my final semester of my undergrad, and I am excited to hopefully be starting graduate school at 丁香园AV! I have spent the last three years researching regenerative medicine in the Braid lab. I am inspired by the potential for this research to positively impact and improve human health.

Why did you choose to come to 丁香园AV?

I came to 丁香园AV because of its comprehensive approach to education paired with its close proximity to my home. This way I could remain close to my home and community, without compromising on my education. Additionally, the research opportunities I later discovered in my program solidified that I had made the right decision to learn at 丁香园AV.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

My research focuses on a specific type of stem cell in the human body: mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs). These stem cells are able to differentiate and become specialized cell types, like bone, fat and muscle cells. Because of this they play an important role in tissue regeneration and wound healing. My research specifically focuses on what role MSCs play in a rare disease: known as Batten disease. This is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder primarily affecting children. In Batten disease the neurons of the brain slowly degrade and die, leading to severe symptoms like vision loss, seizures, and loss of motor ability. This occurs because of genetic mutations or mistakes in specific genes in the DNA of the cells in the brain. I research what effect removing the genes mutated in Batten patients has in the MSCs. Since MSCs are present in the brain, and are critical in supporting the birth of new neurons, I aim to explore how their function is disturbed in Batten disease, and what role they play in the neuronal death.

What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?

Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells, neurodegenerative diseases, regenerative medicine

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

My RA-ships in the Braid lab have helped me develop fundamental research skills needed to excel in my field. Additionally, it has allowed me to work on several research projects, receive mentorship, and improve my academic writing alongside other scientific skills. My experience holding two TA-ships in a genetics, and molecular biology class has allowed me to gain a better understanding of relevant academic material by teaching tutorials several times a week, and explaining concepts to students. This teaching experience, and taking my own courses has aided me in better grasping the major academic concepts and theory behind my own research, and molecular biology in general.

Have you been the recipient of any major or donor-funded awards? If so, please tell us which ones and a little about how the awards have impacted your studies and/or research

Through my undergrad, I have been the recipient of several awards funding my training as a researcher. I have received two undergraduate research awards (USRAs) funded by NSERC. These USRAs gave me the opportunity to research full time for two semesters. Additionally, I received another award from the Stem Cell Network, an organization that funds stem cell related research in Canada. This award allowed me to research full time for a semester, and present my research at a virtual symposium with other award winners across Canada. Overall, these awards have allowed me to focus my time on my research, and develop crucial skills to excel and drive my research forward through my graduate studies.

What have been the most valuable lessons you've learned along your graduate student journey (or in becoming a graduate student)?

The most valuable lesson in becoming a graduate student is the importance of time management to keep my research and course work on track, but also keeping aside personal time for hobbies, and traveling to maintain a good balance in my life.

How do you approach networking and building connections in and outside of your academic community?

I approach networking and building connections by attending various conferences, and presenting my research through posters and talks. This allows other people in the scientific community to engage with my research, create dialogue, and broaden my network.

What are some tips for balancing your academic and personal life?

Some tips to balance your academic and personal life is to manage and plan your time effectively, so you can set aside time to do things you love. For me that was taking a few weeks off to travel, or taking weekends off to hike, and other hobbies I love.

If you could dedicate your research to anyone (past, present and/or future), who would that be and why?

I would dedicate my research to all of the children that are affected by Batten disease, and other neurodegenerative disorders. I sincerely hope that the effort I put into my research will eventually translate one day into improving their lives, and treating disease.

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Contact Haider:hbilal@sfu.ca

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