Meet Your Council!

Tori Scherle

vsche069@uottawa.ca

I am a PhD student in the Harris Lab studying protein/ligand interactions using in silico and in vitro approches for various Natural Health Products. This is my second year as president and can't wait to continue bringing our grad students the best events and support. Outside of academics I am the president & founder of Achezzo Acappella and have held previous leadership roles in other clubs that have prepared me to take on this role. I also enjoy reading, creating content and adventuring!

Sarah Heffernan

sheff019@uottawa.ca

I am a PhD student in the Rajakumar Lab studying the evolutionary development of compound eyes in ants. Outside of the lab I love playing sports, hiking, finding cool bugs, and taking pictures of my cat. I am very excited to be apart of the BGSA and look forward to being more involved in the department community!

Kennis Ross

Hi! My name is Kennis and I’m a Master’s student in the Standen lab. I work with salamanders and how sensory feedback influences their movement. I’m so excited to be a part of the BGSA and use my creativity to expand our social media presence! Outside of my research I love knitting, reading, hanging out with my bunny, and staying active. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions!

Vaibhav Kulkarni

vkulk094@uottawa.ca

Hi everyone! I am Vaibhav, your newly elected Professional Development Officer. I am a graduate student in Dr. Aris-Brosou's lab, where my research leverages bioinformatics to elucidate the evolutionary relationships among viruses and viral-like species on a global scale. As PD Officer, my goal is to help you navigate uncertainties in your academic and career journeys by leading workshops on risk identification, mitigation, and proactive problem-solving. With my research background and a passion for student success, I aim to foster an environment that supports both academic and professional growth. If you have any ideas or suggestions, please reach out—I'm here to help!

Contact: https://vaibhavkulkarni.bio/

Siddharthan Lakshmanan

slaks047@uottawa.ca

I’m a first-year master’s student at the Brauer Lab, researching fungal pathogenesis in cereal crops. In my free time, I enjoy playing soccer, exploring the outdoors, and trying new foods. Being new to Ottawa, I’m eager to connect with fellow graduate students through the BGSA and make the most of my time here. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns!

Lai Wei 

I’m a master’s student in the Mennigen Lab. I am studying the toxicity effects of PFAS on pancreatic beta-cell development in zebrafish. I enjoy crocheting, baking, music, and badminton during my free time and love getting involved in the community!

Feel free to contact me with any concerns you may have, I’m always here to help!

Emily Marion

I am a first year MSc student in the Brauer lab at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. My research involves characterizing two candidate maize genes potentially responsible for the resistance of an emerging fungal disease of corn called tar spot. I love the interdisciplinary nature of my project and am fascinated my microbe-plant interactions! On the weekends, you can find me cooking, hiking or camping! I hope to meet many of you at our events and around campus but don't hesistate to reach out if you have any questions!

Emily Gallipeau

egall103@uottawa.ca

I am currently a Master’s student in Dr. Allyson MacLean’s lab. My research focuses on the fantastic world of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, using reverse genetics to identify novel plant genes which regulate AM symbiosis. I am inspired by the power of beneficial fungi, plant microbe interactions and how we can use them in agriculture. Outside of research I spend my time baking, crocheting and cattle farming.  I also completed my undergraduate degree at UOttawa so I am excited to be part of the graduate student community as your GSAÉD representative.

Augustin Birot

I am a first-year PhD student in the M.A.D. Lab, all the way from Lyon, France. I’m doing research on the Yellow-Bellied Marmots body mass evolution with climate change. As a newcomer here, I am really excited to get to know the Biograd community! When I’m not studying I love to hike and hang out!

Gabrielle Quenneville

I am a first-year master's student in the Ekker lab, studying nervous system development and gene regulation in fish. As a Franco-Ontarian, I’m passionate about representing my community and reconnecting with my roots. I love plants, music, and reading, and I strive to advocate for intersectionality in both my research and daily life.

Lily Charles

lchar061@uottawa.ca

I am a MSc student in the Kharouba lab studying the use of restored grassland habitats by monarch butterflies. In my free time I love to socialize, read, crochet, and hike

Madeleine Robitaille

mrobi047@uottawa.ca

Hello everyone! I’m Madeleine (she/her/elle) and I’m excited to be one of your CUPE reps! I’m a first-year PhD student in the Lee-Yaw Lab studying genetic diversity in Fowler’s toads. I am a strong advocate for graduate workers’ rights and I am looking forward to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment among graduate students. I enjoy spending time outdoors, knitting, and cooking. Please feel free to reach out if you have questions or concerns!

Nicole Kester

nkest080@uottawa.ca

I am a master’s student in the Kharouba lab studying environmental niche shifts in invasive plant species in North America. Outside of research, I love reading, being outdoors, and travelling. Feel free to reach out if you have any CUPE-related questions or concerns!