+ Ella Eberhardt, DEC, B.Sc.

Website: Portfolio

Instagram: @eberh_ardt.png

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ella-eberhardt-1b3982226

“Hey, would you be interested in designing a poster for one of my PhD candidates?” - words I distinctly remember hearing after being cheeky and submitting an art piece as my final project in Dr. Heather Kharouba’s Conservation Biology class.

This experience kickstarted my thought process of “Oh! This is something I could do”. I then remember a coworker mentioned the Biomedical Communications MSc program at a staff lunch at a Mexican restaurant while working at Agriculture and Agri-Foods Canada during an undergrad CO-OP position. It was like adding the final piece to the puzzle and I knew this is where I wanted to end up. I completed my BSc in Biology with a specialization in Ecology, Evolution and Animal Behaviour from the University of Ottawa. During this time, I worked in Dr. Gabriel Blouin-Demers lab working to collect turtle basking behaviour one summer and snake population density during another. I also completed my thesis under him asking the question; “Does urbanization impact the prevalence of defensive behaviour in redbelly (Storeria occipitomaculata) and eastern garter snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis)?” where I ran through fields for months collecting data and could not have enjoyed myself more.

With this background in field work, I ended up working for the Canadian Wildlife Service (ECCC) in the year I took to work on my BMC application. I had the joy of wading through Ontario marshes on the hunt for Blanding’s, Spotted and Snapping turtles.

Throughout my experiences I have gained transferable skills such as fluency in French and English as well as less transferable skills; I can proudly say that I can wrangle a 15lb snapping turtle! I am keen to learn everything I can about the biomedical communications field while finding ways to integrate my love for the outdoors. I am especially interested in understanding the powers of clear research communication.

Feel free to reach out, I would love to chat about anything from the intricacies of 3D modeling and its uses in modern medicine to plants and reptiles!

+ Grace Gibson, B.A.

Website: www.gracecgibson.com

Instagram: @gracelia.art

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/grace-c-gibson

At the age of five I declared a goal that would foreshadow the state of my life 20 years on: I decided I would simultaneously become a farmer and a ballet dancer, alternating days in my career paths. Though neither of those passions lasted beyond the year, the spirit remains—I’ve never been able to abandon any of my interests, electing instead to combine them all into an interdisciplinary milieu. Delving into the intersection of art and science as a biomedical communicator slots perfectly into my life as a scientist, artist, and writer.

Originally hailing from New Jersey, I attended Elizabethtown College in central Pennsylvania to receive my bachelor's degree in English literature with a biology minor. I gained valuable experience as a scientist in Dr. Diane Bridge’s developmental biology lab, studying heat stress responses in two species of Hydra, but I ultimately determined that my intended career in medicine or biology was not the right choice for me. After deciding to instead pursue my skills in writing, my undergrad career culminated in a thesis project that combined all of my academic and personal interests, as I wrote and illustrated a 90-page graphic memoir—which, incidentally, would later form part of my BMC entrance portfolio.

Graduating from college in May 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic meant that my career path was uncertain for several years. After working a few odd jobs, including a stint as a freelance mural artist and sole proprietor of my own art business, Grace Gibson Artwork, I turned my attention to returning to school and reigniting my passions for art and science. I’m thrilled to be entering a field that excites me and combines some of my greatest lifelong interests, and I look forward to building a career that can help advance healthcare access and knowledge to the general public. After BMC, my current career goal is to work in patient outreach related to LGBTQ healthcare, helping members of my community access critical and life-saving care.

When I’m not busy with schoolwork, I enjoy reading fiction, oil painting, playing tabletop roleplaying games, learning about aviation, and listening to music.

+ Qingyue Guo, B.Sc.

Instagram: @qiy_o_0

During my undergraduate studies in Microbiology and Immunology at the University of British Columbia (UBC), I discovered my passion for translating scientific ideas into accessible visuals. From creating infographics and illustrations about microbes and diseases, I have found that visual elements not only enhance understanding and engagement but also adds aesthetic appeal.

One of my most rewarding experiences was working on a team project to redesign a website for UBC's Faculty of Medicine body donation program. My role involved transforming heartfelt narratives from donors and their families, as well as insights from medical students and faculty into illustrations, portraits and GIFs. Our team’s collaborative efforts resulted in a respectful and informative website design, providing empathetic guidance and support to potential donors and raising public awareness. This project deepened my appreciation for the power of human centered design.

My current interests are in storytelling through graphic medicine and media design. My goal is to develop these skills in biomedical communication with support from faculty and peers. I aspire to create visuals that bridge the gap between professionals and broader audiences, fostering understanding of biomedical topics globally.

+ Eve Higgins, B.H.Sc.

Website: www.emhiggins.ca

Instagram: @eveningdraws

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/eve-higgins-335a5126b

My first step into an academic career focused on health research and communication during the completion of my BHSc (Hon) in biomedical sciences. Over the course of my degree, I relied on diagrams and videos to learn course content, which lead to prompted interest in scientific communication. My interest in scientific communication was solidified by my honours thesis with Dr. Jack Chu at the University of Calgary where I investigated the WNT signaling pathway in porcine induced pluripotent stem cells. While writing my thesis, and creating presentations, I created visuals to improve the communication of my research. Since my topic delved into complex molecular pathways and interactions, I had to understand my findings and the research methods at a high level to critically think about my data so that I could create well-rounded, accurate figures. As a result, I realized how large the disconnect was with presented data and its interpretation, both to lay audiences and academics, and the importance of visuals in presenting new ideas and research.

After graduation I spent time working as a research technician in in Dr. Derek McKay’s lab at the University of Calgary, studying the role of alternatively activated macrophages in inflammatory bowel disease. This position allowed me to compliment my molecular biology experience with additional training in immunology and gastrointestinal physiology, while providing me the opportunity to create published figures to conceptualize the lab’s research. In addition to creating these figures, I illustrated figures for a workbook studying pregnancy, parenting, and child development. Rather than developing figures for an academic audience, this project allowed me to create illustrations for patients and explore medical communications for a non-academic audience.

Together, these experiences have allowed me to transform raw data into visualizations which allow me to communicate scientific concepts in a way words cannot. With these experiences, my goal is to work in collaboration with medical researchers to help everyone access great science regardless of background.

+ Ravneet Jaura, Hons. B.Sc.

Website: www.ravneetjaura.com

Instagram: @artby_reetu

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ravneetjaura

Upon graduating with an Honours Bachelor of Science in Biology for Health Science and Chemistry at the University of Toronto in 2019, I knew there was a missing part to my soul as I embarked on the next chapter in my life. I had left behind my artistic aspirations in high school and continued scientific research during undergrad. Post-graduation, I gained fascinating molecular biology wet lab skills under the supervision of Dr. Ho-Sung Rhee at the University of Toronto Mississauga. Our collaborative efforts led to the successful publication of the research investigating extended intergenic DNA and its contribution to neuron-specific expression of neighboring genes in the mammalian nervous system, published in 2022.

Despite feeling accomplished, I continued to nurture my passion for art as a hobby while advancing my career as a Scientist in Biology at Dalriada Drug Discovery in 2020. During this time, I experienced an internal struggle, feeling torn between my scientific work and my artistic calling. To reconcile this, I dedicated more time to drawing and discovered a growing interest in the MScBMC program. Eager to explore the field of medical illustration, I completed the 'Biomedical Visualization & Communication' (BMVC) program at the University of British Columbia while working full-time. Through the program’s capstone project, I gained a deeper understanding of interactive design, UX/UI research and design.

My increased self-confidence, and acquired knowledge from BMVC, encouraged me to voice my interest in science communication to my manager. I experienced a genuine sense of fulfillment in contributing to my workplace through my artistic passions as I created a poster and interactive learning module, communicating contamination level 2 lab standards for the scientists. The experience of bringing a fresh perspective on how information was conveyed in the workplace, sparked the desire to dive deeper into science communication and make a meaningful impact on broader audiences.

Now, as a student in the MScBMC program, I am thrilled to be learning from the exceptional faculty and my talented peers. I truly feel like I am re-sparking my soul with all the knowledge and skills I am acquiring. I am particularly excited to develop a strong skill set in 3D animation and interactive design. Besides design knowledge, I aspire to explore the business side of freelancing as a medical illustrator. I have consistently strived to enhance my artistic skills, foster deeper connections and add more authenticity to my work over the last few years, which I would like to continue to carry towards in my medical illustrations.

Outside of all my career and school pursuits, I find joy in simple pleasures - sipping hot tea while listening to the rain, reading a self-development book or watching a K-drama. I enjoy practicing yoga, going on nature walks (specifically to catch the sunset) and meditating to stay grounded.

+ Winter Kraemer, Hons. B.Sc.

Website: Portfolio

Instagram: @agent.of.rot

What is more rewarding than clearly communicating an idea? What could be more affirming than truly being heard?

I entered the field of biomedical communications to help serve the transgender and gender diverse community, one which is often underrepresented and as a result, misunderstood. There is a sore lack of resources for practitioners and patients when it comes to trans healthcare and I am motivated to use my skill set as an artist, scientist, and storyteller to improve the health and wellbeing of my community. My love of animals led me to study Animal Biology at the University of Guelph, where I intended to pursue veterinary medicine. My goals shifted as I discovered that post-secondary education has no shortage of communication gaps, many of which I was eager to bridge. I saw the Biomedical Communications program as a pathway to this progress and began working towards it in earnest through an array of courses and extracurriculars.

During my tenure as the president of SciArt club, I gained invaluable experience in team leadership, secured grants for sustainability initiatives, and fostered community involvement. In an effort to improve accessibility in research, I took on projects for animal welfare, entomology, and anthropology laboratories. This work honed my skills in clarifying research findings and making science more accessible to a lay audience.

My position as an artist-in-residence in the lab of Dr. John Barta at the Ontario Veterinary College was some of my most fulfilling work. Having taken his parasitology course, I recognized a gap in the availability of the course material, alongside surprisingly sparse digital resources. With a combination of his expertise and my experience in the course, I illustrated life cycles for over thirty groups of parasites, keeping accessibility at the forefront of my design process. The result was a more comprehensive, approachable learning tool with improved outcomes for veterinary and undergraduate students.

I find the intersection of art and science endlessly inspiring, both for the creative problem-solving it requires and the connections it fosters. My current research interests include the use of graphic medicine for patient and practitioner education, natural illustration for identification of endangered species, and improving accessibility of veterinary medicine research.

+ Shanghar Roy Kulananthan, Hons. B.Sc., B.Sc. (MRS)

Website: Portfolio

I am currently an MScBMC student in the class of 2T6. I completed my Bachelor of Science degree at University of Toronto (double major in Biology and Human Biology, with a minor in Physiology), and then pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Medical Radiation Sciences at the Michener Institute of Applied Health. I was attracted to the field of medical imaging due to the integration of technology and science and its practical uses in our lives. Working as a front-line X-ray/CT technologist in the Emergency Department for over 8 years, I learned a lot and gained a greater appreciation for the importance of using various methods of effective communication as a tool to convey medical information to patients, their families, and other healthcare staff. My journey continued from there, as I wanted to further explore the use of visual media in conveying scientific information. With that in mind, I joined the BMC program at UofT. I hope to use the skills and experiences I learn from the faculty and my peers in this program to forge productive and rewarding relationships with others in the medical illustration/animation community.

+ Athena Li, Hons. B.H.Sc.

Instagram: @athe_nah_art (personal art) | @athna.stomosis (BMC creations)

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/athena-li-919b36329

Hello there! I’m Athena, aspiring biomedical communicator, born-and-raised in the suburbs of the GTA.

In a not-so-past life, I studied Health Sciences at McMaster University. As an undergraduate student, I dabbled in several fields of clinical and pedagogical research, including topics in psychosocial cancer care, undergraduate medical pedagogy, and anatomy education. Between these projects, I got the opportunity to involve myself in the research process in its entirety, from conceptualization to presentation. The challenges I encountered during these experiences introduced me to the nuances of scientific communication— particularly, the importance of elegant yet accurate story telling, as well as the unique power of visual representations of data.

Towards the end of my undergraduate studies, I stumbled into the world of anatomy education and took on various roles with McMaster’s Education Program in Anatomy. In the teaching and learning of anatomy, I encountered the various 2D and 3D translations of the human body and became fascinated by the interplay between illustrative design, practical implications for source material and audience, and educational efficacy outcomes.

In cumulation, I came to see visual scientific communication as an immensely empowering and thought-provoking tool for relaying complex information to targeted audiences. My current academic interests remain in pedagogy and educational knowledge translation for student and/or patient populations.

When I am not academically occupied, you can most likely find me climbing artificial rocks, drawing or crafting for fun, cafe-hoping with friends, or aggressively taking photos of life’s beautiful and mundane things (though I would not dare call myself a photographer).

+ Vicky Lin, B.Sc.

Website: Portfolio

Instagram: @viyxlin

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lin-vicky

My introduction to scientific and biomedical communications started early on. Growing up in a working-class immigrant family, my parents’ long working hours often left me alone with only the stacks of thrifted books to keep me company. I always marveled at the intricate drawings in my illustrated encyclopedias and biology textbooks, captivated by how complex scientific concepts could be brought to life through the power of visuals. Through the countless hours my younger self spent poring over these pages, it spoke to me that this was what I wanted to do — to translate the complexities of science into visually accessible narratives.

This fascination grew during my undergraduate studies in Biology at McMaster University, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when I experienced first-hand the critical role of scientific communication in the dissemination, understanding and effectiveness of public health information and its recognition by the general populace. This inspired me to explore the way art and design can be used to enhance and influence how audiences interact with media, which led me to work for The Silhouette, McMaster University’s student-run campus newspaper, as a multimedia and communications coordinator. The opportunity to work closely with writers and editors to create diverse graphics and illustrations that captured the unique voices of my peers further instilled my passion for knowledge translation and thus, became a guiding force throughout my academic journey.

Since discovering the BMC program at the University of Toronto, I realized my passion for art and dedication to science were not mutually exclusive; in fact, they were perfectly aligned! I am excited to further develop my artistic toolbox and biomedical communication skills as part of the BMC family to hopefully inspire others about scientific topics through compelling works of visual media — just as I was inspired years ago.

+ Bridget Lu, B.F.A. (Hons.)

Website: Portfolio

Instagram: @bridglu

To hone a skill to a high level is to "get it down to a science", or to "turn it into an art form". Whether the phrases are describing making macarons or mastering micro-pipetting, they imply a pursuit of elegance, mastery, and communication. This intersection between science and art has held my interest since high school, inspiring me to apply to the Biomedical Communications program.

I graduated from OCAD University with a Bachelor's of Fine Arts and a minor in illustration. My formal art training allows me to create and problem-solve across a wide range of media, from ceramics to 3D animation. During a comparative anatomy course, I met and worked closely with Dr. Stephen Tulk, a doctor, artist, anatomy professor, and former graduate of the BMC program. His guidance and experience fueled my desire to pursue a graduate degree in BMC, and a sketching field trip to U of T's anatomy division and Grant's museum solidified my plans to apply.

Since completing my undergraduate degree, I have worked as a technical illustrator at Quantum Valley Ideas Lab in Waterloo. My position requires me to visually communicate complex quantum science to shareholders, government, and the general public. I work directly with scientists and engineers to create graphics for papers, patents, and presentations. With each illustration, I further appreciate how important art is to science, especially in a field like physics where there are no concrete visualizations for most concepts. My boss, a physicist, always asked me to make my drawings "cooler" and "fancier", his way of saying that art can make people believe in something- even if that something is as small as an atom.

In the future, I hope to continue to hone my skills as an artist and scientific communicator, particularly to industry partners. I am interested in working with 3D modelling and animation to explore topics such as chronic pain and injury, and expand my skills as a graphic designer.

+ Jinny Moon, B.Sc.

Website: Portfolio

Instagram: @jmoon.vis

My appreciation for storytelling—in all its forms, visual, verbal, or written—not only underpins my goals as an aspiring biomedical communicator but also led me to pursue this field from the start.

While completing my BSc in Anatomy & Cell Biology at McGill University, I quickly recognized that my most memorable classes had something in common: each professor was a skilled storyteller, weaving intricate concepts into approachable narratives that still managed to engage their students. This left a profound impression on me, fueling my own desire to explore the art of storytelling within science.

As Design Editor for The Tribune, a student-run news publication at McGill, I delved into storytelling through a journalistic lens, experiencing firsthand the nuanced process of writing, editing, and visually communicating narratives that resonate with readers. Each project solidified my commitment to bridging complex ideas with accessible, engaging visuals.

Beyond academia, my passion for storytelling and communication has been shaped by my favourite movies, music, and television, along with hands-on experience in UX research and usability testing. The prospect of creating visual stories that foster scientific literacy and bring clarity to topics in health and medicine is incredibly motivating. At BMC and beyond, I’m excited to refine my skills in illustration, 3D modeling, and animation, embracing both new and familiar mediums as I grow as a biomedical communicator.

+ Beverly Ng, Hons. B.H.Sc.

Website: Portfolio

Instagram: @bng.visuals

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/beverly-ng-b30a8176

Science is often presented in ways that are difficult to understand, turning many people away—my past self included. As a scientific communicator, I aim to challenge the current narrative by translating data into engaging stories that excite, educate, and inspire curiosity.

I graduated from McMaster University in May 2023 with a BHSc in Biochemistry. Throughout my undergrad, I found the biochemical processes of the human body fascinating, pursuing studies in immunology and metabolism. I also experienced firsthand the complexity of these topics, which emphasized the need for clear and accessible educational resources, especially in fields with rapid research growth. My goal is to create media that translates breakthroughs in immunology, metabolism, and related pathologies into visually compelling, narrative-driven illustrations and animations.

I am grateful to be part of the MScBMC program and am excited to develop my skills in research and visual communication alongside my accomplished peers and professors.

In my free time, I enjoy reading a good book, playing with my cat, and snowboarding.

+ Josip Petrusa, B.Sc.

Website: Portfolio

Instagram: @jpetrusavisuals

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/josip-petrusa

During my Honours Bachelor of Science (BSc) at McMaster University, I came to appreciate the key role clear communication plays in understanding and applying new concepts. In my biology research major, I found that many complex ideas were more effectively understood through the use of visuals. Additionally, pursuing a minor in English and Cultural Studies allowed me to explore diverse literature from different time periods and cultures, which deepened my understanding of how effective communication can make complex or novel ideas more accessible.

In my later undergraduate years, I grew interested in understanding how visuals could be used in education, particularly in science. In the Stone Laboratory at McMaster University, under the supervision of Dr. Jonathon Stone, I completed a research project which investigated the use of illustrations in teaching undergraduate students developmental biology concepts. This project involved the creation of various sets of illustrations depicting sea urchin larval development based on lab observations. Illustrations were presented to students through a randomized online survey to investigate their understanding of sea urchin larval development when presented with textual versus visual information. We demonstrated that on average, students showed higher levels of understanding when presented with visual information as opposed to textual information. Through this project, I gained a deeper understanding of the application of visuals in science education, as well as research in this field.

During my time in the MScBMC program, I look forward to learning new ways to represent complex scientific concepts visually. In particular, I am interested in exploring biomolecular visualization techniques; I hope to further explore how visuals might be applied to help students better understand concepts in the biomolecular sciences. In the future, I aspire to work on projects involving the creation of visuals for use in science education and plan to pursue further research in this field.

+ Cynthia Pham, B.Sc.

Instagram: @cynitchiart

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/cynthia-pham18

As someone who had always felt uncertain about my career aspirations due to fluctuating interests, discovering the BMC program at the end of my third year of undergraduate studies was pivotal.

While I’ve always found joy in both expressing my creativity through drawing and learning about the natural world, I chose to prioritize the sciences and pursued my studies at the University of Toronto with an Honours Bachelor of Science, double majoring in Ecology & Evolutionary Biology and Animal Physiology.

My fascination with animals initially led me to prepare for a career in veterinary medicine. With three years of experience as a veterinary assistant, I had the privilege of observing various surgeries and meeting countless wonderful companion animals. However, I frequently noticed communication challenges in the clinic, particularly due to the surge of new pet owners during the COVID-19 pandemic, where client education gaps often created a disconnect that a practitioner couldn’t fully bridge alone. Reflecting on this, I found myself drawn less to veterinary practice and more to the idea of enhancing understanding through visual communication. This realization deepened during my role within UHN’s Centre for Mental Health, where I became increasingly aware of the need for effective patient education to bridge communication gaps. Motivated to revisit my creative roots, I embarked on my journey to become a medical illustrator and scientific communicator.

I am thrilled to join the BMC program, where a supportive community of amazing faculty and talented peers fosters an environment for growth and learning. My current interests include visual storytelling to make healthcare information more accessible, enhancing patient education, and promoting diversity in medical illustration. I’m especially excited to explore areas like 2D and 3D animation, graphic medicine, and interactive media, developing skills that will allow me to engage diverse audiences through compelling, accessible, and inclusive visuals.

+ Raymond Zhang, Hons. B.H.Sc.

Website: https://helloimraymond.github.io/

During my four years of undergraduate studies in the health sciences at McMaster University, I explored various biomedical topics in my courses and thesis work, with a particular emphasis on immunology, biochemistry and cell biology. Visual aids played a crucial role in enhancing my understanding of complex scientific concepts, and this experience deepened my appreciation for the contributions of medical illustrators and science communicators. I am also grateful to have studied under professors and mentors who fostered creativity in my learning, encouraging the use of visual abstracts and scientific posters to convey intricate ideas.

Upon graduating in 2024, my deep-rooted passion for the visual arts, combined with a strong interest in the biological sciences, pushed me to pursue an MSc in Biomedical Communications. I am excited to further explore how the incorporation of visual storytelling in science communication can create impactful solutions and contribute to meaningful advancements in the field.

+ Kelsey Ying-xiao Zhao, B.Sc.

I discovered the BMC program in the last year of my Health Science BSc at the University of Waterloo. I had been working towards a career in the health field and had never even considered that it could be combined with my lifelong love and affinity for art. So when BMC fell into my lap, I knew immediately that it was the right path.

I started putting my application to BMC together while working with Dr. Janice Eng and an incredible team of researchers, clinicians, and people with lived experience of spinal cord injury on the SCIRE Project. I developed evidence-based articles, videos, illustrations and infographics to help make the complicated research on spinal cord injury easy to understand. Throughout my undergraduate studies, I have also had opportunities to work on community-led Indigenous health research, 2SLGBTQIA+ advocacy initiatives, and science communication projects. It has become clear to me that there is an immense gap between research and people/communities, and that the communication of knowledge to bridge that gap must be accurate, appropriate, transparent, and built on trust. I want to carry those qualities into my work as a visual artist and communicator.

I’m looking forward to diving into the world of medical illustration and building my skills under the mentorship of the talented faculty at BMC. Currently, I am interested in the educational and therapeutic applications of interactive media, as well as the potential for medical visualizations to improve access to healthcare for marginalized communities.

+ Cathy Zhou, B.Sc.

Instagram: @czhou.illust

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/cathy-zhou-127475242

I am an illustrator from Calgary, Alberta, and I pursued a bachelor’s degree as a specialist in Pharmacology and Toxicology at the University of Toronto. I had made the decision to move away from art entirely and only pursue sciences, but during my undergraduate degree, I found myself being drawn back towards illustration. As I wanted to reconcile what I learned in my degree with my growing passion towards the arts, the BMC program was perfect for me. It is such an honour to be working and learning among such talented faculty, staff, and group of classmates!

My research project specifically detailing the characterization of behavioural phenotypes in patient derived mouse models with GRIN Disorder. I realized that it was difficult to fully explain my research in just words while I was writing my final thesis. Especially because the disorder specifically affected children, manifesting as a rare disease, I found it especially important to properly communicate findings so the parents of these children could easily understand our findings. I am particularly interested in visualizing and communicating vital information about pharmacology and toxicology because it is essential for everyone, including the general public, other scientists, and investors to fully understand drugs effects and targets, and the topic can be somewhat difficult to explain using just words. My passion is to better communicate pharmacological concepts to the general public.

In my free time, I love video games, books, movies, and animated series! You can find me tabling at markets and conventions, selling fan art and originals alike.

+ Anthony Bortolin, B.Sc.

Instagram: @bortolin.visuals

LinkedIn: Anthony Bortolin

My high school art teacher was the first person to show me that illustration could be more than just a hobby; he helped me uncover a talent and passion I hadn’t realized I had. That foundation carried me through university, where I pursued science while continuing to create. When I discovered Biomedical Communications through a BMC animation shown in my molecular biology course, I realized I had found a field where my scientific training and artistic drive could finally intersect.

I completed my bachelor of science in human biology at the University of Toronto and worked as a clinical research assistant with Dr. Maryam Razaghi at Mount Sinai Hospital, studying the differences between donor milk and formula in infants at risk of supplementation. Beyond research, I designed participant completion certificates, engagement posters, and filmed an instructional video. My creative work for this research study further solidified my interest in creating visualizations to communicate science.

Now, as a MScBMC student, I am excited to expand my skills in visualization and explore new techniques and software under the guidance of the program’s accomplished faculty. I am particularly drawn to 3D modeling for the opportunity to create interactive structures that allow users to manipulate and explore complex biomedical concepts.

When I am not studying or creating art, you can find me on the ice playing hockey or on the golf course mastering my swing.

+ Sabrina Chen, B.Sc.

Instagram: @sabrinaspchen

LinkedIn: Sabrina Chen

During my time in the MScBMC program, I would like to continue building my illustration and visual storytelling skillset, and I am particularly excited to learn about interactive design. I want to explore its utility in making science accessible by helping generalist audiences access complex scientific knowledge so they can make the most informed decisions for themselves.

I majored in biology for health sciences and minored in biomedical communications at the University of Toronto. BMC piqued my interest in the design of interactive resources for medical communication. I incorporated art into my studies by taking courses at Sheridan College. I created visual aids to study for classes like anatomy and physiology. I pursued creative roles in science-focused clubs like the Erindale Biology Society and Science Communication Club.

Throughout university, I was challenged by the academic articles and complex visual aids I encountered. Through these challenges I saw the potential for using visuals in science communication to share scientific research with the public. I dedicated my undergraduate career to improving science communication efforts across UofT. I conducted research with Professors Christoph Richter, Jodie Jenkinson, and Sanja Hinic-Frlog to investigate undergraduate UTM Biology students’ visual literacy skills, experiences using visual aids, and explore alternative ways of visually communicating complex biology topics.

I was involved with Erindale Biology Society for three years in design and advertising roles. As Advertising Director, I spearheaded efforts to increase accessibility of the club’s Instagram page. I was also an illustrator for the Science Communication Club, which produced accessible media for the public on emerging STEM topics. Through my club experiences, I gained practical skills in visually communicating science and storytelling.

While at BMC, I hope to hone my visual communication skillset and explore the potentials of biomedical visual communication with the support of faculty and my peers.

+ Winnie Chen, B.A.S., MBS

Instagram: @winniemedical

I'm a science communicator online, designer, and entrepreneur passionate about helping medical professionals communicate their ideas to a wider audience. In an age where attention is scarce and AI art exists, misinformation is prone to happen. So that’s why I aim to combine storytelling, marketing and art with scientific concepts to make learning exciting and accessible. Before BMC, I started a business, Unistyl, which sold over 13,000 units of merchandise like clothing, stickers, and illustrations centered around science. You may have seen us at Canada’s National Exhibit! Additionally, I’ve previously worked at Designs That Cell for scientific logos, collaborated with Dr. Vickaryous to design study material for undergraduate students and vet students and I worked with Dr. Bartlewski at the University of Guelph to create a series of illustrations for the paper Hormonal and cytomorphological influences on the primary and secondary sex ratio in mammals. I am interested in medical marketing and networking with medical professionals in different fields. In my free time I love hosting picnics and meeting new people! Want to chat? Reach out on my instagram: @winniemedical

+ Allan Chung, B.Sc., B.Sc.N.

Instagram: @jialunart

LinkedIn: Allan Chung

Bluesky: @jialunart

X: @jialunart

Working as a nurse, I frequently educated patients on managing symptoms, recovering after therapy and knowing when to seek emergency care. To support their understanding, I often supplemented conversations with brochures and figures, ensuring they could remain informed and engaged in their treatment. This experience helped me recognize the power of clear visual communication and how bridging the gap between complex science and accessible education can improve patient outcomes while fostering greater scientific literacy.

I first studied life science at McMaster University, where I learned the theoretical side of science. Post-grad, I studied nursing at Nipissing University, which allowed me to apply this knowledge in clinical settings. I have had the privilege of caring for patients of all ages, from newborns to older adults, and learning the unique considerations that come with each stage of life. In doing so, I developed strong communication skills while collaborating with patients, clinicians, and scientists, always mindful of barriers to care such as language, culture, identity, and socioeconomic factors.

My academic and clinical experiences complement the field of biomedical visualization and reinforced my determination to shift from being a consumer of art to a producer. My goal is to make science and medicine literacy and visualization accessible for everyone and explore how I can bring this to non-English speaking populations. I also want to find a way to intersect what got me into art–games, comics and animations–to make science engaging and entertaining.

In my free time, I am working to improve my French, Cantonese and Mandarin. Music is also a passion of mine, as I play the erhu and guitar, and I hope to learn new instruments, singing and composition. And of course, games, especially turn-based RPGs, which inspire my appreciation for narrative, design and immersive storytelling.

+ Allison Conwell, B.A.

Instagram: @allies_digital_portfolio

Science museums have always intrigued me. Their ability to launch the viewer into complex scientific topics in a creative and immersive way always left a lasting impression. As a result, I began implementing my fine art and graphic design skill sets to enhance scientific communication in my classwork and independent research projects. Studying both biology and studio art with a focus in communication design at Skidmore College, I developed a strong foundation in information design and integrative biology. I bring these skills with me as I enter the Master of Science in Biomedical Communications at the University of Toronto.

My interest in using art and design to support scientific education led me to create my senior thesis exhibition, Through the Microscope. The goal of this work was to immerse viewers in the microscopic world by illustrating microbes at a larger-than-life scale. The exhibition featured 13 digital prints, each approximately 3.5 ft wide by 5 ft tall, as well as a four-panel microbe guide. This project gave me valuable experience in creating scientific illustrations aimed at a non-scientific audience. It challenged me to entice viewers to learn about the microbial world by creating an immersive environment similar to exhibitions within a science museum. After completing my installation, I gained insight into the needs of various audiences and how thoughtful design choices can make scientific content accessible and engaging.

Eye-catching and creative designs have the ability to stand out within a sea of information and leave a meaningful impact that improves scientific literacy. As a medical illustrator, I aim to bridge scientific communication with visual storytelling that welcomes diverse audiences. I look forward to continuing to develop my practice that brings curiosity and abstraction to scientific discovery.

+ Chloe Friesen, B.F.A.

Instagram: @chloefriesen.art

As someone who has fostered a lifelong passion for science and art, I am very excited to unite my love for both fields through a career in medical illustration. In 2024, I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Alberta in art and design. Through my artistic studies I developed accurate drawing skills with high attention to detail, as well as established strong visual problem-solving abilities. In my biology courses, I gained a great appreciation for the sciences and the vital role illustrations play in fostering learning and understanding. There were many instances where creating illustrations helped me to synthesize information, and communicate concepts to classmates.

Following graduation, I spent a year working as a veterinary assistant. This exposure to the veterinary industry further fueled my interest in biomedical communications, as I observed the practical application of illustrations. As such, I am particularly excited by the application of medical illustration in a healthcare setting. Looking forward, I am eager to contribute to this field through the creation of high-quality visuals that support advancements in medicine, healthcare, and wherever else there is a need.

+ Heidi Herbawi, B.A.

Instagram: @heidis_illustrations

LinkedIn: Heidi Herbawi

I am a fourth-generation scientist-artist whose family immigrated to the United States from Leipzig, Germany—the birthplace of modern medical illustration and the home of Max Brödel.

As a graduate student in the BMC program, I am interested in advancing my skills in 3D animation and 3D sculpting to solve communication challenges in patient education and biomedical publishing.

Having benefited from unschooling–a learner-led form of homeschooling that emphasizes curiosity and self-direction–I entered college with a deep sense of independence and adaptability. At Arcadia University, I received my B.A. in scientific illustration, where my senior thesis, Strigiformes: Anatomy, Adaptations, and Behavior, was completed in collaboration with the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia. I was able to conduct research on morphology and directly observe stuffed and cadaveric owl specimens provided by the ornithology collections manager, Dr. Nate Rice. This project combined natural history with anatomical visualization to highlight how owls’ physical adaptations shape their behavior, and produced work that is accessible to audiences ranging from laypersons to avian specialists.

After graduation, I transitioned from illustration to hands-on research, working as a technician in Dr. Leonard Guarente’s laboratory in the Department of Biology at MIT. There, I contributed to projects on dysferlinopathy, specifically limb-girdle muscular dystrophy. My work included maintaining mouse myoblast cell cultures, performing flow cytometry, conducting oral gavage, carrying out animal euthanasia, and dissecting muscular tissue.

My passion and long-term goal lies within education on women’s health through biomedical visualization. I am particularly motivated to highlight areas that remain under-researched or underrepresented, such as endometriosis, premenopause/menopause, and postpartum health. By creating visuals that clarify mechanisms, symptoms, and treatments, I hope to support both patient education and clinical understanding.

Beyond academia, I can hopefully be found traveling the world, documenting and illustrating as many rare bird species as I can find to add to my life list! I am also incredibly fond of baking, figure skating, bird-watching, cooking, botany, mycology, organizing, and painting the natural world in watercolor.

+ Sarah Ching Lam Kung, B.Sc.

Instagram: @artbyskcl

Freshly graduated with First Class Honours in anatomical sciences from the University of Dundee, I am thrilled to dive right into the MScBMC program, driven by a deep appreciation for the beauty and intricacies of human anatomy. My fascination with anatomy lies in its enduring complexity—despite centuries of study, research continues to reveal novel insights which advance the medical field. In this context, visual communication plays a vital role in transforming research data into accessible knowledge for both medical professionals and laypeople. I aspire to become a vital piece of the puzzle—ensuring that new scientific and medical discoveries are not only seen, but also understood and applied to improve lives.

My commitment to academic excellence naturally led me to develop an interest in optimising learning and teaching methods in medical education. I experienced first-hand the importance of visualisations in describing and explaining anatomy. This inspired my undergraduate honours thesis Beyond Visual Accuracy–The Role of Realism Across Learning Contexts in which I examined how varying levels of realism in anatomical illustrations may help or hinder students in different learning modes. This project deepened my research skills, as well as my conviction that biomedical communication is the right path for me—not just as a visual communicator, but as a researcher and educator.

Through the MScBMC program, I aim not only to produce visually-striking work, but also to master design principles which maximise the didactic value of my visualisations. I am excited to hone my skills in illustration, 3D modelling and animation, as well as develop an eye for captivating graphic designs in order to serve my goal—to become a researcher and educator equipped with the powerful tools of visual communication, and see that new scientific and medical knowledge reaches a diverse set of audiences in a meaningful and impactful way.

Outside of BMC, I am most likely to be found on a volleyball court, at the gym, looking for new and fun things to do with friends around Toronto, or cheffing up my next delicious lunchbox to bring to class!

+ Yifeng (Yvonne) Ma, B.F.A.

Instagram: @yvonne_art233

LinkedIn: Yvonne Ma

I was born and raised in Shanghai, China, and have since studied and lived in multiple countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. These experiences have shaped my perspective and strengthened my ability to learn from diverse cultures and ways of thinking. They also inspired my path as a medical illustrator—combining skills in both art and science to serve as a bridge for communication across disciplines and communities.

I graduated from the Art Center College of Design in August 2024 with a BFA in Illustration. After graduation, I worked as an IP designer at a game company in Shenzhen, where I specialized in digital design and painting, including character design, background art, and prop design. I have always been deeply interested in science and have studied it alongside my art training, building a foundation that complements my artistic skills.

As someone with international experience, I value communication not only through language but also through imagery and emotion. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of the MScBMC program at the University of Toronto, where I look forward to advancing my knowledge in both science and art. My goal is to become a professional medical illustrator, collaborating across fields to create visual work that helps people better understand and communicate complex ideas.

+ Massa Mohamed Ali, B.Sc.

Website: www.massastudios.com

Instagram: @massastudios

LinkedIn: Massa Mohamed Ali

After earning my Bachelor of Science degree with a specialist in neuroscience and a minor in biology from the University of Toronto, I realized I didn’t want to limit myself to a single discipline. I wanted to bring all my skills—writing, research, communication, drawing, and painting—together into something purposeful, meaningful, and beneficial to others. This, along with launching my own art brand after graduating, led me to the Master of Science in Biomedical Communications program.

My goal is to bridge the gap between scientific research and the public by making science accessible to diverse audiences, countering misinformation, and empowering informed health decisions. From co-authoring a collection of books and writing scientific article summaries to interviewing world-renowned neuroscientist Dr. Wendy Suzuki, I have explored many ways of communicating science to spark curiosity and deepen understanding. I was particularly inspired after I created a comic explaining long-term potentiation during language learning in one of my writing courses in undergrad. I saw firsthand the impact of visual storytelling and simplifying complex neuroscience concepts for others in a fun yet informative way.

I was also inspired by the Life of a Neuron exhibit in New York City. This immersive experience provided visual explanations through 3D animations and interactive displays, summarizing decades of neuroscience research in an engaging and understandable way. It confirmed for me that while writing can clarify science, pairing it with visuals makes the message more memorable and impactful.

The MScBMC program offers the perfect opportunity to combine all my strengths, master new techniques, and explore creative ways to depict science. I am eager to use my skills to create scientifically accurate visual stories that resonate with others and inspire them to appreciate the beauty of science when it is communicated effectively.

+ Vanessa Recine, B.Sc.

Instagram: @valeitta

LinkedIn: Vanessa Recine

As a graduate student in the MScBMC program, I aim to develop and refine my skills in 3D animation and interactive media design. Using these skills, I hope to partner with educational institutions, studios, hospitals, and health organizations to produce visual tools for both student and patient education. Additionally, I believe in the power of graphic medicine to share the emotional and psychological impacts that illness can have on our lives. I want to use my illustration and visual storytelling skills to create comics that spread awareness about disease, make others suffering in silence feel heard, and connect us to one another.

Before coming to BMC, I studied human biology and psychology at the University of Toronto. While there, I thought deeply about what I wanted in life. I saw myself teaching science rather than doing it. I saw myself creating artwork that is purposeful and influential in some way. I saw myself helping others, but I was unsure of the avenue to take to do this. I often wondered how I could incorporate all these aspirations into my life. It wasn’t until a spontaneous Google search one day that I discovered the MScBMC program. Looking at several of the students’ portfolios, I thought, “Bingo.”

I hadn’t realized up until that moment and onward how incredibly important visuals are for teaching scientific concepts. I thought about the classes I took—anatomy, embryology, genetics, biochemistry, cellular biology—and how I’d have been lost without pictures and diagrams. I also thought about times that these visuals failed to serve their purpose and made me confused. It is through these experiences that I have come to understand that successful comprehension of a scientific illustration heavily depends on accuracy, aesthetics, and readability.

Ultimately, I decided to enter the field of visual science communication because of my desire to use art to impact others—to educate them, make them think, reflect, or feel something. I am excited to bring this vision to life while working alongside a talented group of aspiring biomedical communicators.

+ Chenxuan Tao, B.Sc.

Instagram: @chenx_art

LinkedIn: Chenxuan Tao

I completed my bachelor of science at Beijing Sports University where I majored in sport rehabilitation.

As an undergraduate student, I was attracted to and learned from multiple English-language diagrams and clinical graphics. Unfortunately, there weren't many, or current, medical visualization resources in China. What inspired me to become a biomedical illustrator is the passion and drive to improve this situation.

Through my program's clinical placements, I worked with professors in my program and medical professionals in the National Institute of Sports Medicine to create graphics as part of the therapeutic process to engage patients in their own critical rehabilitation. This is where I saw that communication and patient education are key for well-being and optimal patient outcomes–and that visualization is the most effective tool to achieve that goal.

I am excited to be part of the MScBMC Class of 2027. Currently, my academic interest is focussed on both interactive design and communication graphics. I’m also interested in art history, zoological and botanical art.

+ Joanna Tien, B.Sc.

Instagram: @tienj.studio

I graduated from the University of Guelph with a major in zoology and a minor in computing and information science. On my journey here, I had to read many scientific articles, and this I often found difficult, boring, and time consuming. One day, I had the opportunity to create a media piece to highlight a research article’s findings for one of my projects. While working on this project, I realized that this was both a fun and difficult challenge. To me, visual graphics are so much more engaging, easier to understand, and more memorable than pages and pages of scientific writing. This, alongside an extra-curricular activity in presenting short scientific lectures to young children, showed me that effectively communicating scientific knowledge was extremely rewarding but achieving is not at all as simple as I thought it would be.

I am excited to learn 3D animation skills, storytelling skills, and how to convey detailed information accurately in an accessible manner. I hope to use these skills gained in the MScBMC program to create storytelling pieces that inspire interest and wonder in the natural world and communicate medical knowledge to improve people’s quality of life.

In my spare time I love sketching, reading novels, and watching anime and documentaries. If I’m not indoors, I am probably outside looking for birds to photograph.

+ Kevin Trinh, B.Sc.

Instagram: @kvn.scrblz

I graduated from University of Toronto with an honours bachelor of science in biology for health sciences, and a double-minor in chemistry and biomedical communications. Although my undergraduate education focused on the sciences, my interest in the arts manifested in my studies as it felt intuitive to draw and use diagrams to conceptualize the study material. Additionally, I was given a glimpse of the MScBMC program and its curriculum through the biomedical communications (HSC) minor.

During my undergraduate studies, I explored and tinkered with a range of design software programs within the HSC courses. Most importantly, these courses deepened my understanding of intentional design choices and their impact on the target audience, particularly with accessibility and comprehension of the content. With this newfound knowledge, I found myself applying these concepts outside academia. As Vice-President of Marketing for the UTM Vietnamese Student Association, I experimented with the club’s event advertisements and educational posts focusing my attention on resonating with our community and captivating cultural newcomers. This increased attendance at club events and increased traffic on the club’s social platforms.

After graduating and while preparing my BMC application, I worked at Fossil where I designed an infographic to teach sales associates how to change a watch battery which was recognized and shared with other stores within the district. Both experiences made me realize that when information is presented clearly and is tailored to the intended demographic, it enhances audience comprehension and reception. The satisfaction of creating the infographics in these instances affirmed my decision to pursue the MScBMC program and the rest was history.

Now that I am a BMC student, I feel like I have come full circle. I am excited to venture into research while exploring graphic medicine and 3D animation! I hope to continue to refine my abilities to create effective visuals that communicate, educate, and connect with a diverse audience alongside my amazing cohort.

+ Sabrina Alejandra Viloria, B.Sc.

Instagram: @sabi.sciart

LinkedIn: Sabrina Viloria

My journey into biomedical communications began long before I joined the MScBMC program. Visual problem-solving has been a constant in my academic and creative experiences, shaping how I learn and communicate with others. This was a quality that my high school art teacher pointed out when I showed her the fascinating mechanisms of virus reproduction that I had drawn in my biology class. My early instinct to transform complex concepts into approachable stories eventually led her to introduce me to this innovative field, a path that I have pursued ever since.

While completing my BSc in biology at McMaster University, I was drawn to a wide range of topics spanning physiology, genetics, virology, and plant science. My academic experience solidified my foundation in science, while sparking my curiosity about how knowledge is effectively shared and understood.

Outside the classroom, I found opportunities to explore my abilities as a visual storyteller. As graphic designer for The Meducator, McMaster’s open-access Health Science Journal, I created infographics and illustrations that made emerging scientific research accessible and exciting to a wider student audience. A particularly meaningful project was The Body Issue, a separate publication to the journal made to highlight the underrepresentation of marginalized communities in medical illustration–a topic I am deeply passionate about.

As Chief Marketing Officer for the Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) club, I managed design, social media, and promotion of our yearly conference, and outreach campaigns to support women pursuing careers in STEM. These experiences further proved to me how collaborative goals in design and communication can amplify voices, spark conversation, target misinformation, and build community.

Now, as a student in the MScBMC program, I am excited to refine my skills in design, illustration, and emerging communication technologies while continuing to explore how creativity and clear visuals can shape the future of science communication and understanding.

+ Simin (Amanda) Wang, B.Sc.

Instagram: @simin.sees

Communication: The transmission of information between individuals. But as I’ve also come to understand, a crucial skill that can connect concepts and bridge together communities to foster greater strides in scientific research and the world as a whole.

I graduated from the University of Toronto with an honours bachelor of science, where I majored in biology for health sciences, and minored in biomedical communications and computer science. During the completion of my undergraduate degree, I witnessed firsthand the inaccessibility of scientific information, as brilliant and lifechanging discoveries were kept hidden behind layers of technical jargon and boring design. Through tutoring and study sessions, I sought to find ways to share knowledge with my peers, and in so doing, bring people together with our shared understanding of the subject matter. Particularly, my propensity for drawing diagrams for my own understanding aided me, and I learned the value of using cartoon graphics to simplify concepts into more palatable forms.

From there, I discovered the biomedical communications minor, where I learned various visualization techniques to further my communication goals. It also opened the door for me to MScBMC, where I am eager to continue learning and forever grateful for the opportunity to do so. Due to my combined interest in computer science and scientific communication, I love the idea of innovating on current visualization technologies, especially with the focus on digital media in current times. Be it through data visualizations, 3D models, or the design of interactive media, I look forward to experimenting on the points of connection between the two disciplines.

In combination with all of the above, I also have a passion for storytelling, as I enjoy spending my free time crafting adventures with my friends in DnD and other TTRPGs. When I’m not thinking up new ideas, I love diving into the creative and colourful worlds of other talented minds through reading books, watching shows, and playing video games.

+ Laura Wu, B.Sc., M.Sc.

Instagram: @wulaurart

LinkedIn: Laura Wu MSc

ONE of my strongest beliefs is that art is an instinctive element of human nature, threading itself into the fabric of storytelling, the building blocks of education, and the history of civilization. The intersection of visual communication with science, then, also comes naturally – especially to me, given the direction it has shaped my career during my quest for knowledge.

TWO academic degrees completed at McGill University – an MSc in experimental medicine, investigating the relationship between obesity, cancer, and the immune system in Dr. Daniela Quail’s lab; and a BSc in anatomy and cell biology, with an undergraduate NSERC project focusing on the role of interneurons in memory in Dr. Sylvain Williams’ lab – enabled me to hone a comprehensive set of skills encompassing critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and rigorous research. Here, it became obvious to me that the clear dissemination of novel concepts and scientific data using written words and visual aids is paramount to both successful teaching and learning, through textbooks, journal articles, or presentations, or during lab meetings, seminars, and conferences.

THREE additional opportunities strengthened my passion for visual communication. I currently work as a senior editorial assistant for a continuing medical education company, with firsthand knowledge of how educational programs are produced, and how outcomes and unmet needs spanning multiple therapeutic areas highlight significant knowledge deficits among clinicians. Previously, during my graduate degree at McGill, I edited journal articles and illustrated several covers for issues of the McGill Journal of Medicine, which provided insight on the delivery of scientific discoveries to various target audiences. Lastly, I created multipurpose illustrations for a non-profit organization to adapt to distinct narrative needs related to fostering intergenerational connections among vulnerable communities.

FOR now, though, I don several hats: a scientist. An artist. A traveler. An enjoyer of books, movies, TV shows, crafts, martial arts, and Pilates. The list goes on, but my goals are simple: to use visual tools to shrink gaps in scientific communication and to allow for a smoother flow of information and understanding. (Flexing my creative muscles is a bonus!) I am eager to develop new skills and learn as much as I can in the BMC program, and specifically, I’d like to explore 3D media and interactive design as a method of education.

+ Angela Yuan, B.Sc., B.Ed.

Instagram: @yuangela.visuals

As a former high school biology/visual arts teacher and a current MScBMC graduate student, I aim to dismantle scientific illiteracy and student apathy through 3D animation, graphic medicine, and interactive design. My goal is to create scientific educational resources that facilitate inquiry-based learning through interactive media, and to ultimately excite students about science.

My journey into pedagogical research and instructional design first began during my undergraduate biology and education studies at Queen’s University. Throughout 2021-2022, I collaborated with Dr. Eric Dumont to design interactive modules for an online undergraduate psychedelics course. We focused on how visual aids and gamification could increase intrinsic motivation and reduce cognitive load. I created a virtual board game to incentivize friendly competition between peers, a self-assessment quiz to identify knowledge gaps, and numerous illustrations to support text-heavy reading. Later in 2023, I worked with Dr. Leslie MacKenzie to create anatomical comics to simplify and visualize the somatic sensory pathway. My storytelling and metaphors helped students to re-interpret neurological concepts to real-world scenarios, ultimately making the information more memorable and meaningful.

Throughout my 2+ years of professional teaching and creating instructional designs, I have often noticed that students struggle to fully engage with learning material due to the dry yet daunting nature of scientific jargon. It is this ongoing observation of different learners that drives my passion towards optimizing science communication for all. Whether I am in the classroom, or behind the scenes creating educational tools, I’ve found that students succeed the most with media they can relate to and actively interact with. I believe that a strong narrative and immersive engagement is key to maximizing a student’s curiosity, retention, and comprehension.

Apart from my fixations in pedagogy and scientific communication, you can find me scrapbooking, collecting funky earrings, or creating live watercolour portraits at weddings!