Executive Committee 2024

Angelle Britton
Angelle (she/her) is a PhD Candidate in Microbiology and Biotechnology at the University of Alberta, with a focus on bacteriophages targeting the human and agricultural pathogen, Burkholderia gladioli. While obtaining her Bachelor of Science in Biology, Angelle was involved in the scientific community as the Co-President of her University’s science society. Now in graduate school, Angelle joined WiSER’s executive committee in 2021, and has served as Event Lead, Volunteer Coordinator, and is entering her second term as Co-Chair. Outside of WiSER, Angelle has also been involved with the Alberta Women’s Science Network (AWSN), the Edmonton Regional and Canada-Wide Science Fairs, and as a member of the WISEST Advisory board. Angelle is continually grateful for her opportunity to contribute to WiSER’s mandate and to encourage others in the pursuit and retention of their STEM journey.

Jenna Evanchuk
Jenna (she/her) is an MD student at the University of Calgary. She has a BSc in Biological Sciences and MSc in Nutrition and Metabolism from the University of Alberta. Jenna was on the UA-WiSE volunteer committee for 3 years during her undergrad where she gained experience in different positions, including event planning and sponsor recruitment. She served as a WiSER Sponsorship Manager from 2021-2023 and as Co-Chair last year. She has also been a member of the WISEST Advisory board since 2022. Jenna is thrilled to be taking on the second year of her Co-Chair term, and she remains highly dedicated to the inclusion, safety, and empowerment of all people in STEM fields.

Kathryn Lambert
Kathryn (she/her) is a PhD Candidate in Rehabilitation Science and a practicing occupational therapist in the Edmonton area. Her research focuses on motor imagery in healthy and clinical populations. Kathryn never considered pursuing research until she met a strong female mentor during her undergraduate degree who provided her with invaluable training and support.

Iram Afzal
Iram (she/her) is a PhD candidate in the Renewable Resources Department at the University of Alberta, Canada. Her research focuses on the remediation and reclamation of oil sands tailings. Iram is passionate about exploring science and communicating scientific concepts to other students. That’s why she is an energy explorer with Future Energy System and actively participates in different science communication events such as Science Rendezvous and Sustainival. Her research credibility has resulted in her being featured as an outstanding volunteer for the Science Rendezvous event.

Parvinder Kaur
Parvinder (she/her) holds a doctorate in Microbiology from the University of Delhi, India. Leveraging her passion for teaching and mentoring, along with extensive experience as an Assistant Professor at the University of Delhi and as Research and Quality Assurance Associate at Edmonton, she is currently teaching at Concordia University of Edmonton. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and listening to music. As a Mentorship Co-lead, Parvinder is eager to share her expertise to help empower underrepresented women in STEM.

Rebecca Enesi
Dr. Enesi (she/her) earned her PhD in Environmental System Science from ETH Zurich, Switzerland. She is currently a Postdoctoral Fellow (cropping systems) at the University of Alberta. With over a decade of experience in cropping systems within both tropical and temperate regions, in Nigeria and Canada. Her work has primarily focused on improving crop yields for both smallholder and large-scale farmers, aiming to optimize resource use efficiency while maintaining sustainability. Rebecca’s passion about research and development is evident through her extensive experience with CGIAR, specifically at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture in Nigeria. In addition to my professional pursuits, Rebecca has volunteered as a mentorship co-lead, and I am eager to help young women navigate their professional journeys effectively. Outside of my professional life, Rebecca enjoys traveling, reading fiction, and spending quality time with her family.

Rebecca Reif
Rebecca Reif (she/her) is a PhD student in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Alberta. She is currently the graduate student representative for the department and a current member of the planning committee for the OB/GYN Research Day. She is actively involved in mentoring students in research on the University of Alberta Campus and is a Pandas Soccer alumni player. She is extremely passionate in teaching and uplifting others in the field of science.

Trixie Adra
Trixie (she/her) completed her Honours degree in Biochemistry at the University of Alberta and is currently a Biomedical Visualization and Communications student at the University of British Columbia. She has a background in research, exploring small molecule drug interactions with a protein involved in breast cancer. During her time as a lab assistant, she discovered her passion for science communication, and is currently working as a science presenter at the Telus World of Science. Trixie has actively volunteered as an undergraduate mentor since 2020 and has volunteered with WiSER and WISEST over the last year. She is dedicated to breaking down barriers in STEM by building community and encouraging diversity through mentorship and teaching. In her free time, she enjoys playing video games, café hopping, and making art.

Emilee Storfie
Emilee (she/her) is a doctoral candidate in the AFNS program at the University of Alberta studying clubroot disease on canola. In particular, Emilee is studying the molecular interactions between the pathogen and the plant’s defense responses. She started with WiSER in 2021 and is incredibly grateful for the experiences she has gained while being surrounded by supportive and amazing individuals in STEM. She hopes to share her love of science and research with others while continuing to make friends along the way. When not in the lab, Emilee enjoys hanging out with her dog, Zelda.

Julia Shore
Julia (she/her) is a Project Engineer-in-Training in the Transmission Engineering Department at ATCO Gas and Pipelines. She has a BSc in Mechanical Engineering with a biomedical specialization from the University of Alberta. This is her second year as Treasurer. She is returning to the role, continuing to apply her financial management experience to support such an important group. During her undergrad and in her workplace, Julia has seen the clear need for attraction and retention of women in STEM. It’s important for women to feel supported as they undertake both their professional and personal aspirations. Julia is passionate about empowering women in STEM and values all the connections with like-minded individuals she has made while working with WiSER. In her spare time, Julia enjoys the great outdoors, cooking, and doing agility with her bernedoodle, Jasper.

Crystal Mulik
Crystal (she/her) is pursuing an MSc in Pediatrics at the University of Alberta. She has a BSc in Neuroscience and a BSc in Psychology (Honours) from the University of Lethbridge. Crystal is excited to be joining WiSER for a second year as a Sponsorship Manager. She looks forward to supporting career advancement for under-represented individuals in STEM fields. Outside of the lab, Crystal enjoys spending time in nature and trying new recipes in the kitchen.

Emilee Storfie
Emilee (she/her) is a doctoral candidate in the AFNS program at the University of Alberta studying clubroot disease on canola. In particular, Emilee is studying the molecular interactions between the pathogen and the plant’s defense responses. She started with WiSER in 2021 and is incredibly grateful for the experiences she has gained while being surrounded by supportive and amazing individuals in STEM. She hopes to share her love of science and research with others while continuing to make friends along the way. When not in the lab, Emilee enjoys hanging out with her dog, Zelda.

Amy Du
Amy (she/her) is a Postdoctoral Researcher in Chemical and Materials Engineering at the University of Alberta. She completed her PhD in Biochemistry at the University of Calgary in 2023. Her research focuses on bioengineering bacteriophages for modulation of the gut microbiome, in addition to the development of enzymes for biodegradation of polymers. Throughout her research career, Amy has mentored many undergraduate researchers, most of whom were women of colour, and hosted seminars and events focused on EDI for other graduate students in her department. Amy is excited to join the WiSER Executive Team to help promote and encourage women and under-represented individuals in STEM. Outside of research, Amy enjoys playing video games, crafting, and spending time with her family (including her pet budgie)!

Iasmin M Sousa
Iasmin (she/her) has completed her BSc, master’s degree in nutrition, and PhD in health sciences in Brazil, her home country. She has international experience, having been a visiting undergraduate student in Australia and a PhD student in Canada. Iasmin is currently a Postdoctoral fellow at the University of Alberta, supported by Alberta Innovates in Health Innovation. Her research is focused on digital health, nutrition, and chronic diseases. Iasmin is passionate about research and works on several additional projects exploring body composition, nutritional assessment, nutritional intake, and energy metabolism. Outside of the research environment, Iasmin loves travelling, spending time with family and friends, cooking, and watching movies. She joined the Executive Committee of WiSER in 2024 as a Communications Manager and believes in the power of effective communication to drive positive change and meaningful connections. She is committed to using her skills and experience, not only to contribute to the projects but also to learn and grow with this community.

Sofia Moreno-Pina
Sofia (she/her) is a PhD Candidate in the Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Department at the University of Alberta, specializing in drought modelling in forests using remote sensing. With a robust background in environmental sciences, her primary interests include global warming and water resources management. Sofia holds an MSc in River Environments and their Management from the University of Birmingham, England. Professionally, she has been involved in different environmental projects since her undergraduate studies. Enthusiastic about science communication, Sofia also enjoys photography. She loves watching movies, hiking, gardening, and travelling in her spare time. Additionally, she is a member of the Geolatinas community, supporting women in geosciences. Her goal in WiSER is to contribute positively to the vibrant community of women in science.

Priscillar Wenyika
Priscillar (she/her) is a Soil Science Ph.D student in the Department of Renewable Resources at the University of Alberta. Her research focuses on exploring the soil health benefits of liming in the Canadian Prairies. She joined WiSER in 2022 as a Communications Manager and she continues to work in this role to assist in all things media and communications. She enjoys working with fellow women in STEM from various backgrounds spanning her support to those from underrepresented groups. She has had great experiences and made new and valuable connections while working with WiSER. She hopes to do her best to support and empower other women while also developing herself personally and professionally. During her leisure time, Priscillar enjoys crocheting, cycling, going on mini adventures and taking pictures.

Priyanka Mungara
Priyanka (she/her) is currently pursuing an MSc. in Physiology at the University of Alberta. She studies the unique role of the kidney collecting duct in maintaining ion and acid-base balance. Priyanka joined WiSER in 2023 with an interest in inspiring and motivating students to take up space in STEM fields, eager to pay forward the support and mentorship she received when beginning her studies in a STEM field. In her first role as an Event Lead she was able to advocate for increased diversity in STEM through planning incredible events. This year, she is serving as Communications Manager and is excited to bring her creativity to the role. In her free time, Priyanka loves running, binge watching TV shows, and baking!

Inara Shah
Inara (she/her) is a first year Master of Public Health student at the University of Alberta. She has a Bachelor in Nursing (BScN) from Aga Khan University, Pakistan. Inara has always been involved in community development and capacity building of women and adolescents in low-resource countries. She presented her review paper on female genital mutilation and its implications on women health at the 33rd Nursing Research Congress at Edinburgh and leads to empower women for their participation and equal opportunities in all walks of life. Currently, Inara serves as a GSA Councilor Representative for the FGSR at the University of Alberta and a Social Media Coordinator for School of Public Health Wellness society. Inara is grateful for the opportunity to take on the Event Lead position in WiSER Executive Council and remains motivated to advocate for participation, growth and inclusivity of underrepresented groups in STEM fields.

Laura Enekegho
Laura (she/her) is a third year Ph.D student in the department of Biochemistry at the University of Alberta. Her research focuses on designing probiotics to treat pathogenic infections in poultry birds. Laura joined WiSER because she is very passionate about advocating for the retainment of underrepresented group in STEM, especially through community events and outreach programs. When she’s not conducting research in the lab or learning about the many wonders of the gut microbiome, Laura enjoys watching Korean dramas, weightlifting and reading romance novels.

Lynn Sukkarieh
Lynn (she/her) is an epidemiologist at Health Canada. Her work focuses on cannabis surveillance across the country. She investigates how Canadians’ cannabis use and perspectives on cannabis have changed since legalization. Lynn utilizes the R programming language to conduct analyses and automate reports in her work, and she enjoys sharing her passion for R with others. She has a B.Sc. Specialization in Psychology at the University of Alberta and a M.Sc. in Public Health from McGill University. During her undergraduate years, Lynn was an active member of UA-WiSE; she joined as a general volunteer, then became the Communication Coordinator, and then took on the role of Co-Chair for 2 years. As a member of the Anti-Racism in Science Working Group at Health Canada, Lynn is excited to continue her advocacy for underrepresented people in STEM through WiSER as an Event Lead.

Mahsa Panahandeh
Mahsa Parahandeh (she/her) is currently a PhD candidate in the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department at the University of Alberta. She holds a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Software Engineering from the University of Isfahan, Iran. Mahsa has accumulated several years of industry experience as a software architect and developer and has been actively involved in various research groups in both Iran and Canada. Her research journey has included collaborations with the University of Alberta, Polytechnic University, and the École de Technologie Supérieure in Montreal. Recently, Mahsa joined WISER as an executive member, aiming to further contribute to the empowerment of women in industry, science, and engineering.

Natalia Vergara
Hey there, I’m Natalia Vergara (she/her). I earned my Bachelor’s in Mechatronics Engineering from Tecnológico de Monterrey (Mexico) and moved to Canada in 2018 to pursue my Master’s in Engineering Management. Previously, I taught robotics at an all-girls school, striving to break stereotypes in STEM. I’ve volunteered with WISEST, where I mentored and organized activities, championing diversity. Currently, I work in the energy industry, focusing on renewable energy solutions and project management. Outside of work, I’m all about outdoor adventures like hiking and camping. I also love cooking, baking and embroidery. Hanging out with friends and family is my favourite pastime, where we share laughs, good food, and make memories. My husband, also an engineer, and I met during our master’s program at the University of Alberta, and together, we’re committed to promoting women’s representation in engineering.

Vida Dehghan Niestanak
Vida (she/her) is currently pursuing her MSc in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Alberta, focusing on the interactions between uremic toxins and blood proteins and their significance in chronic kidney disease patients and ultimately aiming to enhance patients’ treatment and outcomes. She initially got engaged with WISEST by volunteering in the SET and HYRS programs, where she deeply resonated with the impactful activities aimed at representing minorities and providing platforms for research, networking, and mentoring. Vida’s volunteer experiences have profoundly shaped her professional and personal development, guiding her toward future leadership roles with various student groups and non-profit organizations. Inspired by these experiences, she decided to join the WiSER executive committee as an Event Lead for the 2024/2025 term. She is eager to contribute to event planning and organization in the upcoming year. As a female engineer, Vida aspires to influence and inspire young women and underrepresented groups in STEM, leveraging her experiences to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment in the scientific community.

Claire Douglas
Claire (she/her) is a first-year medical student at the University of Saskatchewan. She recently completed her MSc in Nutrition and Metabolism at the University of Alberta, where she studied the effects of fatty acid supplementation on women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy. She previously served as an Event Lead for WiSER where she enjoyed planning events that provided learning opportunities and brought people together in support of people underrepresented in STEM fields. She is excited to continue her contributions by helping coordinate and plan events as a volunteer coordinator.

Sadie Vogel
Sadie (she/her) received her Bachelor’s degree in Cell Biology from the University of Alberta in ’24. During her final year of undergrad she was involved in a research lab investigating spinal cord injury. During that same time she served as a student mentor for undergrads in the early years of their Cell Biology degree and as an elected executive team member of the Cell Biology Students Association, where she helped to plan social events. This is Sadie’s first year on the WiSER executive team, and as a volunteer coordinator, she hopes to assist in the event successes while building a supportive environment for those in science, engineering and research. In Sadie’s free time she enjoys traveling, staying active and hanging out with friends!

Sophie Shi
Sophie (she/her) is a PhD Candidate in Materials Engineering at the University of Alberta, where she also completed her bachelor’s degree in 2020. Her research focuses on using electrochemistry for detection of trace amounts of harmful analytes using nanostructured electrodes. Sophie has always been involved on campus and in her community and has actively volunteered for WISEST since 2017, working with young women and gender-diverse students to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers. Through this role, she hopes to contribute to a supportive community of women in science, engineering, and research. In her free time, Sophie enjoys baking, doing puzzles, and spending time with her two cats!

Noor Al-Zanoon
Noor (she/her) is pursuing a Ph.D. in Rehabilitation Science with a focus on technology and head and neck cancer treatment at the University of Alberta. As a rehabilitation science researcher, Noor has two primary goals: 1) improve the quality of care through the development of technologically advanced methods for personalized and patient-centered speech rehabilitation after head and neck cancer, and 2) translate research evidence to policy and practice leaders. She is working towards these goals by generating innovative research through meaningful research assistantships, volunteer positions and ecosystem building opportunities.