Executive Committee 2025/26

Laura Enekegho
Laura (she/her) is a PhD Candidate in Biochemistry at the University of Alberta, with a focus on engineering probiotic yeast to target and treat pathogenic infections in poultry birds. Laura also obtained her BSc. in Biochemistry, where she was involved with UA-WiSE (University of Alberta’s Women in Science and Engineering). After starting graduate school, Laura joined WiSER and has since served as an event lead for the last 4 years. She has helped put together community-based events and initiatives aimed at networking and building essential skills to succeed in STEM. Outside of WiSER, Laura is involved with her department’s graduate students’ group and currently serves as a graduate students’ association councillor.  She also volunteers with the Red Cross as a patient service personnel, helping to connect Edmontonians with quality healthcare equipment. Outside of the lab, WiSER and volunteering, Laura enjoys weightlifting, reading, and basking in nature. Laura 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.

Trixie Adra
Trixie (she/her) is a science communicator and visual storyteller. She holds an Honours degree in Biochemistry from the University of Alberta and a Biomedical Visualization and Communications certificate from the University of British Columbia. She has a background in research, exploring small molecule drug interactions in cancerous proteins. During her time as a lab assistant, she discovered her passion for science communication. She currently works as a presenter at the science center where she encourages scientific literacy and curiosity through accessible language. She has been with WiSER for the last two years serving as a mentorship co-lead, connecting young and experienced professionals through networking and professional development events. Having served as an undergraduate mentor since 2020, Trixie is dedicated to breaking down barriers in STEM by building community, encouraging diversity, and supporting underrepresented individuals in their journey. In her free time, she enjoys playing video games, café hopping, and making art.

Kathryn Lambert
Kathryn (she/her) is a PhD Candidate in Rehabilitation Science who previously worked as an 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.

Lauren Grubb
Lauren (she/her) is currently a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Alberta in the Department of Biological Sciences. Her research focuses on using quantitative proteomics to investigate plant nutrient signaling responses. She is new to the WiSER team this year, and having had several passionate female mentors throughout her academic career, she is looking to pass this forward through her role as a WiSER Mentorship Program Lead. In her free time, she enjoys horseback riding and being outdoors.

Parvinder Kaur
Parvinder (she/her) holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology from the University of Delhi, India. With a strong passion for teaching and mentoring, she brings extensive experience as an Assistant Professor at the University of Delhi and as a Research and Quality Assurance Associate in Edmonton. Currently, she teaches in the Department of Biological Sciences at Concordia University of Edmonton. Outside the classroom, Parvinder enjoys reading and listening to music. Now entering her second year as a Mentorship Co-lead, she is enthusiastic about continuing to support and empower underrepresented women in STEM through knowledge-sharing and community-building.

Jenelle McCuaig
Jenelle (she/her) is a PhD student in Biological Sciences at the University of Alberta, where she also completed her BSc in Biological Sciences with specialization in Integrative Physiology and then her MSc in Biological Sciences. Her current research focuses on the effects of wildfire contaminants on aquatic organisms. She is passionate about scientific communication and education at all levels, facilitating and volunteering for numerous scientific outreach programs for children and youth. Jenelle is a strong advocate for mentorship programs within science especially for women in STEM, and has been a science mentor to undergraduate students since 2020. She has participated in the WiSER mentorship program for the past three years. This is her first year as a member of the WiSER executive committee and she is very excited for the upcoming year!

Vida Dehghan Niestanak
Vida is a University of Alberta alumna with a background in biomedical engineering. Passionate about bridging science and community, she currently works as a research assistant in the Department of Medicine, contributing to patient-centered research in the Division of Nephrology. Since moving to Edmonton, she has been intentional about building meaningful connections—both professionally and personally. Her involvement with WiSER reflects her commitment to fostering inclusive, supportive spaces where under representative individuals can grow, collaborate, and thrive. As an immigrant woman in STEM, she’s proud to help make space for others like her.

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 defence 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.

Rachael Rieberger
Rachael Rieberger (she/her) is an MSc student in Microbiology and Biotechnology at the University of Alberta. Her research focuses on adapting methane-eating bacteria to acidic conditions for bioproduction. Another aspect of her work explores the growth of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria, key players in the nitrogen cycle, in biofilms to better understand their physiology under more environmentally relevant conditions. Outside of research, Rachael loves baking, often experiments in the kitchen with the same curiosity she brings to the lab, and enjoys sharing her passion for science through outreach and mentoring.

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 the third 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 out 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 defence 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.

Nina Deschner
Nina is a first-year Master’s student specializing in microbiology and biotechnology. Her research focuses on harnessing specialized bacteria to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. She is passionate about science communication and education and also serves as an advisor to the UAlberta iGEM team, where she supports students in synthetic biology research and outreach. This will be the first year Nina is a member of the WiSER exec team and she couldn’t be more excited! Outside the lab Nina enjoys spending time with her family and friends and learning about niche history topics!

Jazmin Reyes Martinez
Jazmin (she/her) is a PhD student in Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Alberta. Her research focuses on developing biological assessments to test novel anticancer compounds. She holds a Master’s degree in Bioscience Research and Development from University College London and a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmaceutical Engineering. She has professional experience in pharmacovigilance, data analysis and she conducted research at the Institute of Biotechnology at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM).  She enjoys reading, baking, and orchestral concerts!

Areej Khaddaj
Areej (she/her) is a Mechanical Engineer-in-Training (E.I.T.) with a background in energy systems and sustainability. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Alberta in 2021 and completed a master’s in Sustainable Energy Development at the University of Calgary in 2024. Her graduate capstone focused on implementing heat-to-power technology for a natural gas power plant, reflecting her passion for optimizing energy systems to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. With her engineering experience in energy system design, asset integrity, and reliability engineering, she is driven to contribute to a cleaner energy future. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors, visiting new coffee shops, and painting.

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 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. In her free time, she enjoys watching movies, hiking, gardening, and travelling. Additionally, she is part of the Geolatinas community, which supports women in geosciences. Her goal in WiSER is to make a positive contribution to the vibrant community of women in science.

Priscillar Wenyika
Priscillar is a Soil Science Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Renewable Resources at the University of Alberta. Her research explores 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, extending 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 photos.

Dayani Patuwatha Withanage
Dayani is a first-year PhD student in the Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science at the University of Alberta. Her research focuses on wheat–canola rotation systems, specifically the role of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in improving soil health, nutrient uptake, and wheat performance. She holds an MSc in Biological Sciences from the University of Alberta and a BSc from the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. Before starting her PhD, she worked as a research associate at the Olds College Centre for Innovation, contributing to applied agricultural research. Alongside her academic work, she serves as Vice President of Finance for the ALES Graduate Students’ Association. This is her first time volunteering with WiSER, where she proud to serve as Communication Manager. She supports WiSER’s mission to uplift women and underrepresented groups in science. To support her role, she brings experience in media and communications gained through volunteering with the R.E. Peter Conference organizing committee, advocating for graduate students via the Biology Graduate Students’ Association, and promoting science engagement through her volunteer work with Energy Adventure – Science Rendezvous. In her free time, she enjoys cooking and watching movies.

Noor Assaf
Noor Assaf completed her bachelor’s degree in Biology at the University of Windsor and is currently pursuing an MSc in Physiology at the University of Alberta. Her research focuses on developing a diagnostic test to predict preterm birth using artificial intelligence and data derived from a stress index. Noor is passionate about improving women’s health outcomes through research.

Shakara Eben-Munro
Shakara is a Master’s student in Biological Sciences at the University of Alberta, where her research explores the effects of social isolation in Drosophila melanogaster (fruit flies). Exploring how environmental factors, like social interaction, influence behavior and neurobiology. This is Shakara’s first year on the executive team. She joined WiSER because she’s passionate about creating spaces where women and other underrepresented groups in STEM feel supported, seen, and encouraged to pursue their goals. As one of this year’s Event Leads, she’s excited to help bring people together through events that foster connection, learning, and community. Outside of the lab, Shakara loves reading fantasy novels, watching movies, and spending time with friends.

Maryam Firoozbakht
Maryam Firoozbakht is a Research Assistant at the University of Alberta, specializing in environmental microbiology and bioremediation. She holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology and has over a decade of experience in academic and laboratory settings. Her current research focuses on the microbial degradation of hydrocarbons in oil sands tailings, contributing to sustainable remediation practices. Maryam brings extensive expertise in environmental site assessments, molecular biology, and analytical chemistry, performing complex assays and implementing rigorous quality control measures. Beyond research, she is actively involved in science communication and knowledge sharing. As an Event Lead for WiSER, Maryam is passionate about fostering inclusive spaces where women in STEM can connect, grow, and inspire one another. She is also a dedicated volunteer with Future Energy Systems and UNICEF Campus, demonstrating her commitment to both scientific advancement and community engagement.

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. Lynn is excited to continue her advocacy for underrepresented people in STEM through WiSER as an Event Lead.

Mahsa Panahandeh
Mahsa Panahandeh (she/her) is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Ottawa. She received her Ph.D. in Software Engineering and Intelligent Systems from the University of Alberta. Mahsa has cultivated a strong research profile through collaborations with several institutions, including the University of Ottawa, University of Alberta, Concordia University, École de Technologie Supérieure, Brock University, and the Polytechnic University. After multiple volunteer engagements with WISER (Women in Science and Engineering Roundtable), Mahsa joined the organization as an executive member. Through this role, she is committed to supporting the empowerment of women in STEM and strengthening her engagement with equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives, with the support and inspiration of the WISER community.

Amanda Nhi Tran
Amanda (she/her) is a Master’s student in Chemical Physics at the University of Alberta, where her research focuses on spectroscopic and computational modeling of chiral catalysts, specifically salen-type ligands and their metal complexes. Beyond her research, Amanda is an active member of the GSA Elections and Referenda Committee and serves as a photographer for the UASU. Previously, she held the role of Vice President External for the Chemistry Graduate Student Society and was a Graduate Student Ambassador for the Department of Chemistry’s Recruitment Weekend. During her undergraduate studies, Amanda also supported University of Alberta International as an Orientation Ambassador and Event Assistant. She is excited to bring her experience and passion for student advocacy to WiSER as an Executive member and is grateful for the opportunity to serve as Event Lead, where she aims to advocate for and support underrepresented groups in STEM.

Carolina Rodriguez Baez
Carolina is a recent graduate as a M.Sc. in Chemical and Materials Engineering with a focus on polymer membrane fabrication for Zn-ion batteries from the University of Alberta. Previously she received her Bachelor’s in Nanotechnology Engineering from the Universidad Tecnologica de Ciudad Juarez (Mexico). Carolina has previously collaborated in several community projects in Mexico promoting reading in low income communities and encouraging young girls (12-16 years old) to pursue STEM careers. By joining the WiSER executive team she hopes to keep advocating for women and underrepresented communities in STEM. Carolina enjoys walks, baking, reading and video games.

Sadie Vogel
Sadie (she/her) received her Bachelor’s degree in Cell Biology from the University of Alberta in 2024. Throughout her undergraduate years, she developed a strong passion for mentorship and community building, serving as an elected executive member of the Cell Biology Students’ Association. In this role, she mentored early-year students and helped organize social and academic events to foster connection and support. Looking to explore the broader impact of science beyond the lab, she interned with the University of Alberta Innovation Fund, where she supported early-stage ventures and deepened her interest in the intersection of research and industry. Now in her second year as a Volunteer Coordinator with WiSER, Sadie hopes to continue to champion inclusive spaces that empower students and professionals in science, engineering, and research. In Sadie’s free time she enjoys traveling, staying active, and spending time with friends!

Sophie Shi
Sophie 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!

Angelle Britton
Angelle is a PhD Candidate in Microbiology and Biotechnology at the University of Alberta, where her research focuses on bacteriophages targeting the human and agricultural pathogen, Burkholderia gladioli. Her work contributes to the development of phage therapy as an alternative to antibiotics, advancing our understanding of phage biology and ultimately addressing antimicrobial resistance. Angelle was an active member of WiSER’s Executive Committee from 2021 to 2025, serving as Event Lead, Volunteer Coordinator, and Co-Chair. Beyond WiSER, Angelle has contributed to the broader STEM community through her involvement with the Alberta Women’s Science Network (AWSN), and as a judge for the Edmonton Regional and Canada-Wide Science Fairs.