Eric Chapman - Molecular Genetics
PhD Candidate
Country of Origin: Guelph, Ontario Canada
Pre-MSc/PhD Education: BSc.H Biology Queen's University
Recent Research Experience:
As an undergraduate thesis student, I worked with S. cerevisiae and studied the activity of a specific protease important during development. For my graduate studies I began my Masters in the department of Molecular Genetics, and re classified into the PhD program a year later. I chose to transfer into the PhD program, because I was excited about my project, very happy in my lab, and knew I wanted to continue with research. I am currently supervised by Dr. W. Brent Derry at the Hospital for Sick Children.
Current Research:
My research focuses on non-autonomous signalling pathways that regulate cell death in response to stresses such as radiation. Our lab uses the small nematode worm C. elegans because it has a conserved apoptotic pathway, and is transparent. This allows us to study apoptosis at the resolution of single cells. C. elegans has a fully sequenced genome and is amenable to genetic perturbation, making it a good model for the discovery of new pathways that regulate apoptosis.
Why Faculty of Medicine?
I chose the Faculty of Medicine at U of T for graduate studies because it is one of the best Canada in terms of high quality research, and publications that are produced. I was also impressed by the number of collaborations that occur within this faculty. The sharing of ideas and helping one another contribute to the body of knowledge creates an encouraging work environment.
Future Education Plans and/or Career Goals:
I would like to pursue any career that will allow me to continue research in the molecular sciences. Academia is one career path I am considering, however I am also open to working in government, or for companies that focus on research and development. As part of the Faculty of Medicine, I've had the opportunity to learn about different career options by attending career development days and networking sessions, which are very valuable opportunities.
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