James Lisondra

Hello! My name is James Lisondra (he/him) and I have just completed my 3rd year as a Biological Science student at Ontario Tech University. Through my studies in Life Sciences and health equity-related work for those unhoused in South Oshawa, I am passionate about exploring the intersections between health & society. In the future, I seek to bridge the gap between marginalized communities and comprehensive, equity-oriented healthcare. As a Filipino Canadian, I hope to bring care to communities that look just like my own family and speak the languages of my ancestors. 

My research journey began in gastroenterology and medical education where I explored the life-long learning tools institutions and hospitals use to further physician competence. In the following summer, I led a scoping review on perinatal depression in fathers, lesbian & non-binary partners under an Ontario Tech STAR USRA. In a microbiology laboratory, my most recent project investigated the mechanisms underlying bacterial quorum sensing which was awarded an NSERC USRA. 

As an Amgen Scholar, I am immensely grateful for the chance to work in the Options Lab at St. Michael’s Hospital under the supervision of Dr. Darrell Tan. I will be contributing to work focused on HIV/STI prevention and management, investigating new solutions to an epidemic that disproportionately impacts those who are marginalized. Now more than ever, queer and trans communities need advocates in medicine and academia that champion evidence-based PrEP & PEP delivery and alleviate barriers to HIV care in rural, remote & BIPOC communities.