Series: Undergraduate Student Research Awards Recipients (#1)

(August 1, 2025) - This summer, twenty-four students have the opportunity to support research projects through Laurentian University with funding provided by Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC). Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRAs) are meant to nurture interest among undergraduate students and develop their potential for a research career. This funding provides students with research work experience that complements their studies in an academic setting.

Students support research for a period of sixteen weeks, on a full-time basis, from May to August. Students can hold one USRA per fiscal year but can hold up to three USRAs throughout their undergraduate career.

Getting the opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way to a research project is often reserved for graduate students. USRAs grant a unique and coveted opportunity to undergraduate students to get experience in their field of interest. The students’ year of study, major, and areas of research vary but they all similarly demonstrate the positive impact that this opportunity has on their current studies and future goals.

Throughout the remainder of the summer, the students will share in their own words their ambitions, their interests, and a little about the research project they are supporting.

Nicolas Pottier, graduate of Laurentian University’s Computer Science program.

Hometown: Val Thérèse, ON

High school: École secondaire catholique l'Horizon

I recently completed my undergraduate degree in Computer Science and plan to pursue a Master’s degree this fall. I’ve always been passionate about technology, and when I learned about the newly established Robotics Lab at Laurentian University, I saw an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research and help shape the future of robotics. In my spare time, I enjoy photography, playing soccer, and traveling.

During my USRA tenure, I will be working in the Laurentian Intelligent Mobile Robotics Lab under the supervision of Dr. Meng Cheng Lau. My research focuses on developing advanced AI models to enhance robotic perception. In addition to this project, I will be leading Laurentian University’s team “Snobots” at the Federation of International Robosport’s HuroCup, taking place this August in Daegu, South Korea. I plan to present my findings at the conference, highlighting our team's innovations on an international stage. Alongside my research and competition preparation, I am also actively involved in knowledge transfer within the lab, mentoring and supporting newer members to strengthen the team’s long-term capacity and expertise. The experience gained from this USRA will be invaluable to my future endeavours, both in graduate studies and in the workforce.

Evyn Martin, 2nd year Outdoor Adventure Leadership and Biology student at Laurentian University

Hometown: Noëlville, ON

High school:  Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School

After I received my Bachelor of Fine Arts at Nipissing University (2024), I enrolled in Laurentian University’s Bachelor of Physical and Health Education program, specializing in Outdoor Adventure Leadership paired with a Biology Major.

Through the USRA, I’ve had the opportunity to work under the supervision of Laurentian University’s Dr. Mateus Pepinelli. We are working on many projects, but our main focus is ecology and biodiversity research using honey bees. I’ve thrived learning about beekeeping, environmental DNA analysis, 3D modelling, and specialized genetic lab techniques. This hands-on experience will be invaluable in my future academic pursuits.

As an Indigenous, first-generation university student, I’m passionate about making academia more accessible, especially for those who have historically been left out. When I complete my studies at Laurentian, I hope to use my interdisciplinary experience to bridge the gap between Western science and traditional Indigenous knowledge in creative ways.

Jazmin Fergani, graduate of Laurentian University’s Biochemistry program

Hometown: Sudbury, ON

High school: Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School

I am a 2025 Biochemistry graduate, from Laurentian University. I am very fortunate to have been a recipient of the 2025 NSERC USRA research grant, which has provided me with the opportunity to nurture my interests in research and healthcare, while learning and developing my skills with the help of a supportive and knowledgeable mentor at the Cardiovascular Metabolic Research Unit.

My USRA project, supervised by Dr. Guangdong Yang, explores the role of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) signals in bacterial physiology and host-bacteria interactions. H2S is traditionally known as a toxic gas but has recently been recognized as a ubiquitous signalling molecule with various beneficial physiological effects. This summer, my project is focused on exploring such interactions, specifically among microbial cultures, and completing extensive research to write a review paper on the topic.

The skills I have developed and continue to build throughout this project have helped me strengthen my passion for understanding how various concepts can connect to real world healthcare, ultimately deepening my motivation to pursue a future career where I can support others.

Outside of my studies, I enjoy spending time outdoors with friends and family, whether on the lake or exploring Sudbury, my hometown. I hope to one day be able to give back to my community through my research and educational endeavors.

Kailey Beggs, 4th year Kinesiology student at Laurentian University

Hometown: Val Caron, ON

High school: Confederation Secondary School

This summer, I have returned to the Centre for Research in Occupational Safety and Health (CROSH) lab as a USRA student, working on my undergraduate thesis under the supervision of Dr. Katie Goggins and Dr. Alison Godwin. We are exploring how seat adjustment training affects seat-to-head vibration transmissibility during seated vibration exposure. Coming from a Kinesiology background, it has been both challenging and exciting to explore the biomechanics and engineering side of this research. So far, the most interesting part of this project is learning about how vibration can impact health and how even small postural changes can impact how vibration is transmitted through the body. It has also been interesting and rewarding to plan and execute the research process and learn how to troubleshoot.

Being part of CROSH has been one of the most meaningful parts of my undergraduate experience, and I am so grateful for the skills I have learned and continue to develop throughout this experience. A few skills I have developed include problem solving, academic writing, initiative, and confidence. In the future, I hope to use the knowledge and skills I am gaining to pursue postgraduate education in medicine. Outside of research, I enjoy going to the gym, running, spending time at camp, volunteering with wildlife, and being with my family, friends, and dog, Hershey.