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Series: Undergraduate Student Research Awards Recipients

Series: Undergraduate Student Research Awards Recipients

August 1, 2024 - This summer, twenty-two students have the opportunity to support research projects through Laurentian University with funding provided by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), 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 16 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 summer the students will share, in their own words, about themselves, their ambitions, their interests, and a little about the research project they are supporting.

Kailey Beggs

3rd year of Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology at Laurentian University

Hometown: Val Caron, Ontario

High School: Confederation Secondary School

This summer, I was offered the opportunity to work with the Centre for Research in Occupational Safety and Health (CROSH) through my USRA. I am excited to be gaining practical experience in the field of research, working on many projects that are all in different stages. Surprisingly, I have learned more about statistics through CROSH than I did in my intro to stats course. Who knew I would be using stats again! In the future, I hope to use all the knowledge and skills I am gaining from CROSH and my program (Kinesiology) to pursue postgraduate education and eventually achieve a career in healthcare.

Currently, I am involved in several projects at CROSH, but the one that is most exciting to me is the Air Quality Index (AQI) Interventions project with Dr. Alison Godwin. In this project, I am researching how people interact and interpret AQI data with a goal to improve public awareness about air pollution and associated health risks. My favourite topic to learn about is human physiology. I find it fascinating to understand how the body works, by understanding metabolism or examining movement patterns to prevent injuries and enhance biomechanics. Outside of school, I love running, going to the gym, walking my dog Hershey, and diving into a good book! A big part of my life is also volunteering and working.

Dulain Abeyratne

4th year Biomedical Biology at Laurentian University

Hometown: Sudbury, Ontario

High school: Lockerby Composite School

This is my second summer of research under the supervision of Dr. Stefan Siemann. Currently, I am supporting a project that focuses on the effects of metal exchange and the removal of zinc from a group of metal-containing enzymes. Specifically, we are investigating how this metal exchange impacts the enzyme activity. My time working as a research assistant has not only given me hands-on laboratory experience but has sparked an interest in the field of research. I hope to pursue a career in medicine, and I am confident that the skills I learn through this USRA-funded opportunity will positively impact my future goals.

In my free time, I enjoy running, playing basketball, and spending time with friends and family! I also spend time volunteering with different organizations including the YMCA of Northeastern Ontario and St. Joseph’s Continuing Care Center.

Olivia Norman

4th year Biomedical Biology at Laurentian University

Hometown: Ottawa, Ontario

High school: Glebe Collegiate Institute

Originally from Ottawa, I was drawn to Laurentian University by its varsity nordic ski team, incredible outdoor access, and smaller class sizes. Because Laurentian is a relatively small university, undergraduate students are provided with more laboratory experience than is often available at larger institutions. This experience built foundational skills I was able to transfer to research in a professional laboratory setting. This summer I received a USRA, which has provided me with the opportunity to work hands-on at NOSM U’s biomedical research laboratory in Sudbury. Co-supervised by Dr. Alain Simard and Dr. Suji Tharmalingam, my research digs into the genetics underlying the function of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the human body. NAChRs are found in many cell types around the body, including immune cells. Building on previous research by Dr. Simard and his team, I hope to uncover more about the involvement of nAChRs in the inflammatory response triggered by the immune system.

Camden Babin

3rd Year Software Engineering at the University of Alberta (U of A)

Hometown: Hanmer, Ontario

High school: Bishop Alexander Carter C.S.S

Before my studies at the U of A, I had a burning interest in all areas of STEM and had no idea where it would take me. It wasn’t until my general first-year programming class that I found my passion for computer science in engineering. Given the opportunity to work with CROSH at Laurentian this summer, I am most interested in the exposure to the use of microelectronics within the research and occupational health and safety fields. So far, I've seen how microelectronics such as accelerometers and low-cost Air Quality Index sensors communicate with larger computer systems to collect, store and process data securely. I look forward to learning about the research process and research-based practices, and how it relates to various engineering processes.

This summer I will be working closely on a project that facilitates community engagement with local air quality tools to assist in health-related decision-making, as well as taking every opportunity to aid in the technological side of other projects. I think what ties engineering, research, and occupational health and safety (OHS) all together is the desire we all have to problem-solve and improve the quality of life of others. I look forward to applying my passion to explore the intersection of technology and occupational health and safety at CROSH, contributing to projects that improve our community through innovative research.

Indigenous Land-Based Courses Offer Life Changing Experiences for Participants

Indigenous Land-Based Courses Offer Life Changing Experiences for Participants

Students take part in a practical learning experience surrounded by nature, culture and Indigenous teachings.

(August 10, 2023) - Not all learning is done in a classroom, and this past July 23 students from various undergraduate programs at Laurentian University participated in an Indigenous Land-Based course at the N’Swakamok Friendship Centre Grounds. This 8-day Anishnaabemowin immersion course is an opportunity for students to learn a language and truly experience Anishinaabe culture. Rooted in language learning, the course is designed to identify and describe the core teachings of the Southern / Zhaawanong direction using the Anishinaabemowin language.

The delivery and success of this course is supported by many devoted Laurentian community members. This includes course instructors Eli Lorney Bob and Maajiijwan Petahtegoose, Paula Potts, as well as graduate student Renee Lemoyne.

The course incorporates daily language learning, a variety of teachings and ceremonies (sunrise, fire lighting, fire keeping, birthing of drums, etc), sharing circles as well as basic outdoor survival skills like cooking, fire lighting, and fishing. Throughout the course, students were paired up and were responsible to watch over the sacred fire. All day and all night, in two hour blocks of time, the students fire keep with a watchful eye (with of course having obtained the appropriate permits).

Originally from Kebaowek First Nation in Kipawa Québec, Renee Lemoyne is a Laurentian alumna from the Biomedical Biology program, a current graduate student in the Masters of Indigenous Relations program as well as a staff member in the Indigenous Sharing and Learning Center (ISLC) as the Indigenous Student Transitions Coordinator. Having assisted in the course delivery as a helper (Shkaabewis), Renee was responsible for a wide range of important elements. As a Shkaabewis, she would be accommodating and supportive of the needs of all those participating such as; food, propane, washrooms, student safety as well as emotional support. 

“It has a life changing impact. The course is everything to the people who go there and make the most of it. It’s a time for letting go… and to learn to love oneself, to get rid of body shame, to feel free to do what you need to do in life and to get away from all of the judgment,” said Lemoyne.

The learning of the course material is expressed through both teachings and experiences. “The foundation of the teaching style is that the Anishinaabemowin language is an emotional language, it’s a language of love, spirit.” Renee continued to support her statement with the importance of the ceremonies in accordance with the language teachings. “Engaging in cultural activities based on the seasonal direction clear all of the emotions that we feel so we can let that emotional language in and have space for it.”

Renee’s passion for the impact and learnings of the land-based courses have made an influence on her personally and academically. “My masters thesis is simply that taking this course improves your wholistic health.” Renee anticipates being able to execute her research hypothesis on the next land-based course; set to take place in August. 

“Every night we would sit there and we would drum and we would sing and we would teach the students some songs. It is magical to say the least.”
For more information about how to register for the Land-Based courses, please visit Laurentian University’s list of Indigenous academic offerings.

Laurentian Relay for Life returns for the 8th consecutive year

Laurentian Relay for Life returns for the 8th consecutive year

Campaign aims to add $30,000 to a total of over $280,000 since 2015.

(March 3, 2023) - On March 10 and 11, 2023, Laurentian Relay for Life will host its eighth annual event. Relay for Life raises awareness and funds in support of the battle against cancer. Fundraising efforts are donated to the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS); the nation’s largest cancer charity and charitable funder of cancer research. The campaign has raised $284,493.61 since 2016 and hopes to raise another $30,000 this year. 

Ann VanDerAa (Mount Forest, Ontario), fourth year Bachelor of Arts and Education student double majoring in History and English Literature, Media and Writing is this year’s LU Relay for Life President, and one of twenty student volunteers on the 2022-2023 organizing committee. “I started volunteering with LU Relay for Life in my first year, and I’ve managed to work my way up all the way to the executive team. Every year’s campaign has taught me so much, and it's amazing being a part of something that affects us all. I haven’t met a person who hasn’t been impacted by cancer in one way or the other, so being a part of making a difference, that’s been really powerful.” 

Other members of the 2022-2023 LU Relay for Life executive team include Vice-President of Engagement, Caitlyn Brannon (Whitby, Ontario), fourth year Sports Psychology student, and Vice-President of Finance, Cameron Hourtovenko (Sudbury, Ontario), fourth year Biomedical Biology student. 

“We are very proud of the work put in to support Relay for Life, a truly collaborative effort,” said VanDerAa. “The event takes place in the Ben Avery gymnasium from 7:00 p.m. on Friday evening through 7:00 a.m. Saturday morning. The night is filled to the brim with live entertainment, food stations, games, sports tournaments, everything you can think of. Ultimately, at the end of the night, we come together to reveal our fundraising total.” Laurentian competes with some of the largest schools in the country in terms of number of participants and amounts fundraised. 

“Relay For Life is a global movement, taking place in 29 countries and 6000 communities worldwide and this year, we are so excited to celebrate the 8th annual Relay For Life event at Laurentian University. When Laurentian Relays, the school community helps make it possible for the Canadian Cancer Society to provide a national support system for people with cancer and their families. Together, we’re helping people manage life with cancer with services including accommodation at our cancer lodges, transportation to treatment, and one on one support with peer support volunteers. It’s truly because of the work from our incredible student leaders, volunteers and donors that our mission at the CCS is possible. We thank the Laurentian University community for making a remarkable impact and together, we can unite and inspire all Canadians to take control of cancer,” said Allie Raper, Senior Specialist, Relay For Life Youth, Canadian Cancer Society. 

LU Relay for Life is centered around four key ceremonies. An opening and closing ceremony, a survivor ceremony and a luminary ceremony. “The luminary ceremony is a particularly emotional and heartfelt point where participants get the chance to honor people they may have lost in a very respectful way,” said VanDerAa. Participants are each given a small paper bag to decorate, in which a light is inserted. “We dim the lights in the gym and give people time to reflect. It’s genuinely some people’s favourite part of Relay.” 

Though more than 125 Laurentian students have registered to participate in this year’s Relay for Life, the goal is for over 300 LU students to get involved. Students can register individually or in teams of 5-12. 

LU Relay for Life welcomes new registrants up until the day of the event, March 10th. They are grateful to their many supporters, including local sponsors as below: 

Platinum sponsors: Verdicchio’s Ristorante
Gold sponsors: Starbucks, Sudbury Five, Angèle’s Bakes
Silver sponsors: Greater Sudbury Utilities, Peavey Mart, Ferguson Deacon Taws, TestMark
Bronze sponsors: Salute Coffee Company, Handmade by Logan, New Sudbury Spice Co., Science North, Joyful Home, Sage, Twiggs Coffee Roasters, the Daventry, That’s My Jam, Positive Inception, Mastermind Toys, Sudbury Wolves, Party City, and Gourmet World

Student-led team remains dedicated to providing volunteer emergency response services on Laurentian’s campus

Student-led team remains dedicated to providing volunteer emergency response services on Laurentian’s campus

LUCERT responders are passionate about helping members of the community.

(December 1, 2022) - When a medical emergency occurs on campus, the Laurentian University Campus Emergency Response Team (LUCERT) is ready to step into action. Whether it be a student, a member of the public, or a Laurentian staff or faculty member requiring emergency response services, LUCERT is available to assist. 

LUCERT is a volunteer-based, student-run team that consists of twenty-eight Laurentian students devoted to providing fast emergency response services throughout campus. Services are available 24/7 during the academic year. While LUCERT is not meant to substitute emergency response services provided by calling 9-1-1, LUCERT complements these services and other professional health and wellness services available on and off campus.

Individuals requiring LUCERT services are encouraged to contact LUCERT regardless of their location on campus as the team responds anywhere from the Ben Avery facility all the way to the Living with the Lakes Center. 

LUCERT trains their student volunteers to the first responder level through the Canadian Red Cross. This means that LUCERT first responders can help in many situations requiring medical assistance, from a serious medical emergency to a scraped knee. 

By providing pre-paramedic care within their scope of practice, student volunteers are often able to provide medical care faster than 9-1-1 services. In serious circumstances, a few seconds could mean life or death. LUCERT understands how critical time can be during a medical emergency and, as such, work around the clock to ensure response times are as fast as possible. They will also connect with 9-1-1 services if further assistance is required.

Jenna O’Neill, LUCERT’s Coordinator and third year Biomedical Biology student from Belleville, Ontario, is passionate about her role with LUCERT: “Being able to provide a service that is valuable to our students is important to me. Volunteering with LUCERT has offered a great opportunity to learn more about related careers in this field.”

LUCERT encourages those interested in emergency first response to reach out: “Joining the LUCERT team provides an excellent opportunity to learn about pre-hospital care if you are interested in medicine or other related fields. It also offers the opportunity to make friends, as well as be an active member of our community,” says Jenna. 

Those interested in getting involved with LUCERT should email lucert@laurentian.ca, follow them on Facebook or Instagram, or stop by their office located in Single Student Residence, Room G7.

If a medical or mental health emergency occurs on campus, LUCERT may be contacted by phone (705-562-5456). 

The health and safety of community members is equally important to the Campus Security team who may be reached by phone (705-673-6562). 

We also wish to remind our community members that many other campus resources and services are also dedicated to medical and mental health and wellness, such as Counselling, Health and Wellness Services, Accessibility Services, the Peer Wellness Program, the Indigenous Student Affairs office, and the Equity, Diversity and Human Rights office (EDHRO). 
 
Laurentian students can also access free, immediate, confidential mental health support 24/7/365 by calling 1 (844) 451-9700 or by visiting myssp.app/keepmesafe. 

Laurentian University launches fall Orientation

Laurentian University launches fall Orientation

University community ready to welcome new and returning students to campus.

(September 1, 2022) - The summer flew by, and here we are, preparing for another fall semester. As September begins, Laurentian University launches its fall Orientation program, a welcome week for new and returning students designed to help students stay positive, healthy, and connected. 

This year’s number of incoming students represents an increase from 2021 and they are very much looking forward to a more traditional in-person welcome week, even as face coverings will be required in all instructional spaces where distance cannot be maintained.

For students who have chosen to live on campus, residence move-in begins September 1st through to September 3rd. While activities are planned to welcome students to their new homes, Residence Life also provides support to students needing a helping hand getting settled.

Following residence move-in days, September 4th brings back the ever-popular “Beach Day,” an event that students can anticipate will offer opportunities for team building and making new friends. Orientation events offered through September 12th include campus tours, Varsity soccer home openers, cultural teachings (like fire keeper and wiigwam teachings), a carnival day, a game night and a scavenger hunt. The Sacred Fire will be lit in the fire pit area outside the Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre’s Round Room from September 5th-9th and all are welcome to join.

To ensure Orientation is accessible to all, some events are offered in hybrid or online formats.

Corie Ann Flesch, Student Transitions Coordinator and Academic Advisor, and alumna of Psychologie (BA) and Interdisciplinary Health (MA) programs, is confident that fall Orientation will have a positive impact on students: “We want students to come to campus knowing that this [Laurentian] is a community. It really is a welcoming and caring environment and we hope that students come back with a renewed sense of support and belonging.”

Keeping this in mind, an academic orientation day will be held on campus on September 6th. Participating students are encouraged to attend information sessions at which they will learn about academic resources and other support systems that contribute to good physical, mental, social and spiritual well-being. 

“Our focus this year in planning Orientation was not just about educating students about resources available on campus, but also about ensuring they have the best tools at their disposal to access these systems of support, successfully,” said Emma Groulx, third year Biomedical Biology student and Career, Events and Outreach Coordinator. Groulx explains that welcome booths will be located in the centre of campus in the R.D.-Parker building not only during Orientation week, but ongoingly as the first few weeks of the semester are underway. 

The energy across campus is already palpable, and students returning to or beginning their first year at Laurentian are all a part of this excitement. 

For more information about fall Orientation and to view the schedule of events, please visit laurentian.ca/orientation.