SHAD Students Learn About Local Patient-Centred Research
by Marcello Bernardo
During the two hour visit on July 14th, 65 SHAD students interacted with scientists and toured the research areas of the Health Sciences Centre. Scientists and staff at the Thunder Bay Regional Research Institute are continuing to inspire the next generation.
For the sixth consecutive summer, the research arm of the Health Sciences Centre welcomed a group of gifted high school students in the exclusive SHAD program, exposing them to a potential career in patient-centred research. The SHAD program was hosted locally by Lakehead University and included students from across Canada and from around the world.
During the two hour visit on July 14th, 65 students interacted with scientists and toured the research areas of the Health Sciences Centre. In addition to getting up close and personal with technology such as functional magnetic resonance imaging, high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), and the cyclotron, the students also learned about the unique health challenges facing Northwestern Ontario.
“It provides a great opportunity for our researchers to showcase the work they’re doing, and how it can benefit patient care,” says Dr. Roxanne Deslauriers, Scientific Director at the Research Institute. “This also allows us to highlight the variety of academic and professional options that exist in areas such as science and research.”
SHAD is a registered Canadian charity that empowers exceptional high school students – at a pivotal point in their education – to recognize their own capabilities and envision their extraordinary potential as tomorrow’s leaders and change makers. Each year, SHAD provides the opportunity for 600+ students from across Canada and internationally to attend a month-long summer program, in-residence at one of 12 Canadian host universities, focused on STEM (science, technology, engineering & math). There are currently more than 14,000 SHAD alumni including 27 Rhodes Scholars, Top 40 under 40 & Top 20 Under 20 award recipients, and many other accomplished professionals, all sharing the transformational SHAD experience and able to leverage their SHAD network for life. Founded in 1980, SHAD is based in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
Students selected through the rigorous, competitive process for places in the summer program are top performers typically with grades over 90%, who are also well-rounded emerging leaders demonstrating initiative, creativity and flair. They are leaders in their schools, volunteers in their communities, and are often gifted musicians, artists and athletes.
Visit www.shad.ca to learn more about the SHAD program.
