SHAD Students Learn About Patient-Centred Research at TBRRI
by Marcello Bernardo
Dr. Samuel Pichardo, a TBRRI scientist and Adjunct Professor at Lakehead University, explains how high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) works to a group of SHAD students during their recent visit to Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre.Scientists and staff at the Thunder Bay Regional Research Institute (TBRRI) are continuing to inspire the next generation.
For the fifth consecutive summer, TBRRI (Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre’s research arm) has participated in the exclusive SHAD program, exposing gifted high school students to a potential career in patient-centred research.
On July 16th, TBRRI scientists and staff welcomed 65 students and 6 Program Assistants from the SHAD program which is being hosted locally by Lakehead University. During the two hour visit, the students interacted with TBRRI scientists and toured the research areas of the Health Sciences Centre. In addition to getting up close and personal with technology such as positron emission tomography (PET), high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), and the cyclotron, the students also learned about the unique health challenges facing Northwestern Ontario.
“The SHAD program includes students from across Canada and from around the world. It provides a great opportunity for us as researchers to showcase the work we’re doing, and how it can benefit patient care”, says Brieanne Olibris, a TBRRI Research Assistant who studies the experience of opioid addiction during pregnancy with local OB/GYN, Dr. Naana Jumah.
As a former SHAD participant, Brieanne also recognizes the value it adds to a student’s academic and professional journey. “It was a truly enriching experience that allowed me to strengthen my skills, meet like-minded individuals, and learn about the variety of career opportunities 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.
