Applying Research Methods
Directed Studies – Fall 2022
Collaborated with a fellow undergraduate student under Dr. Kinsgley Donkor and Dr. Naowarat Cheeptham to develop a method to determine uric acid concentrations in human saliva using capillary electrophoresis. Tried different methods to ensure accurate determination of concentration. Was able to apply the method to determine the concentrations of uric acid in saliva samples from patients in the local ICU.
NSERC USRA – Summer 2023
Worked under Dr. Eric Bottos to create microbial dispersal chambers to manipulate microbial community dispersal in soil samples. Learned to create and design 3D models of printable chambers using the TRU Makerspace. Used local forest and grassland soil samples and sequenced the community 16S gene after manipulation in the novel incubation chambers.
Human Physiology II Research Project – Winter 2024
Developed and conducted a research study with human participants determining the effects on dietary nitrate on oxygen consumption efficiency during exercise. The data from the study was recorded, analyzed, and presented orally. For the data analysis, software such as JASP was used to analyze metrics such as oxygen consumption efficiency and respiratory exchange ratio. I was responsible for all of the data analysis and background information, but collaborated heavily to ensure complete report was well structured.
NSERC USRA – Summer 2024
Worked under Dr. Mark Rakobowchuk to continue the analysis of existing data, continue testing on participants and begin the development of a published research paper. Analyzed different ultrasound clips using CAROLAB software to determine changes in blood vessel diameter. Our work determined the impacts of acute exercise on endothelial function in the arm following a high sodium diet. Developed the ability to use ultrasound imaging on the brachial arteries to quantify flow-mediated dilation.
Honours Thesis – Ongoing
Created an Honours Proposal containing an extensive literature review (pages 1-3) alongside various methods and procedures that were developed to assess the various metrics of the Honours project. The project analyzes the impact of an acute hypotonic load on endothelial function and baroreflex sensitivity following high sodium diet. The results from this work will be synthesized into a Thesis, defended, and likely published in an academic journal.
