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"I have enjoyed meeting several like-minded, passionate, committed, and knowledgeable people from diverse backgrounds, mainly within the Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology department and especially within my lab – an incredible place to learn and grow."
Sneha Ralli
Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology doctoral student in the Faculty of Science
My name is Sneha Ralli, and I am a Ph.D. candidate at Simon Fraser University. I work in the cancer genetics lab to investigate the genetic basis of lymphoid cancer susceptibility using exome sequencing. Knowing my work will help advance the work of other researchers and contribute towards transforming or even saving lives is very rewarding.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO COME TO SFU?
I came to SFU as I was drawn towards Dr. Brooks-Wilson's research on familial lymphoid cancers. Working in her lab has allowed me to carry out cancer research that combines two disciplines of my interest: bioinformatics and genetics.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR RESEARCH OR YOUR PROGRAM TO A FAMILY MEMBER?
In my research, I identify changes in DNA passed on from one generation to another in families affected with lymphoid cancers, a type of blood cancer that develops when white blood cells called lymphocytes grow out of control.
WHAT ARE YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOYING ABOUT YOUR STUDIES/RESEARCH AT SFU?
I have enjoyed meeting several like-minded, passionate, committed, and knowledgeable people from diverse backgrounds, mainly within the Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology department and especially within my lab – an incredible place to learn and grow. I love the opportunity to share my enthusiasm for science and spark excitement about science in young minds by volunteering with the let's talk science, geneskool and science outreach program.
HAVE YOU BEEN THE RECIPIENT OF ANY MAJOR OR DONOR-FUNDED AWARDS? IF SO, PLEASE TELL US WHICH ONES AND A LITTLE ABOUT HOW THE AWARDS HAVE IMPACTED YOUR STUDIES AND/OR RESEARCH.
I have been very fortunate in receiving various scholarships and awards, including the Graduate Fellowship. I'm grateful for receiving the awards, as they have helped me focus on my research and alleviate the pressure to take on additional work to support myself through graduate school.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PROGRAM/POSTDOC POSITION TO SOMEONE STILL SEARCHING FOR A PROGRAM OR POSTDOC POSITION?
The Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology graduate program is interesting as you get to choose a focused research area for your thesis and provides you with the prospect to take courses that enable you to learn across disciplines. The Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology community provides you with many opportunities to connect with your peers. The cancer genetics lab is a great lab to be a part of, as you are very well supported, guided, and encouraged with constructive meetings and discussions about your research.
Contact : sralli@sfu.ca