Andy Garnier
Participated in the Popularization challenge of Science POP with a talk titled "Des pixels au progr猫s : d茅couvrant des m茅dicaments par criblage virtuel" (From pixels to progress: discovering drugs through virtual screening).
What do you research?
My research is centered around exploiting synthetic lethal targets for a specific type of ovarian cancer called SCCOHT. To do this, I'm using in silico methods to find potential drugs and testing them in the lab.听
Tell us about your interest in science communications
Science communication is an important, yet often overlooked, aspect of our work as researchers. I believe the ultimate goal of scientific research is to better understand our world (and beyond!) and to use that knowledge to help people. To be able to help people, we need to be able to communicate our findings and have an open line of dialogue where ideas can flourish. I love the idea of being a liaison between the scientific community and the community at large, which sparked my interest in science communication. Science POP was the perfect opportunity to pursue this interest!
Describe your experience with Science POP
Science POP gives the opportunity to present in three different challenges: popularization, valorization, and mobilization. I chose to participate in the popularization challenge, the task being to explain a core aspect of my research. In preparing, I focused my efforts in making a fun and dynamic presentation that would help in my explanations. There were many great presentations at McGill's internal competition which I was lucky enough to win and have the opportunity to present at the Grand Provincial Final. The final was two days of captivating presentations from the 30 finalists from 15 institutions across Quebec. This was an amazing opportunity to get a glimpse of the science being done in the province and to meet the people behind the work. I'm excited to participate in next year's edition of Science POP!
What are your future objectives?
I plan to continue to participate in more science communication opportunities as they arise! I would like to foremost thank my supervisor Prof. Sid Huang for his endless support, Prof. Diane Dechief for the lessons she's given me in science communication, and the IRCM and FRQS for making Science POP possible.
Jamie Magrill
Participated in the Valorization challenge of Science POP with a talk titled "New research will improve melanoma treatment and patient outcomes".
What do you research?
In my research, I focus on understanding how the immune system responds to targeted therapy and immunotherapy in melanoma patients. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that is a significant health concern, and unfortunately, it accounts for the majority of skin-cancer related fatalities. Our goal is to uncover new markers that can predict patient response to these treatments. By using advanced imaging and molecular profiling technologies, we analyze the interactions between immune cells and melanoma cancer cells. This research has the potential to improve patient outcomes, increase survival rates, and reduce healthcare costs by tailoring treatment plans to individual patients.
Tell us about your interest in science communications
I've always had a passion for science and a strong belief in the importance of sharing knowledge with the public. Since 2016, I've been involved with Let's Talk Science, a Canadian science outreach and education organization. Through this experience, I realized the power of science communication in inspiring and educating others. That's why I decided to participate in the Science POP initiative. It provided an incredible platform to share my research and engage with a wider audience, allowing me to bridge the gap between scientific discoveries and the general public.
Describe your experience with Science POP
Regarding my experience with Science POP, I prepared my speech in both French and English to cater to a diverse audience. The events were dynamic and interactive, with engaging discussions and thought-provoking questions. Although I didn't win, I was extremely proud to place third. It was an enriching experience that further fueled my passion for science communication and motivated me to continue sharing my work with others.
What are your future objectives?
In addition to my involvement in science communication, I am also the CEO of a startup currently in the McGill Dobson X-1 Accelerator! As part of my role, I utilize my science communication skills to effectively pitch our medical device product, which helps prevent needlestick injuries. Moving forward, I plan to continue my work in science education and outreach with McGill, Melanoma Canada, and Let's Talk Science. I am excited to make further contributions in the field of melanoma research and continue advocating for science communication as a powerful tool for positive change.