Kurtis Ng, MSc (University of Alberta)
Research Assistant/Tech 3 (2023-present)
Research Assistant/Tech 2 (2020-2023)
Research Assistant (2019-2020)
kwn5@sfu.ca

Research

My passion for antiviral research has been strengthened through diverse research experiences, and my time in the Pantophlet Lab has allowed me to refine a broad set of laboratory skills, including flow cytometry, protein purification, and mammalian tissue culture. These skills support my contributions to projects aimed at developing more effective vaccines against viruses such as HIV and influenza. In addition to my research responsibilities, I serve as a key technical resource for the lab. I play an active role in mentoring and supporting colleagues, sharing expertise, and helping troubleshoot experiments. This has positioned me as the lab’s go-to person for technical guidance and day-to-day operations.

I take pride in fostering a collaborative and supportive environment where others can thrive, and I am committed to ensuring the lab continues to run smoothly and productively.

Other Interests

I am an easy-going and cheerful individual with great love for nature and travelling. I enjoy hiking, kayaking and skiing when on vacation. In particular, I love spending time with my family and friends meandering along a nice easy trail where relaxed and delightful conversations can take place.

Yuchen (Olivia) Xing, BSc (Simon Fraser University)
Research Assistant/Tech 2 (2025-present)
Research Assistant/Tech 1 (2024-2025)
Lab Assistant (2023-2024)
oxing@sfu.ca

Research

I joined the Pantophlet Lab as a volunteer in 2022, where I began contributing to projects on mutational pathways that drive the development of broadly reactive neutralizing antibodies against the conserved stem of influenza hemagglutinin. This work supports efforts to improve existing influenza vaccines and guide the design of next-generation approaches. In 2023, I completed a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences at Simon Fraser University, with a focus on cells, molecules, and physiology, alongside a minor in Health Sciences (life sciences stream). My academic background deepened my interest in immunology and vaccine research.

Being part of the lab has been an invaluable opportunity to learn and grow as a researcher, and I look forward to continuing to develop my skills while pursuing further education and professional opportunities in this field.

Other Interests

I like watching movies and reading fictions in my free time. I love nature and often go on walks along the beach or in the woods. I have also been playing the flute for 14 years and enjoy playing or listening to music to relax. Additionally, I love spending time with my family and my dog, as well as cooking and bird-watching.

Angela Omrani, BSc (Simon Fraser University)
Graduate student (2024-present)
BSc Honours (2024)
angela_omrani@sfu.ca

Research

I am a Beedie Luminaries Scholar and a Master’s student at SFU, specializing in molecular biology and biochemistry. My educational journey has been unique, fostering resilience and adaptability from many past challenges. Having completed my Honour’s project in the Pantophlet Lab, I am eager to continue contributing to research using a human-antibody transgenic mouse model on possible avenues to induce broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) with a germline-targeting HIV-1 vaccine candidate. I am passionate about research and aspire to attend medical school after completing my Master’s.

Other Interests

In my spare time, I enjoy learning and developing new skills. I am passionate about swimming, hiking and reading, and I also love a good TV show or movie marathon.

Ali Nejatie, PhD (Simon Fraser University)
Research Associate (2024-present)
anejatie@sfu.ca

Research

I am a dedicated researcher with a PhD in Chemistry, passionate about developing diagnostics and therapies for human diseases and cancer. I have over ten years of experience in organic synthesis, enzymology, chemical biology, glycobiology, molecular biology, and translational medicine. I have developed assays, designed and synthesized immunogens, screened antibody-secreting hybridomas, and tested drugs in cancer mouse models. I have also produced and purified antibodies and antigens and conducted high-throughput screenings of bioactive molecules. My work has resulted in publications, patents, and presentations, reflecting my commitment to advancing science. At the Pantophlet Lab, I am excited to contribute to ongoing research and help develop innovative antibody therapeutics for the PROGENITER project.

Other Interests

I love to travel and explore nature with my family. When I have free time, I love to discover BC’s craft beer culture and often brew my concoctions from time to time.

Annabella Wang, Undergraduate Student (Simon Fraser University)
BSc Honours student (2025-present)
Undergraduate research intern (2024)
annabella_wang@sfu.ca

Research

I am a fourth-year student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences at Simon Fraser University. My experience with allergen immunotherapy ignited my fascination with the immune system and sparked a deep interest in immunology and vaccine development. The power of the immune system offers unlimited research potential. I am eager to expand my knowledge beyond the classroom and excited about the opportunity to contribute to real-world applications in the Pantophlet lab. I am incredibly excited by my Honours project in the lab.

Other Interests

I enjoy watching documentaries and TV series, as well as reading fiction and popular science books. Travelling is one of my favourite ways to enjoy vacations, as it helps me recharge while exploring diverse landscapes. I also love spending time with friends, whether we are relaxing on a sunny beach, hunting for great food, or cooking at home together.

Craig Robb, PhD (University of Victoria)
Research Associate (2025-present)
craig_robb@sfu.ca

Research

My research centers on the discovery, design, and optimization of antibodies targeting viral pathogens. I focus on engineering high-affinity, broadly neutralizing antibodies against viral surface proteins from respiratory viruses. By integrating structure-guided design and computational modelling, I develop soluble antigens and B cell probes to facilitate immune profiling and monoclonal antibody selection. I clone, produce, purify, and characterize antibodies and antigens to find the gems. Combined with structural biology, I hope to bring novel therapeutics to the fore.

Other Interests

When I’m not in the lab, I find balance through hiking, gardening, and traveling.

Kesha Patel, Undergraduate Student
Undergraduate research intern (2025-present)
kesha_girishkumar_patel@sfu.ca

Research

I am a fourth-year Molecular Biology and Biochemistry student at Simon Fraser University. I joined the Pantophlet Lab as an undergraduate volunteer to gain research experience and learn about the daily operations of a research environment. My responsibilities include maintaining lab organization and cleanliness, autoclaving and restocking labware and consumables, and assisting with the management of biohazard waste. Through this role, I’m developing foundational lab skills and gaining insight into the routines that support experimental research.

Other Interests

Outside the lab, I spend much of my free time painting—on canvas or pottery—exploring color and texture. I also enjoy immersing myself in philosophical books that spark reflection and new perspectives. When I want to unwind, I’m happiest by the beach or any body of water, taking in the calm of my surroundings. I practice yoga regularly and play badminton occasionally.

Dylan Kormendy, Undergraduate Student
Undergraduate research intern (2025-present)
dylan_kormendy@sfu.ca

Research

I am a fifth-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry at Simon Fraser University. As a volunteer in the Pantophlet Lab, I support research operations by preparing buffers and media, maintaining lab supplies, and ensuring a clean and organized work environment. Through this role, I am gaining valuable hands-on experience in immunology and vaccine research, and I enjoy collaborating with other lab members as part of a dynamic research team. I’m particularly interested in understanding how molecular and biochemical mechanisms can be applied to design more effective antiviral strategies.

Other Interests

I was a varsity swimmer on SFU’s swim team for four years, training and competing at the national level across the United States in NCAA Division II. Outside the pool, I enjoy spending time outdoors—fishing, hiking, and being with friends and family. I also like to unwind by cooking and baking with friends.

Sana Mostofizadehghalamfarsa, Undergraduate Student
Undergraduate research intern (2025-present)
sana_mostofizadehghalamfarsa@sfu.ca

Research

I am a fifth-year Biology major at SFU. I joined the Pantophlet Lab as an undergraduate volunteer to gain hands-on experience in infectious disease immunology and to contribute to research in a collaborative environment. My responsibilities in the lab include maintaining lab organization, managing biohazard waste, and restocking essential lab supplies. My coursework and prior lab experience have provided me with a strong foundation in experimental techniques, data handling, and teamwork, which I continue to build on through this role.

Other Interests

Outside the lab, I enjoy creative activities like drawing, as well as outdoor hobbies such as swimming and paddle boarding. I also love taking my cats on walks and spending time with friends and family.