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 past research experience has solidified my passion for antiviral research. As a member of the Pantophlet Lab, I have had the opportunity to develop a wide range of laboratory skills, including flow cytometry, protein purification, and mammalian tissue culture. These skills have allowed me to contribute to ongoing research projects and make meaningful contributions to the lab’s efforts to design more effective vaccines against viruses such as HIV and influenza.

In addition to my primary research responsibilities, I play an important role in mentoring and supporting other members of the lab. As a research-experienced lab member, I am able to guide and assist less-experienced lab members with their research work, providing them with the knowledge and support they need to succeed. I take great pride in helping others and fostering a positive and collaborative environment within the lab.

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 1 (2024-present)
Lab Assistant (2023-2024)
Undergraduate research intern (2022)
oxing@sfu.ca

Research

I graduated from Simon Fraser University in 2023 with a Bachelor’s degree majoring in Biological Sciences with a focus on cells, molecules, and physiology and a minor in Health Sciences specializing in life science. I have a deep interest in the field of immunology, and I am particularly eager to delve into vaccine research. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be a member of the Pantophlet Lab, where I have been able to contribute to ongoing research on understanding mutational pathways that lead to the development of broadly reactive neutralizing antibodies targeting the antigenically conserved hemagglutinin stem of flu viruses. This research aims to improve the effectiveness of current flu vaccines and develop new, more effective vaccines in the future. I am excited to continue learning and growing in this field as I pursue further education and professional opportunities.

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.

Sadra Afshar Moghaddam, Undergraduate Student (Simon Fraser University)
Undergraduate research intern (2023-present)
sadra_afshar_moghaddam@sfu.ca

Research

I am a third-year Health Sciences major in the BSc Life Sciences concentration and am fascinated with biology-centric courses, including genetics, pathophysiology, and biochemistry. My career ambition is to secure a position in the medical field and positively impact people’s lives. I am thrilled by the opportunity to volunteer in the Pantophlet Lab and provide general support to active projects.

Other Interests

I love playing soccer in my free time and enjoy listening to 50s and 60s Blues music, especially from James Booker. Traveling and exploring new places is a life goal of mine; I enjoy learning about different cultures and cuisines and gaining perspective on how people live their lives around the world.

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.

Ines Ciccateri, Undergraduate Student (Simon Fraser University)
Undergraduate research intern (2024-present)
ines_ciccateri@sfu.ca

Research

I’m a second-year Health Sciences student excited to volunteer in the Pantophlet Lab to provide general lab support, gain hands-on experience and learn more about vaccine immunology. I hope the knowledge and skills I gain here will aid my understanding and learning of health sciences as I continue my degree.

Other Interests

Outside of academics, I am passionate about physical activity and getting outdoors! I currently row with SFU’s Rowing Club and in my spare time I like to rock climb, hike, and read.

Sayma Hussain, BSc (The University of British Columbia Okanagan)
Postgraduate research intern (2024-present)
sayma_hussain@sfu.ca

Research

I am excited to contribute to the Pantophlet Lab, where we explore antibody responses to viruses to design better vaccines. My project focuses on refining antibody display on yeast to improve antibody expression and antigen binding. This work not only deepens our understanding of immune responses but also advances the development of innovative approaches for antibody discovery against viruses that are significant to global health.

Other Interests

You will often find me chilling with friends, watching movies, and listening to music in my downtime. I also enjoy capturing the beauty of nature and architecture through my camera lens. Badminton is another passion – I am always up for a game!

Sue Kang, Undergraduate Student (Simon Fraser University)
Undergraduate research intern (2024-present)
sue_kang@sfu.ca

Research

As a 4th-year Biomedical Physiology student, I have substantial hands-on laboratory experience. My co-op placements included roles as a Microbiology Laboratory Technician at Bureau Veritas and as a BioBank Research Assistant at BC Children’s Hospital. I am passionate about research and look forward to contributing to the Pantophlet Lab. I am eager to apply my skills, learn new techniques, and gain further knowledge. I am excited about the potential to grow and actively participate in cutting-edge research.

Other Interests

In my spare time, I enjoy staying active and being outdoors. I love running, playing sports and going on hikes. I also enjoy spending time with friends, travelling, and trying new food.

Kiana Roshanzamir, Undergraduate Student (The University of British Columbia)
Undergraduate research intern (2024-present)
kroshanz@student.ubc.ca

Research

I have just finished my first year at the University of British Columbia, where I hope to major in biochemistry. My enthusiasm for science has driven me to seek volunteer opportunities, and I am particularly excited about the prospect of contributing to the Pantophlet lab. I am very excited to experience being in the lab, learn more about the research, and explore my interests in science further.

Other Interests

I enjoy journalling in my notebooks in the morning and cooking delicious meals. I also cherish spending time with family and friends, watching movies and dancing to pop music.