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

Research

I recently graduated from Simon Fraser University, earning my Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences with a focus on cells, molecules, and physiology. Additionally, I completed a minor in Health Sciences with a specialization in life science. My studies have sparked a deep interest in the field of immunology, and I am particularly eager to delve into the area of 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, Undergraduate Student (Simon Fraser University)
BSc Honours (2024)
angela_omrani@sfu.ca

Research

I am a Beedie Luminaries Scholar and 4th-year student at SFU majoring in molecular biology and biochemistry, with a minor in biological sciences and a certificate in genomics. My journey through undergraduate studies has been distinct from that of many of my peers, sculpting a resilient and adaptive character within me. I am excited to pursue Honours research in the Pantophlet Lab on profiling antibody responses to a germline-targeting HIV vaccine immunogen in a human-antibody transgenic mouse model. I am passionate about research and hope to pursue graduate school in the future.

Other Interests

In my spare time, I’m dedicated to learning and developing new skills. One of my current pursuits is learning Italian, which I find quite enjoyable. Swimming is another activity I’m passionate about; it’s my preferred method for relaxation. Additionally, I take pleasure in cooking, especially when it involves experimenting with various recipes and flavors.

Ernest Hoptioncann, Undergraduate Student (Simon Fraser University)
HSCI 489 Undergraduate student researcher (2024)
ernest_hoptioncann@sfu.ca

Research

As a 4th-year student in the Faculty of Health Sciences, I possess a deep interest in immunology, a field I plan to explore further. My studies in vaccine development have been eye-opening, particularly in the area of structure-based vaccine design, which I find incredibly compelling. The opportunity to engage in a Directed Research project at the Pantophlet Lab excites me greatly. Here, I will investigate the diversity of stem-helix/S2 antibodies in individuals vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2, as well as in those with combined immunity from prior infection and vaccination. This project will not only advance my laboratory techniques but also sharpen my critical thinking and data analysis skills.

Other Interests

Watersports have been a large part of my life since I was young and I still profoundly enjoy swimming and playing waterpolo. More recently I have taken an interest in kayaking both solo and tandem around the coast. I am also a history enthusiast, with a particular appreciation for learning about the events in the mid to late 20th century.

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.

Jason (Myung Ho) Eom, Undergraduate Student (Simon Fraser University)
HSCI 489 Undergraduate student researcher (2024)
jason_eom@sfu.ca

Research

I am in my fourth year at Simon Fraser University, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences. My academic interests have been particularly piqued by the rise of new viral threats, such as SARS-CoV-2, driving my curiosity toward understanding the complexities of the immune system and the evolving landscape of vaccine research and development. Joining Dr. Pantophlet’s lab represents a significant opportunity to deepen my knowledge and understanding in these areas. I am enthusiastic about collaborating with the esteemed team members in the lab, and I am confident that this experience will be immensely enriching for my academic and professional growth.

Other Interests

I am passionate about engaging in various sports, particularly Olympic-style recurve archery. Additionally, I am an enthusiastic supporter of the Vancouver Canucks hockey team.