My name is Olga and I’m a PhD student in the Department of Medical Biophysics, where I am co-supervised by Dr. Michael Taylor and Dr. Rutka. The focus of my project is on identifying metabolic vulnerabilities in medulloblastoma leptomeningeal metastasis. I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Toronto, where I majored in Neuroscience and Stem cells/Developmental biology with a minor in Immunology.

Looking back, I think it has everything to do with my mentors and the people who continue to inspire me. I was very fortunate in undergrad to be a part of several unforgettable (albeit, diverse) experiences when I worked in various labs. From evolutionary biology to Drosophila research and neurobiology to palliative care and even traumatic brain injury work on Canadian military veterans, all of these experiences had one thing in common — I was surrounded by talented individuals who found a niche they not only thrived in, but loved and deeply cared about.

Truthfully, I don’t know if I’ve found my niche yet because I’m constantly trying to be better and do more. I suppose this is why I love science though. It feels limitless to me in a way. As someone who has always felt like a square peg in a round hole, I enjoy the freedom of carving my path as I go and working with likeminded people who enjoy the thrill of discovery as much as I do.

The people. I have been so fortunate to work on a number of projects and collaborate with several groups in the BTRC. I am endlessly in awe of the creative thinking, sheer amount of expertise, and the collaborative dynamic fostered in our department. I don’t think it will ever cease to inspire me and I hope the same will remain true for future trainees.

When I started my PhD fresh out of undergrad, I was mesmerized (and wildly intimidated!) by everyone I met in the BTRC. I remember sitting in seminar and seeing all the amazing research being done wondering what had I gotten myself into! As much as undergraduate research experiences and courses prepare you for a PhD, there’s no textbook that you can cram in one night and become an expert in your field. There is no “guide book” on how to publish in high impact journals. And even once you get a basic grasp on things, there are five people waiting in line to try and do it better. So what advice would I give? Trust in yourself. I’ve learned more from my failures than my successes. As you become more senior in your degree, you realize that the best scientific discoveries come from taking risks. So be brave! Ask questions! And as for fear of failure? All I can say is that for every 99 times I’ve had an experiment fail, that 1 time it works and you succeed on your own merits? Nothing sweeter exists.

My interests fluctuate over time. I’ve always enjoyed reading books, but these days I’m exclusively enamored with fantasy novels. I love discussing characters with my book club and of course, writing scathing reviews on Goodreads. Daily yoga routines have become a must to maintain my sanity and I’ve developed a newfound appreciation for indoor cycling and podcasts. My favourite pastime, however, is spending time with my family and watching tv shows with my mom.

I think Natalie Portman would be a good fit. I love how charismatic she is and you can tell she’s someone who does her research before taking on a role. She strikes me as a person who is observant, ambitious, and an empath — features that I believe embody my personality well. However, I am certainly more sarcastic and cynical than she is, but I’m sure I could teach her a thing or two.