Name: Nick Fernandez
Lab Position: MSc Student
Degree: BSc
Education: Bachelors of Science, Mount Allison University, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, 2020
What’s your research background?
I started working in cancer research with Dr. Jason Berman, investigating xenograft models of head and neck cancers in zebrafish before completing my honours research under Dr. Jillian Rourke on the characterization of orphan G-protein coupled receptors. My current project in the Tabori lab leverages the cohort of gliomas gathered by the IRRDC to characterize the first genetic and epigenetic landscape of primary replication repair deficient gliomas.
Do you have any advice for someone interested in a career in research?
More than anything, strong and compassionate mentorship has been the key to my development both personally and in research! Finding a PI or other senior researcher who understands and supports your goals is far more important than the subject area.
What are your interests outside of science?
As someone who grew up on the East Coast of Canada, I love spending time on and in the water. I also enjoy singing and playing cello, guitar and piano; joining choirs, orchestras and bands in my free time!
What’s your favorite food?
Fresh baked bread has been a quarantine treat.
Do you prefer coffee, tea, or none?
Cold brew for sure!