Name: Victoria Forster
Lab Position: Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Degree: B.Sc., PhD
What’s your background?
I came to the lab in early 2017 having done my undergraduate degree and PhD in the UK. My research focus before coming to the lab focused on the genetics of leukaemia, stem cells and neurological differentiation and the neurological side-effects of chemotherapy.
What research projects are you currently working on?
Most of my work involves human-based models of RRD to look at how RRD cancers develop. I make brain organoids from tiny amount of skin cells donated by our patients and also colon organoids from samples given by patients when they have routine screening operations. I also work on a few projects with our RRD blood cancer samples to try and figure out whether RRD blood cancers are different from those without RRD and how this might influence treatment recommendations.
Do you have any advice for someone interested in a career in research?
Research relies greatly on creativity, teamwork, communication and problem-solving, so spend time curating those skills and interests, whether it be through art, music or team sports and activities. Really successful research scientists are rarely one-dimensional so its important to dedicate time to interests outside of science too!
What are your interests outside of science?
I really like cooking, gardening, craft beer and live music and am desperately trying to learn several Canadian winter sports including cross country skiing and ice skating.
What’s your favorite food?
Sushi and Japanese food.
Do you prefer coffee, tea, or none?
Coffee and tea!