Alicyia Walczyk - Mooradally

Program(s)

Molecular & Cellular Biology and Neuroscience

Why I chose Guelph?

During my undergraduate degree at the University of Guelph I was able to join the MCB department in my third year as a work study student. It was my first exposure to an academic research lab and since then I never wanted to leave! I continued on to complete a fourth year project and was a summer student. The fall after I received my BSc. I joined the department as a graduate student. The department is filled with amazing faculty and other students who create an amazing workspace for conducting research. The gorgeous campus and excellent students and staff made me want to stay at Guelph for a couple more years.

About my advisor...

My advisor Dr. Jasmin Lalonde was an excellent mentor. His expertise in neuroscience and molecular biology allowed me to continuously grow as a researcher. He was always available to help me troubleshoot my experiments and gave me advice and support. His excellent teaching skills helped me continue to mature into a successful researcher over the course of my graduate studies.    

About the campus...

The UofG campus is absolutely stunning! There is nothing better than being able to sit on Johnston Green and read a book in the middle of the summer.

How will my work Improve Life?

My research focused on studying the underlying molecular mechanisms which contribute to synaptic plasticity. By understanding these key underpinnings which contribute to learning and memory, this can be extrapolated to help researchers understand the pathophysiology of neurological diseases such as Bipolar Disease, Alzheimer's disease, and Schizophrenia, hopefully leading to the identification of improved pharmacological treatments.

My future plans...

I hope to continue my love for research by pursuing further graduate studies. Guelph has been amazing in helping me develop the core skills I need to be a successful researcher and pursue my goals within academia.