News

By: Casey Spears

“I believe research is to be used as a tool to create developments and advances. It is about harnessing curiosity and creativity with a meaningful intention to learn,” Amy Unicomb, Bible Hill native, expresses.

Excelling in her Bachelor of Science Agriculture in Animal Sciences program, Amy was awarded an Undergraduate Student Research Award (USRA) from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC).

The award has a $4,500 value for a full 16-week period. USRA is intended to stimulate an interest in research in the natural sciences or engineering as well as encourage students to pursue graduate studies or research related careers.

“I value working with health and wellness, both as a part of my research and volunteer work because I feelthrough lifestyle and diet are underappreciated advocates of health,” Amy explains.

Her interest in health and wellness grew as she volunteered as a recreational coordinator in the geriatric unit of the local hospital and as a horticultural therapist at a senior’s home. There, she had the opportunity to implement therapeutic treatments for patients who are suffering with mental and physical deterioration. The endeavours motivated her to continue on the path of healthcare work.

“To me, research is more about seeking and experiencing progress, not simply asking a question and discovering an answer,” Amy explains.

With the joint effort of her and her supervisor, Dr. Chibuike Udenigwe, Amy is investigating the potential of whey peptides (by-products of the dairy industry) to prevent oxidative damage, which is associated with various degenerate diseases. “I have gained an inspiring initiation into a formal research field that I am passionate about and look forward to expanding upon the foundation of inquiry I began last summer,” Amy explains.

Amy began the lengthy process of applying when Dr. Udenigwe encouraged her to apply. “I felt motivated to apply for this award for the research funding opportunity it provided,” Amy says. She found out she was one of the winning candidates in March. “I was so grateful and relieved when I found out I had won. Obtaining such a prestigious award is an honour.”

“NSERC provides me an employment opportunity I may not otherwise have. Research awards and scholarships like the NSERC give undergraduate students, perhaps with little to no research experience, the chance to learn from an experienced and knowledgeable supervisor while enhancing not only their research skills, but critical thinking and lab experience as well,” Amy explains.

In her NSERC application, Amy wrote “as a prospective medical student, my goal is to be an advocate of wellbeing and an integral part of a healthcare team.” It’s obvious from her dedication and passion towards health issues that Amy was an ideal candidate for this scholarship and will discover valuable information during her placement.