Dr. Shyamchand Mayengbam, Co-chair
Dr. Mayengbam is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biochemistry at Memorial University of Newfoundland. He specializes in nutritional biochemistry, with expertise in metabolomics and research on the gut microbiome. His research focuses on understanding how dietary nutrients affect gut-host interactions. His current research delves into the effects of B vitamin deficiencies, including folate, B12, and B6, on one-carbon and tryptophan-kynurenine metabolism, and their subsequent impact on gut homeostasis.
Dr. Sukhinder Cheema, Co-chair
Dr. Cheema is a Professor in the Department of Biochemistry at Memorial University of Newfoundland, and is cross-appointed to the Faculty of Medicine. She is also an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Applied Human Nutrition, Mount St. Vincent University. Dr. Cheema is one of the leading scientists in Canada to study developmental origins of health and disease, with a focus on maternal dietary fat intake, pregnancy outcome, and the metabolic regulation of the offspring. She has 35+ years of experience in using animal and cell-culture models to study nutrient-gene interaction, and develop dietary based therapeutic strategies to improve brain function and to prevent cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, inflammation, and cancer.
Dr. Karen Doody, Co-chair
Dr. Doody is an Assistant Professor in the Environmental Science program at Grenfell Campus, Memorial University of Newfoundland, as well as a faculty member of the Functional Food and Sensory Lab (Grenfell Campus). Dr. Doody is an early career biochemist with 20 years of experience in using molecular biology, cell biology, and animal models to understand mechanisms of chronic disease and develop novel therapeutics. Her lab is focused on understanding impacts of environmental factors - including food and nutrition - on human health
Azka Tauqeer, Student volunteer
This is Azka Tauqeer, a graduate student in Biochemistry at Memorial University of Newfoundland. I am interested in exploring the intricate relationship between microbial biotechnology and bioprocessing techniques for sustainable solutions. Currently, my research focuses on synthesizing vitamin B from fish waste. Let's step into the world where science meets innovation!
Nancy Rawal, Student Volunteer
Hey everyone! I hold a Master's in Pharmacology and am currently immersed in the Biochemistry world at Memorial University. Originally from the vibrant land of India, I love blending academic curiosity with clear communication. Let's dive into some science and chat about all things learning and beyond!
Narges Ghorbani Bavani, Student Volunteer
I am Narges Ghorbani Bavani, and I completed both my BSc and MSc degrees in nutrition from Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in Iran. Following my graduation, I pursued a career as a registered dietitian. Currently, I am enrolled as a PhD student at Memorial University, under the supervision of Dr. Zahra Farahnak. My research focuses on investigating the effects of vitamin D and DHA supplementation on vitamin D metabolism and muscle strength in rats subjected to a high-fat diet.
Farinaz Aarabi Najvani, Student volunteer
This is Farinaz Aarabi Najvani, an ambitious professional pursuing an MSc. in Boreal Ecosystem & Agricultural Science (BEAS) at Grenfell Campus, Memorial University of Newfoundland. As a member of the Marine Biomass Innovation (MBI) project, my academic background and interest are chiefly based on multi-disciplinary fields of study combining Food Science, Food Chemistry, Biochemistry, and cell culture focusing on health benefits.
Let’s communicate more if you’re driven by a passion for this scientific area and everything related to that.
Aliya Seward, Student Volunteer
My name is Aliya Seward, and I am in my final year of Applied Human Nutrition at Mount Saint Vincent University. I will be entering into my dietetic internship this year and look forward to taking the next step towards becoming a Registered Dietitian. My interests lie in the role of nutrition in public health, as well as working towards more equitable and sustainable food systems across Atlantic Canada.
Kelsey Molloy, Student volunteer
Hi everyone! My name is Kelsey Molloy, and I am a fourth-year undergraduate student at Memorial University majoring in Behavioral Neuroscience and Biochemistry (Nutrition). I am currently completing my honors thesis under the supervision of Dr. Cheema. I have a love for research specifically in examining the roles of nutrition on chronic disease pathology. Let's discuss how nutritional choices can impact your health!
Mahya Akbari, Student volunteer
I am Mahya Akbari, currently pursuing an MSc. in Boreal Ecosystem & Agricultural Science at Grenfell Campus, Memorial University of Newfoundland. My academic background and interests encompass diverse and interdisciplinary domains, including agriculture, functional food, biochemistry, cell culture, rheumatoid arthritis, and aging.
Aluet Mabior, Student Volunteer
My name is Aluet Mabior, and I'm a third-year student pursuing Applied Human Nutrition at Mount Saint Vincent University (MSVU). My passion lies in improving community health, particularly in maternal and child nutrition. My goal is to become a Registered Dietitian specializing in Community Maternal and Child Health. As I continue on my journey, I'm eager to combine my academic knowledge, practical skills, and passion for research to create lasting impact in the field of nutrition and dietetics.