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March 2, 2009

With a passion for research, Shifawn O’Hara, fourth-year biochemistry and biotechnology student, speaks highly of the experiences she gained during her recent co-op experience working on a leading research project.  This week, O’Hara was presented with the co-op student of the year award for her outstanding contribution during her co-op work term.

During her co-op term as a biology laboratory research assistant at Health Canada, O’Hara studied the effects of alpha particle radiation emitted from radon gas on human lung cells. “Case studies on radon gas exposure have defined a strong correlation of exposure to radon gas with the incidence of lung cancer,” notes O’Hara. “However, there are few biological studies supporting these epidemiological studies.”

Dr. Vinita Chauhan, a research scientist who nominated O’Hara, emphasizes the importance of the student’s work. “The results of her research have led to some very interesting findings which will result in manuscripts published in well reputed journals.” Dr. Chauhan also explains that “[Shifawn] played a very active and pivotal role in defining the biological effects of alpha particles.”

“As a co-op student, I found the supervisors wanted to help me gain as much experience as possible and they were dedicated to my placement,” says O’Hara.  Prior to her placement at Health Canada, she spent four months working in Dr. John Vierula’s lab at �Ӱ�ԭ�� University investigating bacterial and fungal genetics. 

She also credits her co-op placements for helping her make future career decisions.  “Not only did my time in the lab provide additional background for what I was learning in my classes, but I realized how much I enjoy doing research.”

This summer, O’Hara will work at the National Research Council, an opportunity she obtained at a co-op networking event.  O’Hara will assist on a research project to solve problems caused by the potentially deadly bacteria Clostridium difficile,  The long-term goal is to develop colorimetric assay to quickly identify the bacteria’s presence and prevent future outbreaks. 

After completing her placement at Health Canada, O’Hara now plans to complete her PhD as she is aware of the opportunities available in the federal government with this level of education and she would like to one day have her own lab.   

In addition to completing two work terms, O’Hara also sits on the student advisory council and the employer advisory council to provide input regarding any issues and changes to the co-op program.