911³Ô¹Ï

Chemistry doctoral student in the Faculty of Science

Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field

I am currently a research assistant in Dr. Britton’s organic chemistry lab, and I will begin my PhD in the Britton lab in September! I recently graduated from UBC Okanagan with an honours degree in biochemistry and molecular biology, where I had the opportunity to conduct research in the fields of enzymology with Dr. Kirsten Wolthers, and organic chemistry with Dr. Frederic Menard. I have always been fascinated by how living organisms function at the biochemical level, and I am continuing to pursue organic synthesis so that I can use chemistry to create tools or drugs to solve biological problems, such as cancer. When I’m not in the lab, you’ll most likely find me outdoors, hiking, snowboarding, or playing ultimate frisbee.

Why did you choose to come to 911³Ô¹Ï?

I chose to come to 911³Ô¹Ï because I was interested in the research being done in Dr. Britton’s lab, specifically the total synthesis of complex natural products with anti-cancer properties. My decision was solidified when I visited the lab and found that the members were friendly, outgoing, and made the lab a welcoming environment.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

Many years ago, a tiny amount of the natural product eleutherobin was isolated from a soft coral, and after initial biological testing, it was found to have potent anti-cancer properties! However, to study this compounds’ activity in greater detail, we need more of it. So far, two synthetic routes have been developed, but they require a high number of steps and result in low overall yields. The Britton Research Group has spent several years focused on identifying a robust, higher-yielding synthetic route to eleutherobin that would support advanced preclinical studies and the synthesis of eleutherobin analogues that may have improved biological properties. Synthesizing analogues is where I will pick up the project in September!

What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?

Eleutherobin, anti-cancer, total synthesis

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

TA-ships, RA-ships and my honours thesis project all helped me grow as a person and as an amateur chemist. TA-ships have been pivotal in developing teaching and communication skills, and RA-ships and undergraduate research projects helped me develop a wide variety of lab skills from biochemistry assays to chemical reactions. These hard and soft skills will be essential to succeed in grad school, so I am thankful for the many opportunities I’ve had to learn them.

What have been the most valuable lessons you've learned along your graduate student journey (or in becoming a graduate student)?

The most valuable lesson that I’ve learned from research is the importance of resilience. Experiments won’t always behave as you expect, so it’s important not to be too discouraged by results, and to view failed experiments as learning opportunities.

What are some tips for balancing your academic and personal life?

Personally, I like to have hobbies outside of my academic life. I find that this gives me energy to keep going and prevents burnout. I’ve found that I’m at my best in all areas of life when my hobbies get me outdoors, active and/or creative!

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Contact Megan:megan_schroeder@sfu.ca

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