I’m a cell and developmental biologist fascinated by how plants survive, reproduce and adapt to diverse, challenging environments. My career path has been somewhat unusual, as I worked and studied in academic, private sector and government research settings. After completing my doctorate at the University of British Columbia in 2014, I transitioned into an industry-based postdoctoral position in cannabis biotechnology with Anandia Laboratories Inc. In 2016, I joined the National Research Council of Canada in Saskatoon as a research associate, then research officer (PI), where my research focused on the genetic regulation of embryogenesis and seed development in staple food crops. I’m elated to be starting my next career adventure (began January, 2025) as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Saskatchewan. I am an active advocate for women and minorities in STEM and enjoys speaking with students and early career scientists about the career paths available to those interested in research. I am also happily married to a stellar guy I met in graduate school, am the proud mother of three awesome humans, and am an avid gardener.
Hi, my name is Yijing Cai, and I’m a master’s student studying wheat breeding. My current research focuses on wheat quality, like how dough behaves and what makes good bread and cookies. In Teagen’s lab, I hope to learn more about the genetic regulation of seed development and explore advanced techniques in this field. Plus, I can’t wait to experience a different kind of life in Canada-snowy Saskatoon, here I come!
I am a hard-working third-year honours student majoring in Biology and focusing on plants because plants are awesome. I am hoping to continue my studies under Dr. Quilichini upon graduating and hope to attain a PhD in the future. I am most interested in plants on a small scale, including their physiology, development and biochemistry/hormones. My focus in this lab is on the pollen wall, specifically sporopollenin, an amazingly complex biopolymer that, despite the efforts of many scientists over the past 50+ years, has still not been fully understood. I hope to contribute to this knowledge. Outside of school, my interests/hobbies include exercising, watching sports and only the finest of TV shows, and listening to podcasts/audiobooks. (sheesh what a list LOL). Before enrolling in university, I lived a mundane life in the service industry, flipping burgers and mashing potatoes. Although I did live in two wonderful cities, Tokyo and Taipei, in my younger years, it turns out my true calling was my hometown university in a laboratory.
Sayantan will be a doctoral student, co-supervised by Drs. Chris Ambrose and Teagen Quilichini. We look forward to welcoming him to the Department of Biology in May, 2025!
Hello! My name is Doreen Patel, and I am in my 3rd year of B.Sc. Honours in Biology, and I am also pursuing a certificate in Biological Research. In this lab, using a reverse genetic approach I will try to evaluate potential gene candidates which might be required in the sporopollenin formation using Arabidopsis thaliana T-DNA mutants. Outside the lab, I enjoy engaging in outdoor activities and seeking new challenges, which helps me maintain a balance between focused research and personal growth.
