Faculty of Science 2022-2023

FACULTY OF SCIENCE 2022 -

Heather Kelly, BSc 2022

Governor General’s Silver Medal

Student Excellence Awards 2022-2023

Manjot Benning

Outstanding Student Leadership Award 2023

Research Teams Spotlight

Career altering and life changing experiences

London International Youth Science Forum

Career altering and life changing experiences

UFV Science Student Clubs & Associations

Outreach & Student Opportunities

Faculty of Science Programs

Faculty Excellence Awards 2022-2023

Is it safe to eat food grown after B.C. fields flooded? Article courtesy of the Vancouver Sun Science Departments and Faculty Faculty of Science

Mission statement

Our mission is to develop critical thinking, scientific literacy, technological and quantitative proficiency, analytical abilities, communication skills, and a commitment to global responsibility among an increasingly diverse profile of lifelong learners from the Fraser Valley, Canada, and the world. We will do this through high levels of engagement among faculty and students, continued community outreach and excellence in teaching, research, and practical skills training in science.

Vision statement

The Faculty of Science at UFV:

• cultivates scientifically, technologically and quantitatively literate learners with sharp analytical and critical thinking abilities, who can contribute positively to society and the workplace,

• provides an environment in which students and faculty identify, understand and work to meet pressing environmental, health, and technological challenges,

• is committed to experiential learning and community outreach, and multi-modal educational delivery, be it in the classroom, laboratory, field, online, or through independent research.

Message from Dean Lucy Lee

As I wrap up my tenure as Dean of the Faculty of Science (FoS) at UFV, I am filled with mixed emotions pondering about the traversed journey, and bidding farewell after 11 years in this remarkable institution. I am proud of what our faculty, staff and students have achieved, the resilience demonstrated in the face of adversity, and the commitment to create a ‘House of Transformation’ encouraging intellectual curiosity, innovation, and collaboration. I wish to express my gratitude to every member of this community for making my tenure as Dean an unforgettable experience.

I thank the faculty for their dedication to teaching, and the advancement of scholarly knowledge. You have inspired countless students and contributed to advancing scientific literacy, promoting evidence-based decision-making, and fostering a greater understanding of the world we inhabit.

To the staff, I am grateful for their behind the scenes work that has kept the FoS running smoothly. You have enabled the students and faculty to thrive, ensuring that everyone feels welcomed and valued. I especially want to thank the staff in the Dean’s office, Janice and Caroline, who have been a dynamic duo supporting me in every aspect and making my job so much easier to manage.

I am also grateful to the students whose enthusiasm and thirst for learning drives this faculty and fills us with pride and joy. Their excitement and eagerness to learn have invigorated our classrooms and laboratories, inspiring us all to reach new heights of academic excellence. My own research students, past and present, have been a source of inspiration and I thank you for your independence, commitment, and interest in discovery.

I came to UFV as the Dean of FoS in 2012, just four years after it had been granted its full university status. Fast forward two terms as Dean, and now we celebrate 15 years as a University. Next year, the institution that started as a Community College will be celebrating 50 years of existence! Many changes have occurred, mostly for the best, and I am sure many more will come with twists and turns and many more ups and downs,

but we are headed on an upward growth, shaping and influencing the entire Fraser Valley community from Abbotsford to Mission, Chilliwack and Hope, and beyond!

FoS now has 6 departments: Agriculture Technology, Biology, Chemistry, Geoscience, Planning Geography & Environmental Studies, and Mathematics & Statistics. We have seen major growth in student enrolments, even through the pandemic years, and many changes in personnel have occurred. This year we welcome a whopping 7 new tenure-track members (2 in Math & Stats, 5 in Biology), as well as a new Dean: Dr. Michael Hitch who will start Sept 1, 2023. I am content to know that I am leaving the Faculty in excellent hands, and that FoS is on track to reach new heights.

This 3rd issue of the Science Magazine celebrates the achievements of our members, including our students and alumni, who are the impetus behind the success of our Faculty. Within these pages you will discover the dedication, hard work, and collaboration of our talented community in the pursuit of knowledge, the wonders of discovery, and the joys of learning. This issue encapsulates the essence of what our Faculty stands for in advancing the boundaries of scientific knowledge, exploring new frontiers, and understanding the natural world and the changing environments. Thank you for your continued support, and I hope you enjoy this issue. Wishing you all an enriching and enlightening read!

One final note: Thank you Caroline for bringing this issue to fruition in between juggling so many other demands. Your dedication to producing a magazine that showcases the best of our faculty’s endeavors is highly commendable. I bid farewell but know that I will follow you from a different vantage point.

HEATHER KELLY

UFV BSc Graduate 2022

Governor General’s Silver Medal Recipient

~ Article written by Gerald Narciso, UFV Today, June 14, 2022

Trying to catch Heather Kelly can be a bit tricky. It seems the UFV Biology standout student and soon-to-be graduate is always on the go, spreading her knowledge and passion for scientific research with the world.

Immediately after she was able to squeeze in an interview in early June, she was off to the UFV Undergraduate Research Excellence Awards, where she gave an inspiring speech on behalf of all students being honoured that

Kelly was recognized for a $6,000 Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) award to fund her fall research and $1,000 research excellence award for biology. The next day, she flew out to San Diego to attend a conference to present the inventive fish cell line research she has been helping work on for the past three years.

And when she is not speaking at conferences or excelling in the classroom (she maintained a near perfect 4.32 GPA), she is busy with her multiple extracurricular hobbies. There’s the Biology and Chemistry Student Association where she is the academic vice president; the Student Leisure Outdoor and Wilderness Club where she is president and organized hikes regularly; and the Big Brothers and Big Sisters of the Fraser Valley where she is a mentor to a teenage girl.

Even Kelly doesn’t know where she finds the time.

“I don’t know! I find that I actually don’t have too much free time,” Kelly says with a laugh. “But I still make sure to do the things that I enjoy or that motivate me, whether that is volunteering, conducting research, or spending time outdoors with friends and family.”

Kelly’s motivation to strive for greatness academically started at a young age. Although nobody in her family was focused on science in their studies or career, she was always competitive with her older brother when it came to achieving top grades. Her interest in the sciences stemmed from her time spent outdoors exploring nature.

It was in high school where Kelly discovered her talent and interest in the sciences, winning the Governor General’s Bronze Medal at Westview Secondary School in Maple Ridge.

Four years later, as Kelly is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in biology, she earned another Governor General’s award, this time a silver medal at UFV, awarded to the top graduate in a bachelor’s degree program.

“I was so excited,” Kelly says. “It was just so amazing to get the news and find out that UFV had recognized my work.”

Kelly entered UFV in the fall of 2018 under the prestigious President’s Entrance Scholarship. After her first year taking chemistry, calculus and biology courses, she responded to a Twitter ad seeking a volunteer in Dr. Lucy Lee’s research lab. That opportunity turned into a three-year intensive research experience, where the group studied lipid nanoparticles in fish and their effectiveness in combating viruses in aquaculture under the guidance of Dr. Justin Lee.

“We started investigating their use in fish before the pandemic had even started, and we are seeing the potential,” says Kelly. “Now, they’ve become so popular because of their use in the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines.”

Like many graduates this year, the pandemic altered almost half of Kelly’s time at UFV. Although there were challenges associated with remote learning at times, Kelly says the correlation between the coronavirus and the fish cell line research in Dr. Lee’s lab was an invaluable experience that will further the advancements of medicine.

Kelly also believes staying close to home and attending UFV was the ideal academic learning environment for her. The smaller class sizes and personal attention, she says, were instrumental in her development. She is very appreciative of the support she has received throughout her education from friends, family, and UFV faculty. Kelly knows that her support system was an integral part of her success.

“I had such a close kind of connection with my professors, that I felt I could go to any of them for advice, and I did,” Kelly says. “It really allows you to do so well in your schooling, and I don’t think I would have had any of the same opportunities if I had gone anywhere else.”

After graduation, Kelly will continue her research in Dr. Lee’s lab as part of the NSERC funding. She will continue presenting about the innovation uncovered in the lab. Although she is currently passionate about the potential for curing people through scientific research, Kelly envisions a future helping heal people in her community faceto face.

“My end goal is actually to go to medical school,” she says. “I hope to become a family doctor in the future.”

“I want to use the knowledge I’ve gained from my science background to help those around me.”

KATRIANA VAN WOUDENBERG

Bachelor of Science Graduate 2022 Dean of Science Medal of Excellence Recipient

Katriana Van Woudenberg, received the Faculty of Science Dean’s Medal of Excellence for 2022. She exceeded the criteria with a 4.3 GPA out of a possible 4.33! Along with her outstanding academic work and numerous extracurricular activities, Katriana did a year long research project under the supervision of Dr. Justin Lee and Dr. Lucy Lee, Dean as co-supervisor.

Katriana was accepted to the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon and continues her studies there.

Dr. Lucy Lee, Dean of Science and Katriana Van Woudenberg, Science Dean’s Medal Recipient 2022

STUDENT RESEARCHERS RECOGNIZED AT UFV AWARDS NIGHT

More than 40 student researchers from across the university were honoured at the 2022 Undergraduate Research Excellence Awards event held on May 31, 2022.

Heather Kelly (Biology - Research Supervisor: Dr. Justin Lee), Ryan Goldbach (Biology - Research Supervisor: Dr. Lucy Lee), Connor Frey (Chemistry - Research Supervisor: Dr. Golfam Ghafourifar), Rachel Sailer (ChemistryResearch Supervisor: Dr. Linus Chiang), and Vanessa Brewer (Geography - Research Supervisor: Dr. Olav Lian) were recipients of an NSERC Undergraduate Research Award valued at $6,000.

Student Presentation Grants were awarded to the following science students: President’s Award - Heather Kelly, Biology; Provost & Vice-President Academic Award - Curtis Plug, Chemistry; Associate VP Research, Engagement & Graduate Studies Award - Jennifer Heldt, Environmental Studies, and the Faculty of Science Dean’s Award - Daylan Pritchard, Biology. Each award recipient received a $200 prize.

Faculty Research Supervisors; Dr. Justin Lee, Biology and Dr. Lucy Lee, Dean of Science (pictured far right) and their research students, Daylan Pritchard, Katriana Van Woudenberg, Ryan Goldbach, and Heather Kelly.

PAULA ERASO

Bachelor of Agricultural Science Graduate 2023 Dean of Science Medal of Excellence Recipient

Paula Eraso, was awarded the Faculty of Science Dean’s Medal of Excellence. Dr. Ian Affleck, Associate Dean of Science presented her with her medal.

To be eligible for this award, the student must graduate from a degree program and have attained a minimum grade point average of 3.75 on courses required for the degree. Paula exceeded the criteria with a 4.09 GPA! She not only excelled academically but she has participated in opportunities that indicate outstanding promise for a career in the agriculture field. She graduates with a Bachelor of Agriculture Science degree.

We wish her all the best on her next chapter.

Dr. Ian Affleck, Associate Dean of Science and Paula Eraso, Science Dean’s Medal Recipient 2023

SYDNEY PLANTE

Bachelor of Science Graduate (Physics Major) 2023 Student Speaker

Sydney Plante, who earned a Bachelor of Science with a physics major, addressed the graduating class of 2023. She spoke of the crisis-filled years during which the Class of 2023 attended university.

“Our graduating class is resilient. The world has shifted and changed since we started here. We’ve had pandemics, floods, global political movements, heat domes, and wars. Nothing could have prepared us for all that. But despite the bumps and obstacles, here we are.”

“The grad class of 2023 is writing history,” she continued. “One day when our grandkids learn about the 2020s, they’ll ask us how we did it. How did we keep up the motivation, the focus? How did we preserve our dreams when the whole world was falling apart? The answer to that question? Simple. We rose to the challenge. No matter what was thrown at us, we didn’t back down.”

Sydney has her sights set on pursing grad school, and one day teach at a university, but for now she will be back at UFV in the fall teaching 100-level physics labs.

Outstanding Student Leadership Award

Manjot Benning leads by example with compassion

~ Article written by Anne Russell, UFV Today - May 29, 2023

A student would have to be really outstanding to be the first-ever winner of the UFV Alumni Association’s Outstanding Student Leader award.

Manjot Benning fits the bill, and then some!

She’s graduating this June with top marks in her Bachelor of Science degree program, with sights set on medical school applications in the future. She’s a straight-A biology major with a near-perfect 4.15 GPA and has been on the UFV Science Dean’s list since December 2019.

But it’s for her activity outside the classroom that the Alumni Association is choosing to honour her with its inaugural award.

Manjot is such a deeply involved UFV student that it’s hard to find an activity or organization related to her studies that she is not involved with and excelling at.

She is vice-president of the UFV Women in Science and Technology club, sits on the Senate budget committee, and has served as a UFV Lead student mentor, and a wellness peer leader.

She has also worked in paid positions that help UFV students and the next generation. She’s been a Supported Learning Group leader (supporting first-year students in introductory calculus courses) and a Science Rocks summer day camp leader.

Manjot is also engaged in research at the undergraduate level, working as a research assistant on the UFV Proteomics team.

She also volunteers in the community, serving as a community policing volunteer with the Abbotsford Police Department, a surgical daycare volunteer at the Abbotsford Regional Hospital, a volunteer with children at the Canuck Place Children’s Hospice, and as an in-school mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Dr. Stefania Pizzirani, an assistant professor in UFV’s School of Land Use and Environmental Change, nominated Manjot for the inaugural Outstanding Student Leadership award.

“Manjot is clearly an exceptional individual,” noted Pizzirani. “She consistently exemplifies the qualities of determination, inclusivity, collaboration, mentorship, leadership, and genuine enthusiasm for learning. I have seen few students as passionate about community (both within and outside of UFV) as Manjot. She is truly an inspiration to me and to the wider student body as well. She is extremely hard working and leads all her actions

with a good heart and meaningful intentions.”

Amy Carrick, the volunteer coordinator at Canuck Place children’s hospice, also wrote in support of Manjot’s nomination for the Outstanding Student Leadership award.

“Manjot has demonstrated distinct leadership through her volunteerism at Canuck Place Children’s Hospice,” noted Carrick. “Manjot is someone who is willing to step in wherever needed and demonstrates a high level of care towards all levels of stakeholders at Canuck Place. We are truly grateful to have her as a volunteer and I cannot recommend Manjot highly enough for this award!”

Manjot is thrilled to be receiving the Outstanding Student Leadership award, because it recognizes her efforts to help others, particularly fellow students.

“When you’re a first-year student the transition is huge, and challenging. You don’t really know what resources are out there,” she says. “Through my volunteer activities, I try to connect students to the many resources that UFV offers to support students. There is a lot of help available that the first-year student is just not aware of, but that can help them succeed and connect with other students. I’m the first generation in my family to go on to post-secondary so I’ve had to figure out a lot of things on my own. I just want to make it easier for other students.”

“I help point them in the direction of educational advisors who can help them choose what classes to take, places where they can get help academically through programs like Supported Learning Groups, and other wellness resources. Even if I don’t have the answer, I can help them connect with others who can better assist them.”

Her volunteer work also allows her to branch out of the science-focused academic side of her UFV experience.

How does she fit it all in?

“I’ve become really good at time management. I’ve always been very passionate about volunteering. A big part of me wants to be out there helping. I build in time to my schedule to make sure I can go out and connect with people who need help,” she says, fresh off a Friday shift at Abbotsford’s Canuck Place Children’s Hospice.

“I’m so grateful for all the opportunities that I have had at UFV,” she notes. “My advice for new students is to get involved. Attend events. Sign up for clubs. You might discover something that you’re passionate about that you didn’t even know existed before. And reaching out gives you the opportunity to network with other people who can help you and connect you to different opportunities.”

RESEARCH TEAMS SPOTLIGHT

The Chiang Research Group

We are an undergraduate-only research group at the University of the Fraser Valley. We focus on studying inorganic catalysts that are biologically inspried for small molecule activation!

Dr. Linus Chiang, Chemistry Associate Professor leads the research team of highly motivated undergraduate students focusing on the design, sythesis, characterization, and evaluation of biologically-inspired catalysts.

https://chianglabadventures.weebly.com/

The Ghafourifar Lab

We are an interdisciplinary research group at the University of the Fraser Valley developing immobilized enzyme microreactor for proteomic studies. We use different enzymes and crosslinkers to digest various proteins. we strongly believe that a diverse team produces the strongest research and having lab members from varied backgrounds strengthens the group’s output.

We welcome diversity of all types, including various ethnic, gender, disciplinary and academic , so that we will learn from each other how to always be looking in new directions. We also welcome young scientists from groups that are underrepresented in chemistry.

http://www.golfamlab.com/

Avery LeComte, Payton Fortuna, Stephanie Deliva, Sirjan Singh, LInus Chiang (Missing: Jas Chauhan, Megan Mulder, and Matthew den Hertog) - August 2023

Rajan Deol, Dario Jereb, Harmanpreet Kaur, Golfam Ghafourifar, Maor Arad, Zach Nestman, Manjot Benning, Ronald Balagtas Canadian Chemistry Conference 2023

LONDON INTERNATIONAL YOUTH SCIENCE FORUM

The London International Youth Science Forum (LIYSF) is a two-week residential student event held annually in central London which attracts 500 of the world’s leading young scientists aged 16-21 years old from more than 70 participating countries. LIYSF is held at Imperial College London and The Royal Geographical Society – with day visits out to world-class laboratories and Universities, including Oxford and Cambridge Universities.

For two weeks at LIYSF, participants live together as an international community to exchange their ideas and experiences of the world. Read the testimonials from our past representatives: https://ufv.ca/science/student-opportunities-information-andnews/london-international-youth-science-forum/

Representatives can choose to extend their stay and discover the excitement of fundamental research at CERN in Geneva.

The Faculty of Science has been sending a UFV ambassador to LIYSF since 2012 all expenses paid. We look for a student enrolled in a science program at UFV, who is academically outstanding and has great leadership and communication skills. Candidates are shortlisted and required to present on a research topic of choice. The successful candidate will head to LIYSF for the summer all expenses paid! (Note: The cost of the CERN Programme is not included).

Each of our ambassadors have journaled their experience on our Science Blog: https://blogs.ufv.ca/science/category/ trips/science-in-london/

Isabelle St-Martin 2019 University of Oxford

Nikola Trotzuk & Friends 2018 Stonehenge

Manjot Benning & Catherine Laflamme 2023 Proudly representing UFV and Canada

SCIENCE STUDENT CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS

Clubs and assocations are a great way to meet new people, enhance your resume and help make a more vibrant campus! Getting involved in activities outside the classroom is an important part of your university journey. Student led clubs and associations offer you the opportunity to learn new skills, explore your interests, enhance your leadership and connect with others on your campus and in your community.

Make your university story one worth telling by getting involved in one of the many student run organizations!

We are very lucky to have so many active science clubs and associations!

Agriculture Student Association (ASA)

We represent the students from the Agriculture Technology department. ufv.agstudents@gmail.com

Astronomy and Aerospace Club (AAC)

We are an active and enthusiastic student club who plan space-related events and activities. We like to keep up the excitement and are always welcoming new members to take part! Simply put, we love getting together to explore what we love - astronomy and aerospace. ufv.astronomy@gmail.com

Biology and Chemistry Student Association (BCSA)

We assist students studying the scientific subjects of Biology and Chemistry and provide a venue through which they can make connections within these faculties, and to encourage them to participate in campus community events. bcsa.ufv@gmail.com

Computing Student Association (CSA)

We are the association that represents both Computer Information System students and Computing Science students. We offer opportunities to participate in events on campus and online that are advertised mostly in D building. csa.ufv@gmail.com

Health and Medicine Club (HMC)

We are a club for students who are passionate about health and medicine. Our main goal is to promote healthy, active, and safe lifestyles for all students on campus. ufvhmc@gmail.com

Physics Student Association (PSA)

We represent the Physics and Engineering students. We exist to serve the students of UFV by augmenting the existing instruction provided through presentations, tours, and social events. ufv.physics@gmail.com

Pre-Med Student Assocation (PMSA)

We are a student-led group with the goal of informing, educating, and connecting students with medical information and opportunities. We seek to aid our members through both the undergraduate experience and in preparation for a future in medicine. pmsa.ufv@gmail.com

School of Land Use and Environmental Change Student Association (SLUECSA)

We represent the students from the School of Land Use and Environmental Change, with the purpose of allowing members to form lasting connections between faculty, the community, and fellow students. These connections will be achieved through activities and events which introduce members to broad opportunities, both present and future, that extend beyond the classroom. sluecsa@ufv.ca

UFV Pre-Dental Association

We are a student-run association focused on guiding, mentoring, and preparing the future dentists of UFV. The organization’s mission is to equip its members with the knowledge and skills needed to become competitive applicants for dental school. ufvpredentalassociation@gmail.com

UFV Wildlife Protection Club

Our goal is to raise awareness of smaller local species issues and teach people the importance of conservation. We pursue this goal via outreach events, blanket/towel drives for local wildlife rehabilitation centers, fundraisers for Fraser Valley Conservancy, and by hosting our own volunteer events. We are always accepting new members who are passionate about the well-being of our local ecosystem! ufvwildlifeprotectionclub@gmail.com

Women in Engineering, Science and Technology (UFV WEST)

We are focused on the support and promotion of female-identifying and femme-aligning individuals in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). All are welcome. Our mission is to empower marginalized genders in STEM. WEST is a feminist organization that is working toward creating a better future for all - one of empowerment and opportunity that fights against systems of oppression and supports emerging leaders to shape the future.

ufvwest@gmail.com

Faculty of Science

OUTREACH & STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Children of today are the scientists of tomorrow. To foster a love of learning and science in the next generation, the Faculty of Science supports fun and engaging science programming, targeted at elementary, middle school and high school students.

The following outreach events create opportunities for our undergrad students to gain valuable experience by volunteering their time or even getting paid to work while studying. These professional employment opportunities help students gain experience and build skills to include on their resume.

BC Secondary Schools Math Contest: The BC Secondary schools math contest provides interested students (and their teachers) with a chance to have fun and stretch themselves mathematically. The contest is designed to get as many students as possible involved in doing and enjoying mathematics.

Fraser Valley Regional Science Fair: Students in the Fraser Valley from K-12 are given the opportunity to display their outstanding projects to the public through the Regional Science Fair held each year in April or May at UFV.

Let’s Talk Science: We connect educators and youth with outstanding volunteers to deliver a wide variety of meaningful science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) learning experiences in both school and community settings.

Math Challengers BC: An inter-school math competition in which students in grades 8 and 9 compete in teams of four or five. Regional competitions are held across BC each year in February, with the top teams from each regional tournament moving on to compete at the annual Provincial competition in March or April.

Math Mania: Math Mania is an evening of mathematical demonstrations, puzzles, and hands-on activities for elementary or middle school children. It’s been designed by members of the University of the Fraser Valley’s Department of Mathematics & Statistics to show children – and their parents – how much fun you can have playing with mathematical concepts.

Science Rocks!: The Faculty of Science offers Science Rocks! Summer camps every year in July and August. Designed especially for young people going into Grades 4, 5, 6, and 7. These camps are great fun and an awesome learning opportunity for campers.

Super Science Club: Super Science Club is a partnership between the UFV Faculty of Science and Telus World of Science. Every fall and winter semester UFV science students are trained by Science World to deliver fun and informative afterschool science activities to children in the Fraser Valley.

PROGRAMS Faculty of Science

Bachelor of Agriculture Science, Horticulture major

UFV’s four-year Bachelor of Agricultural Science with a Horticulture major helps you develop the perfect mix of technical, communication, and business skills to prepare you to play a leading role in the Fraser Valley’s agricultural sector. https://www.ufv.ca/agriculture/programs/agricultural-science/

Bachelor of Environmental Studies

UFV’s four-year Bachelor of Environmental Studies (BES) program provides you with the skills to shape business, industry, and government practices using economically and environmentally-sound principles.

https://www.ufv.ca/land-and-environment/programs/environmental-studies-bes/

Bachelor of Environmental Studies - Natural Sciences

UFV’s four-year Bachelor of Environmental Studies (BES) (Natural Sciences) program prepares you to work in the dynamic field of environmental science and to help organizations and communities reach their sustainability goals. https://www.ufv.ca/land-and-environment/programs/bes-natural-sciences/

Bachelor of Regional and Community Planning

We are excited to announce that the Bachelor of Regional and Comminity Planning will joining our list of programs Fall 2023. Students will acquire the skills and knowledge needed to enter the globally recognized profession of regional and city planning in all levels of government including municipal, Indigenous, regional workspaces, project development, resource and food system management, private industry, and non-profit initiatives.

Bachelor of Science - Biology

Gain an excellent grounding in modern biology and obtain the working skills of a professional biologist with a UFV Bachelor of Science in Biology. In your first and second year, you gain a foundational understanding of cell biology, biochemistry, and ecology/organism interactions. In your third and fourth year, you expand your knowledge through a wide range of upper-level courses. https://www.ufv.ca/biology/

Bachelor of Science - Chemistry

The Bachelor of Science in Chemistry is intended to equip you with principles of the study of matter and the physical world, and to enable you to apply that knowledge to real-world situations. As part of the program, you explore organic and inorganic chemistry, as well as physical and analytical chemistry, and how they are used to solve problems and create new opportunities. You also gain valuable laboratory and research skills, including spectrometry and chromatography. As you ask questions and seek solutions, you sharpen your critical-thinking skills, and learn to communicate your findings with others. https://www.ufv.ca/chemistry/

Bachelor of Science - Computing Science

In UFV’s computing science program, you’ll learn how to use advanced math and algorithms to solve real-world problems. You’ll gain a strong foundation in database management, data analysis, programming, and software design. You will also dig into key topics such as privacy, security, hacking, ethics, big data processing, and machine learning.

https://www.ufv.ca/computing/programs/bachelor-computing-science/

Bachelor of Science - Mathematics

The Bachelor of Science in Mathematics builds your understanding of mathematical concepts and enables you to enter innovative industries and solve satisfying challenges. https://www.ufv.ca/math/programs/major-extendedminor/

Bachelor of Science - Physical Geography

UFV’s Bachelor of Science in Physical Geography provides you with a strong background in natural sciences, a comprehensive understanding of factors affecting the environment, and hands-on expertise in gathering, analyzing, and evaluating data. https://www.ufv.ca/land-and-environment/programs/physical-geography-bsc/

Bachelor of Science - Physics

In this program, you learn early on about fundamental topics like electromagnetism, wave physics, thermodynamics, and relativity. Upper level courses then give you the opportunity to discuss advanced topics like quantum theory and fluid mechanics, applying principles of mathematics to the material world around you. https://www.ufv.ca/ physics/

Associate of Science

Gain an excellent grounding in modern scientific methods of conducting lab work and research. The Associate of Science degree at UFV is a four-semester program that allows you to take the science courses that interest you. https://www.ufv.ca/science/programs/associate-of-science/

Annual Science Social

Each year the Faculty of Science hosts a Science Social to welcome all new and returning science students. 2023 will mark our 16th year!

This is a great opportunity for students to connect with the UFV STEM Clubs and Associations, while visiting with science faculty and fellow classmates. There is always lot of food, music and prizes!

We welcomed 80+ students, faculty and staff to last year’s event which was held on the K-Building patio. We were thrilled to see everyone back in person enjoying pizza, pop and prizes while connecting with the STEM clubs enjoying some music and playing jenga and chess. Our emcee for the evening was our Associate Dean, Dr. Ian Affleck. UFV President, Dr. Joanne MacLean and UFV Provost Dr. James Mandigo even stopped by for a visit. Aaron Levy from CIVL Radio brought back his beats and supplied the music for the evening!

We can’t think of a better way to kick start your semester!

Be sure to watch for advertisements for our 2023 Science Social in early September!

Hope to see you all then!

Faculty of Science Awesome Achievement Awards (AAA Awards) 2022

Each year the Dean of Science, in consultation with the Faculty of Science Department Heads, recognizes outstanding faculty and staff.

Awesome Achievement

Overall excellence in academic endeavours

Dr. Sandra Gillespie Biology

Terrific Teaching

Dr. Mariano Mapili

Planning, Geography, and Environmental Studies

Instructional excellence in present and over the past 3 years

Steve Marsh

Geoscience

Remarkable Research

Excellence in scientific research endeavours

Dr. Justin Lee Biology

Superb Service

Outstanding Outreach

Excellence in community outreach events

Dr. Vanessa Radzimski Mathematics & Statistics

Superb performance of service duties

Faculty:

Dr. Renee Prasad

Agriculture Technolgy

Staff: Shawn Millar Chemistry

Faculty of Science Awesome Achievement Awards (AAA Awards) 2023

Each year the Dean of Science, in consultation with the Faculty of Science Department Heads, recognizes outstanding faculty and staff.

Awesome Achievement

Overall excellence in academic endeavours

Dr. Greg Schmaltz Biology

Terrific Teaching

Instructional excellence in present and over the past 3 years

Vanessa Radzimski

Mathematics & Statistics

Remarkable Research

Excellence in scientific research endeavours

Dr. Jake Spooner Chemistry

Superb Service

Outstanding Outreach Excellence in community outreach events

Dr. Carin Bondar Biology

Superb performance of service duties

Faculty:

Dr. Pedro Montoya-Pelaez

Chemistry

Staff:

Michelle Morier Agriculture Technology

DR. JAMES BEDARD

UFV Research Excellence 2022 Award Winner

Research Excellence 2022: UFV the perfect fit for professor seeking balance between teaching and research

~ Article written by Anne Russell, UFV Today, May 15, 2022

For Dr. James Bedard, the 2022 winner of the Research Excellence award at UFV, a faculty posting in the biology department turned out to be the perfect fit.

His mentor during his undergraduate and graduate years studying microbiology in Manitoba had told him that he’d make a good teaching-focused professor with a minor focus on research.

But he went the big research route first, doing post-doc fellowships at the Genome Research Institute in Ohio and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, focusing on molecular genetics.

Bedard got tired of focusing only on research. He wanted to teach as well. Teaching one course part-time confirmed this. Then he took a job at a teaching-focused university in Colorado. Eventually, he felt the pull to return to his home country of Canada and went looking for an academic institution with a mix of teaching and research, and with mountains and wilderness opportunities nearby. UFV fit the bill!

And now 10 years since joining UFV, he’s well established as a researcher who also teaches and mentors student researchers.

He brought his interest in genomics with him, along with his connection to the Genomics Education Partnership, which provides him with resources to train students in research on model organism genomes such as the fruit-fly (Drosophila).

“We work with fruit flies. We basically extract all the DNA from the flies and examine the sequences of that DNA. So we look at genes, which make proteins. We look at and compare species and look how these genomes have evolved. Once my students have learned how to do genome annotation, you can apply to any organism with the tools they’ve learned. You don’t have to be excited about fruit flies. You just have to be interested in working with DNA.

“Our students are the researchers, and we send the data back to the Genome Education Partnership and it is original research. What they’re doing is novel. No one else has done it before. The students are the key scientists in this work, contributing to the body of science knowledge that this GEP project worldwide is doing.”

UFV Dean of Science Lucy Lee praises Bedard for finding a way to educate students in genomics research on a small budget with minimal infrastructure.

“By studying and comparing the genomes of the Drosophila species under Dr. Bedard’s supervision, our students learn how to interpret unique genomic data. They can then apply that knowledge to human-related issues, be it contributing to studies in human cancer, specific diseases, or genetic counselling. This is a task that could help unravel many mysteries of life. Contributing to the genome annotation of more than 2,000 species of Drosophila contributes to the advancement of genomics in unique ways.”

He also does research in partnership with BC Cancer based on topics that his senior students are interested in, often focused on hereditary cancer.

“The projects might focus on genetic counselling, or certain types of cancer, such as Lynch syndrome. We basically tailor it to what the student is excited about. If students have a really creative, interesting type research project that interests them, I’m always willing to work on that.”

Lee is proud of the ways that Bedard’s work is enhancing UFV’s reputation as a research university.

“By partnering with the Genomics Education Partnership and BC Cancer, James is making a name for UFV locally and beyond.”

UFV alumna Eryn Braley, now completing a Master of Public Health degree at UBC, praises Bedard as an excellent research supervisor and mentor. In a directed studies project supervised by Bedard, she examined sociodemographic factors associated with cancer genetic testing uptake in BC/Yukon through population-based assessments to identify underserved patient populations.

“I have Dr. Bedard to thank for the exceptional research and educational opportunities I had throughout my BSc at UFV,” she notes.

As for Bedard, he’s happy that fate and circumstance brought him to UFV.

“If I could go back in time and had known about schools like UFV, I would have considered going to one for my undergraduate years. At a big university you are just sort of sucked into this vortex with big classes. And it wasn’t until I was doing bench work for a professor doing research that I got excited about it.

“One of main reasons I am so excited about UFV is that I have the opportunity to help undergraduate students work on smaller projects. And I’m happy that our research office provides or helps us find pockets of grant money to make it happen.”

DR. STEFANIA PIZZIRANI Faculty Service Excellence 2023

Stefania Pizzirani infuses service into teaching, research, and community work

~ Article written

by Anne Russell, UFV Today

- May 8, 2023

For Dr. Stefania Pizzirani, her duties as an assistant professor at UFV don’t fall into strict silos of teaching, research, and service. They all blend together.

Her teaching includes service components. Her research is often based on grassroots community needs. And her service activities feed off her teaching, her research, and her relationships with students, fellow faculty, and community members.

For the dedication she brings to her vocation Pizzirani, an assistant professor in the School of Land Use and Environmental Change who joined UFV in 2019, is this year’s recipient of the Faculty Service Excellence award.

Jennifer Martel of UFV’s Office of Sustainability, who nominated Pizzirani for the award, had a hard time narrowing down which category to nominate her for.

“Stefania embodies a service mindset in everything that she does. This is seen in her teaching and interactions with her students, and the incredible effort, dedication, and care that she puts into her research. While Stefania is worthy of all of the faculty excellence award categories, the service award seems most fitting since her service shows up in all areas,” says Martel.

“The genuine care that Stefania has for the students, their well-being, and their futures, is demonstrated through her dedication to offering students opportunities and networks beyond the classroom that they will be able to utilize upon leaving UFV.”

Pizzirani’s service mindset shines through in her research, which is mostly community focused. Through her internal and external research partnerships she extends across disciplines, applies a justice and equity lens in her environmental research, and involves local regions and communities in projects aimed at fostering sustainable resiliency.

Pizzirani has worked on several extracurricular initiatives but perhaps the best known one is the March for Sustainability, a series of environmental events held in March, now in its second year.

The series grew out of discussions between her and the Office of Sustainability, with a goal of finding ways to raise awareness of issues related to sustainability. Pizzirani had an idea for a clothing exchange and repair fair. This modest goal led to five sustainability-focused events in March 2022, and 13 in 2023.

While Pizzirani says it’s validating to receive the Faculty Service Excellence award, it’s also symbolic of the efforts of a community of passionate people.

“I discovered that I thrive when I leverage my passion for sustainable and environmental issues and combine it with a focus on wellbeing and our community,” she says. “And doing it with other people makes it even better. We are creating a really strong cohort of people who care deeply for our students and our community, and the fact that what we do matters makes it even more rewarding. Work with an Indigenous and environmental focus is never really finished. I am grateful for everybody’s work and dedication. We are all stronger together.”

Breanna Gueldner, a student worker with the Office of Sustainability, has worked as a research assistant for Pizzirani.

“Stefania is passionate about bringing ideas to communities in order to see positive change. She engages in research projects that lead to practical solutions for environmental issues. An example of this is with her sustainable fashion research. Its purpose is to find gaps in BC’s apparel industry to create a more resilient and earth-friendly clothing life cycle. Working with her on this project has been inspiring, and she has shown me how research can and should be a service to benefit the community.”

STEVE MARSH

UFV Teaching Excellence

2023 Award Winner

Steven Marsh’s love of climate studies has a trickle-down effect on students

~ Article written by Anne Russell, UFV Today - May 7, 2023

A passion for studying the elements led Steven Marsh to his life’s work as a geography professor. Now, generations of students have benefited from the knowledge and skills he shared and are on the frontlines of resource management and academic research in climate-related disciplines.

For his dedication to his profession and influence on students, Marsh is this year’s recipient of the UFV Teaching Excellence award.

As Marsh was growing up, his home in London, Ontario was struck by lightning more than a dozen times, sparking his interest in natural hazards and climatology.

He started teaching geography at UFV 31 years ago and became a full-time professor a few years later in what was then the Geography department and is now the School of Land Use and Environmental Change. He’s seen a lot of changes in students over the years.

“It used to be a challenge to get students to use online resources,” he recalls. “Now it’s a challenge to get them to set foot in the library.”

More of his students today are majoring in environmental studies than geography, a reflection of an increased societal awareness of environmental issues. Through field activities tied to his research and longer study tours, Marsh has taught hands-on research skills to hundreds of students.

Marsh’s areas of focus are watershed and airshed issues affecting local communities. He collaborates on communityfocused research projects with federal, provincial, municipal, and non-governmental organizations, involving students in most of them.

He has a long-standing collaboration with the prestigious Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and the Woods Hole Research Center (now the Woodwell Climate Research Center) to investigate river geochemistry and landocean linkages through the sampling of the Fraser River and its tributaries as part of the Global Rivers Observatory Project. This has led to research internships for several of his students, which in turn helped them qualify for graduate school. Several have returned to UFV as instructors.

Marsh loves to see the transition of his students from sitting in his classroom to performing field work with him on research projects, to landing co-op jobs or internships in the water quality field, and eventually getting careerlaunching jobs in the same field.

One of his current projects has him working with the Stó:lō Nation to sample water on three local creeks connected to the Chilliwack River to create baseline measurements for studying the impact of human-caused pollution on watersheds.

“It’s really important to get my students outside, and by teaching at UFV where class sizes are small, I’ve been able to do so,” he says. “It’s very satisfying to see my students graduate and go on to get jobs in the area of water quality, and to see them using tools that I taught them to use.”

As much as he loves teaching upper-level students about the intricacies of water quality monitoring, he also recognized early on that helping non-science students become more scientifically literate is also an important part of teaching.

He developed a geography course for arts students called Natural Hazards and Hollywood.

“We would look at how Hollywood portrayed the science behind disasters with a critical eye, and also examine how we could prepare for and respond to hazardous weather in our own lives,” he says. “This has become much more relevant in recent years with our local heat dome and flooding experiences.”

He also really enjoys the longer study tours that allow him to immerse students in a particular geographical area, such as Mount St. Helens, a volcano in Washington State that erupted in 1980.

It all comes back to the students when Marsh reflects upon his teaching career.

“This award is a real affirmation of what I have chosen as my life’s work,” he notes. “I think back to one of my favourite days, back in 2016 down at our water-monitoring site on the Fraser River in Fort Langley. I watched some of our students introduce three visitors from Papua New Guinea to the art of water sampling, taking the skills that I taught them and teaching them to others.”

Is it safe to eat food grown after B.C. fields

flooded?

Soil tests show “the integrity of the agricultural food supply production for (Sumas Prairie) remains strong”

~ Article written by Glenda Luymes, May 29, 2022 (Courtsey of the Vancouver Sun)

https://vancouversun.com/news/local-news/is-it-safe-to-eat-food-grown-after-bc-fields-flooded

Renee Prasad spends hours on her hands and knees in the dirt, looking at bugs.

As floodwater saturated the Sumas Prairie in November, the agrologist worried about the ladybugs, bees and spiders in the fields she studies, season after season. The insects, which help crops flourish by providing pollination and pest control, are integral and indicative of the health of some of Canada’s best farmland.

“I’ve been in these fields for a long time,” said Prasad, an associate professor in the agriculture technology department at the University of the Fraser Valley. “I’d notice if there was something amiss.”

PHOTO BY FRANCIS GEORGIAN /PNG

As spring returned, so did the bugs. And while the scientist hasn’t done an official count, the usual “community” of insects appears to be accounted for, she said.

Soil contamination was a big concern in the days after the November floods. Water polluted by manure, fertilizer, and fuel and oil tanks spread across the Sumas flats. Police warned kayakers to stay out of the floodwater, while rescue teams went through a decontamination process at the end of every shift.

After the water drained away, scientists from B.C.’s agriculture ministry took 24 soil samples from 21 different fields, and analyzed them for contaminants, including petroleum products, metals, pesticides, herbicides and asbestos.

The results were a relief for many.

“After reviewing the soil quality results, it was determined the sampled agriculture lands were not compromised during the flooding, and the integrity of the agricultural food supply production for this area remains strong,” said a statement provided to Postmedia last week.

Farmers continue to test their land, providing results to packers, distributors and retailers as required, said Tom

Renee Prasad Associate Professor of agriculture at University of Fraser Valley and Rachel Barth checking for soil contamination.

Baumann, an agriculture consultant specializing in blueberries. “They’re all asking for third-party evaluations.”

But so far, no soil contamination has been found, including hydrocarbons from fuel or bacteria from manure.

Baumann, the president of consulting company Expert Agriculture Team, said it is believed leaked fuel remained on top of the floodwater and either evaporated or washed away, while the cold snap that followed the flood killed bacteria.

“The frost went deep into the soil,” he said. “Nothing would survive that.”

Prasad said farmers with crops that hadn’t been harvested before the flooding were forced to plough them under, including fields of cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and leeks. Annual crops are always replanted in the spring from new seeds. Perennial crops, such as blueberries and raspberries, suffered damage to their roots, but the plants are now beginning to bloom, although fruit is still months away.

Both agrologists said they wouldn’t hesitate to eat food grown in the flood zone.

“Bottom line is I’m really looking forward to eating the food grown in the Sumas Prairie,” said Prasad.

But while contamination doesn’t seem to be an issue, many farmers continue to deal with flood-related damage. Some fields near dike breaches were scoured by river water, which left silt and rock behind. Ahead of planting season, farmers and volunteers banded together for a massive field cleanup day to remove tons of debris and garbage.

Abbotsford blueberry farmer Jason Smith said surface water stripped the sawdust from beneath his blueberry plants, which were under a metre of water for five days in Matsqui Prairie, Abbotsford’s other main agricultural area, which saw flooding from heavy rain. His plants may have some root issues as well.

Smith, who is chair of the B.C. Blueberry Council, said each farmer impacted by flooding is making his or her own decision about how to recover. Some have decided to rip out struggling plants, while others have “stumped” them, removing branches so damaged roots can support the remaining foliage.

For those that replant, it will take about 10 years to return to full production. For those that stump, it will be three or four years.

Baumann said the cool spring weather has in some ways been a blessing to plants damaged by water. Extreme weather, such as a heat wave, would put added stress on the plants.

He praised the provincial ministry of agriculture for being responsive and quick to help farmers, but added the effects of 2021 will be felt for years to come.

Office of the Dean

Dr.

Michael Hitch Dean

Dr. Hitch joined UFV September 1, 2023 as the new Dean of Science. He also holds a faculty appointment in the Department of Geoscience. A senior leader with more than 38 years of academic and industry experience, he brings a strong history of sound management and combined track record of creating high-return opportunities. Dr. Hitch’s dedication in his previous roles has resulted in developing key industry partnerships that create undergraduate experiential learning programs. He has also partnered with school districts to promote STEM subjects and to help educate younger high school students about the mining and resources sector.

Dr. Lucy Lee Dean (2012-2023)

Dr. Lee came to UFV in 2012 and stepped into the role of Dean of Science. In addition to her regular duties as Dean, she is an active researcher. She is a fish cell biologist, and her expertise is in developing fish cell lines for biomedical and biotechnological applications. Her research cover areas in fish physiology, aquatic toxicology, fish parasitology, fish health, fish nutrition and fish endocrinology. Dr. Lee’s research is funded by NSERC and her current research program funded under the Discovery grant initiatives, involves developing fish olfactory cell lines, while under the Strategic grants, the development of shrimp cell lines is a priority. Dr. Lee will retire August 31, 2023 but will continue her research, publish and mentor students.

Janice Nagtegaal Manager, Academic and Administrative Services

Dr. Ian Affleck Associate Dean

Dr. Affleck joined UFV in 2005 as a math instructor. He taught courses in first year calculus for all BSc programs and has been a remarkable role model for our faculty, staff and students ever since. In 2017, he went on to receive the presigious UFV Teaching Excellence Award. He’s a leader in the delivery of several math competitions, stretching from elementary to undergraduate students. He served several terms as Department Head for the Math and Stats Department before joining the Dean’s office in 2021 as the new Associate Dean where he oversees outreach and curriculum, working with others in the Faculty of Science to discover ways to decolonize and Indigenize in each of these areas.

Caroline Majeau Administrative Assistant

Department of Agriculture

I work closely with local consultants, BC Ministry of Agriulcutre, Agriculture Canada experts, and various grower groups. My favourite part of teaching is that I get to help the next generation of farmers be future-ready, by focusing on evidence-based practices. Featured on page 32.

Besides teaching basic concepts, I strive to engage my students’ curiosity and use that to facilitates their learning. My research program will be focused on the introduction of new phytogenics, and nutraceutical plants, that might be selected among indigenous species, into cultivation.

I enjoy educating the farmers of tomorrow by using a `hands on`approach and believe in empowering students by letting them be the drivers of their own learning.

My research interests are in understanding the role of plant growth regulators in plant perception and response to changes in their environment, and how this can be applied to understand and predict climate change resilience and vulnerability of Canadian plant species.

Dr. Renee Prasad Department Head

Dr. Tadhg O`Leary

Dr. Javad Hadian

Dr. Lauren Erland, CRC Director of Berry Horticulture Research

Agriculture Sessional Instructors:

Sessional Instructors (not photographed):

Tristan Bouwman

Shelagh Niblock

Stephanie Laframboise Program Technician

Michelle Morier Department Coordinator

Rose Morrison

Dr. Dieter Geesing

Annette Moore

Jennifer Ryan

Department of Biology

Department Head

My research focusses on foraging, conservation, and reproductive success in various bird species. Lately, I have been investigating with my students how various disturbances (e.g. humans, bald eagles) affect nesting success at great blue heron colonies across the region.

My research background is in wildlife ecology and includes studies of habitat selection, migration and movement patterns, population dynamics and distributions, and species interactions, using large ecological datasets and telemetry data.

My students are currently performing gene annotation in different species of Drosophila. The scientific problem being investigated is how to distinguish between heterochromatic and euchromatic domains based on DNA sequence organization and comparative genomics. Featured on page 26.

My work focuses on the cellular and genetic mechanisms by which popular and emerging “super foods” increase healthspan, stress resistance and lifespan.

I’m an ecologist with interests in conservation and sustainability. Most of my research is in the field. I also have expertise in bats and white-nose fungal disease.

My reserach focuses on pollination ecology, with an eye to understanding both basic and applied aspects of pollination. Bumblebees in particular are wide spread and fascinating pollinator species.

My research focuses on the aspects of the biology of Japanese knotweed. This invasive shrub is considered to be among the top ten worst invasive plants in BC.

My research focuses on biological control, or the use of predators and pathogens to control pest species. I am interested in how ecological and evolutionary factors influence the success of biological control programs.

Dr. James Bedard

Dr. Nathan Bialas

Dr. Gregory Schmaltz

Dr. Yvonne Dzal

Dr. Sharon Gillies

Dr. Sandra Gillespie

Dr. Alida Janmaat

Jennifer Barrett

My research involves studying, characterizing and developing lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) encapsulating nucleic acids such as messenger RNA (mRNA) and small-interfering RNA (siRNA).

My research projects aim to understand how genomes, traits, environments, and development interact to build the vertebrate body, and how tweaks to all of these factors can facilitate evolution.

I am an ethnobotanist with a passion for sharing knowledge about the native flora in British Columbia. My research is focussed on plants.

My research background is in cellular physiology with a focus on the role of ion channels. I teach upper level courses in vertebrate anatomy and physiology and developmental biology.

My research focuses on Environmental Microbiology and Neurobiology which explores the interconnection between the microscopic world of microbes and the complexity of neural networks within the brain.

My research focuses on how ribosome malfunction causes disease, especially inherited paediatric syndromes called ribosomopathies, and cancer. I also conduct research on teaching & learning molecular genetics and genomics.

My research background is in microbiology, specifically on studying the effects of probiotic bacteria on gastrointestinal system. My research interests are currently focused on isolation and characterization of bacteriophages.

My work focuses on bird biology and conservation. I’m also a lab instructor for many biology courses.

Dr. Tony Stea

Dr. Alan Reid

Dr. Mitra Tabatabaee

Dr. Justin Lee

Dr. Marina Tourlakis

Dr. Debbie Wheeler

Dr. Natallia Varankovich

Dr. Dina Navon

Biology Sessional Instructors:

Biology Lab Technicians:

Avril Alfred

Ariel Brown

Shawna Dyck

Jenny Hamilton

Valentina Jovanovic

Dilan Praat (Temp 2023)

Fabiola Rojas

Daylan Pritchard (2022-2023)

Sessional Instructors (not photographed):

Angela Bedard

Shannon Guichon

Carlos Leon

Lindsay Spielman

Dylan Ziegler (LTA)

Pauleen Nuite

Department Coordinator 2008-2023

Dr. Carin Bondar Adjunct (2022-2025)

Jillian Bainard

Avril Alfred

Bassam Nyaeme Jane Shin

UFV Science Sampler Event with Jennifer Barrett, Biology Lab Instructor with Grade 8 students from Abbotsford Traditional School. (Photo courtesey of John Morrow/The Abbotsford News)

Department of Chemistry

I use molecular evolution experiments (in vitro selection) to discover new catalysts for synthetically or bio-medically relevant chemical reactions.

My current research interests are in molecular recognition and bioanalytical chemistry.

My research group focuses on investigating novel inorganic compounds towards small molecule activation and alternative fuel production. https://chianglabadventures. weebly.com/

My current research involves the generation of lipid nanoparticles, and maximizing the uptake and retention of chemotherapeutic agents.

I teach Chem 110, 113 and 114 labs at UFV and have extensive experience in Quality Control in the Petrochemical industry.

My current research interests are in proteomic analysis and bioanalytical chemistry.

http://www.golfamlab.com/

My interests are in the areas of mechanistic Organic, Property Directed Chemistry and Synthetic Chemistry.

My research involves applying computational chemistry and molecular modeling techniques to interdisciplinary studies, with a focus on the influence of high pressure on chemical systems.

Dr. Cory Beshara

Dr. Linus Chiang

Dr. David Fenske

Grant Frizke

Dr. Pedro Montoya-Pelaez

Dr. Golfam Ghafourifar

Dr. Jacob Spooner

Dr. Jason Thomas

Department Head

https://ufv.ca/chemistry/

Chemistry Lab Technicians:

Aileen Ablog

Leandra Chapman

Shawna Dyck

Shawn Millar

Chemistry Sessional Instructors:

Vinay Choytun

Sarah Hou

Ben Hui

Jackie Bryce

Department Coordinator

Department of Mathematics

Department Head

My research interests are in the area of differential equations involving interfaces, reactiondiffusion equations, numerical analysis, mathematical modeling, and simulation.

My teaching interests are in formative assessment methods in mathematics. My research is in harmonic analysis, functional spaces, and partial differential equations.

My recent focus has been on teaching in the Data Analysis Certificate program. The capstone course on Data Mining is my favourite. I will be on sabbatical leave next year, working on a project in Sports Analytics.

My teaching interests are in the areas of abstract algebra, number theory, geometry and topology. I have been the Science Rocks! Outreach Coordinator since 2016.

My research interests are in the areas of random effects modelling, extreme values and longitudinal data analysis, Bayesian mixed models and Bayesian analysis of dynamic data.

I am an applied math education researcher and enjoy working in a “living lab”. My current projects involve studying student calculus readiness and its effects on calculus performance as well as developing authentic and meaningful applications of mathematics to use in firstyear courses.

My research interests are in survival analysis and variable selection in high dimensional data. I have maintained longterm research collaboration with health services.

Topics of interest to me are experimental design and industrial statistics.

Dr. Ali Reza Fotouhi

Dr. David Chu Dr. Robin Endelman

Dr. Longlong Huang Dr. Kseniya Garaschuk

Dr. Ruwan Karunanayaka

Dr. Ben Vanderlei

Dr. Almaz Butaev

Mathematics and Statistics

I work in and coordinate the operation of the Math & Stats Centre as well as teach mathematics courses for the Upgrading and University Preparation Department.

My focus at UFV is teaching discrete mathematics -- math for computers! I am also involved in outreach activities by bringing the Math Mania Program to elementary schools in the Fraser Valley.

My research involves a study of bilingual teachers’ language use in classroom teaching and mathematical discussions; re-examination and deconstruction of beliefs about roles of multiple languages in bilingual individuals’ understanding of mathematics.

Visual representation and a relaxed environment are helpful for learning. One essential for me is turn-in (written) homework, because it’s essential to communicate results in a coherent way.

My teaching interests are in environmental and mulicultural education. My research interests are convex and discrete geometry, functional analysis, and geometric tomography.

My research interest is in the role that advanced mathematics content knowledge plays in secondary mathematics teachers’ knowledge for teaching.

I have been a statistical consultant for different industrial companies, hospitals and government agencies, and have many years of experience in analyzing real-world messy data.

My research interests are discrete mathematics and its application. I enjoy teaching calculus and discrete mathematics related courses.

Anna Kuczynska

Dr. Cynthia Loten

Dr. Stan Manu

Dr. Gillian Mimmack

Dr. Vanessa Radzimski

Dr. Shaun Sun

Dr. Joseph Yu

Dr. Serhii Myroshnychenko

Math

Sessional Instructors (not photographed):

Tanner Boos

Rafiq Chowdhury

Isha Dhiman

Ken Li

Tariq Nuruddin

Margret Bollerup Department Coordinator

Mohar Dey

Nooshin Lary Mandev Singh

Rachel Toews Dr. Eugene Yablonski (LTA)

& Stats Sessional Instructors:

UFV Science Open House 2023 with Dr. Ruwan Karunanayaka, Math and Stats Assistant Professor.

Planning, Geography, Environmental

As a registered urban planner and experienced educator, I work and lead international projects related to child rights, food systems, sustainable development goals, urban planning policy, and youth engagement.

My research involves the study of lots in the Agricultural Land Reserve classified unused, barren, and vacant by the BC Ministry of Agriculture.

My research focuses on technology and the future of food including the evolution of the food system including bioengineering, cultured meat, dietary trends and indoor agriculture.

I am a multidisciplinary researcher within environmental sustainability initiatives, with a passion for working towards social and Indigenous justice. My area of research includes sustainable forestry, culturally inclusive land stewardship, and resilient agricultural food systems. Featured on page 28.

My field of research is transitoriented development, new urbanism and smart growth. Further, I am passionate about quantitative analysis of the same through use of GIS and SPSS.

I adopt an interdisciplinary approach to my teaching and research in natural resources and economic geography. The development of forest-based, post-secondary research and learning opportunities is a priority.

Dr. Cherie Enns Department Head

Dr. Lenore Newman

Dr. Stefania Pizzirani

Dr. Afia Raja

Dr. Michelle Rhodes

Dr. Mariano Mapili

Environmental Studies

Amy Huesken

Department Coordinator

https://ufv.ca/planning-geography-environmental-studies/

Sessional Instructors:

Carin Bondar

Trevor Carolan

Rachel Chapman

Natasha Cox

Alesandros Glaros

Jennifer Hetherington (LTA)

Jennifer Martel

Department of Geoscience

My research interests focus on watershed and airshed issues affecting our local communities. Featured on page 30.

I teach a variety of first and second year geography courses in weather, climate, geology and geomorphology. I also take students on field school expeditions to Mount St. Helens and the Alberta Rockies.

My interests are in plant ecology, paleoecology, and natural hazards inspire my teaching portfolio in biogeography and research in Cascadia earthquake history and landscape ecology.

My research interests are mainly in understanding the character of environmental change in western Canada over the Quaternary Period (last ~ 2.5 million years). I am also the director of the Luminescence Dating Lab in SLUEC.

Sessional Instructors:

I am a lab instructor for undergraduate geography courses.

My background and training is in earth science and geographic information science. I have been involved in mapping research and analysis in diverse areas around the world.

Carolyn Atkins

Dr. J Hughes

Dr. Olav Lian

Kathy Peet

Dr. Scott Shupe

Amy Huesken

Department Coordinator

Maria Schaarschmidt Post-Doctoral Fellow 2022-2023

Steve Marsh

Department Head

Dr. Talha Qadri (LTA)

Faculty of Science Selected Publications - 2022-2023

UFV students (present, former undergraduates and graduates) and UFV post-docs have been underlined.

Bols, N.C., Lee, L.E.J. and Dowd, G.C. 2023. Distinguishing between ante factum and post factum properties of animal cell lines and demonstrating their use in grouping ray-fined fish cell lines into invitromes. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 59(1): 41-62. doi: 10.1007/s11626-022-00744-0

Butaev, A., and Dafni, G. 2023. Locally uniform domains and extension of bmo functions. Annales Fennici Mathematici, 48(2), 567–594. https://doi.org/10.54330/afm.132002

Chong, G.L.W., Bohmert, B., Lee, L.E.J., Bols, N.C. and Dowd, G.C. 2022. A continuous myofibroblast precursor cell line from the tail muscle of Australasian snapper (Chrysophrys auratus) that responds to transforming growth factor beta and fibroblast growth factor. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 58: 922-935 https://doi.org/10.1007/s11626-022-00734-2.

El Aal, A.A., Abdullah, G.M.S., Qadri, S.M.T., Abotalib, A.Z., and Othman, A. (2022) Advances on concrete strength properties after adding polypropylene fibers from health personal protective equipment (PPE) of COVID-19: Implication on waste management and sustainable environment. Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, Parts A/B/C 128:103260, https://doi. org/10.1016/j.pce.2022.103260.

Enns, C. and Kombe, W.J. 2023. Child Rights and Displacement in East Africa: Agency and Spatial Justice in Planning Policy 1st Ed. Routledge. New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003187820

Frey, C.M., Ku, K., Arad, M., and Ghafourifar, G. 2022. Development of a Novel Enzyme Immobilization Method Employing Formaldehyde and TESB To Fabricate Immobilized Enzyme Microreactor for Bottom-Up Proteomics. Analytical Methods 41: https://doi.org/10.1039/D2AY00840H

Garaschuk, K. 2022. Learning benefits of collaborative exams. Journal for Research and Practice in College Teaching, 7(1), p. 4255.

Garaschuk, K. and Mosunov, A. Eds. 2022. “Authentic Publications” First Year Math and Stats in Canada https://firstyearmath. ca/tlresources/

Hirabayashi, K., Murch, S.J., Erland, A.E. 2022. Predicted impacts of climate change on wild and commercial berry habitats will have food security, conservation, and agricultural implications. Science of The Total Environment, 845. https://doi. org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.157341.

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