Ayesha Shabir

2022 (September - December)

HL IB Biology Research project on the effect of microgravity on the early growth of Lactuca sativa

• As part of the International Baccalaureate program, conducted a research project on the independently chosen topic of plant growth in microgravity
• Applied the scientific method by forming a hypothesis, performing experiments and conducting statistical analysis (ANOVA, t-tests)
• Presented background information, preliminary research, findings and conclusion in the form of a scientific research paper and obtained the highest mark (24/24)
• Utilized academic databases to understand the area of research, determine experimental designs and perform preliminary experiments to ensure accuracy
• Built clinostat with adjustable rpm and ensured proper functioning through background research and preliminary experiments

Winter 2024 (January - April)

PSL190: Biomedical Research at the Cutting Edge 

• Can communicate scientific concepts with clarity and precision
• Able to find, read and analyze scientific papers
• Capable of developing testable hypotheses, choosing appropriate experimental designs, and interpreting results
• Thorough understanding of in vivo FABP4 activity on GSIS
• Thorough understanding of CRH neurons' role in transmission and buffering of synaptic changes after stress

Fall 2023 (September - December)

BIO120: Adaptation and Biodiversity

• Proficient in principles and concepts of evolution and ecology, emphasizing origins of adaptation and biodiversity
• Applied empirical and theoretical approaches to explore mechanisms of biological diversification.

Fall 2023 (September - December)

BIO130: Molecular and Cell Biology

• Developed understanding of fundamental principles in molecular and cell biology
• Focused on exploring how the basic building blocks of life contribute to the functionality of cells
• Developed laboratory skills relevant to molecular biology such as micropipetting, DNA isolation, gel electrophoresis, PCR, use of bioinformatics tools and use of restriction enzymes for cloning
• Developed laboratory skills relevant to cell biology such as phase contrast microscope viewing and analysis fo live organisms under a microscope