Alexis Marcotte-Chénard, PhD
Postdoctoral Fellow
“Dr. Alexis Marcotte-Chénard completed his undergraduate degree in Human Kinetics at the University of Sherbrooke (QC, Canada), followed by a master’s degree at the same institution. During his master’s, Alexis focused on the impact of exercise on improving cardiovascular health in women living with type 2 diabetes (T2D). In addition to the clinical aspect of his research, he developed a keen interest in epidemiological studies and meta-analysis. Subsequently, Alexis completed his PhD, where he delved into the non-pharmaceutical management of cardiovascular disease in individuals living with T2D. Employing a diverse array of methods, ranging from omics approaches to epidemiological studies, Alexis focused on understanding how physical activity and sedentary behavior contribute to improving the physical and mental well-being of those living with T2D. Additionally, Alexis undertook a postgraduate microprogram in transversal research skills, concentrating on knowledge dissemination and science popularization. Apart from research, Alexis enjoys moving heavy objects against gravity (i.e., resistance training), hiking with friends, and eating good food!”
Seth McCarthy
Barbara Oliveira
Clinical Research Coordinator
Dr. Barbara Oliveira, PhD, is a dietitian with a background in both nutrition and diabetes. Barbara began her education with a bachelor in Dietetics, and continued her academic journey with a MSc degree in Neuroscience focusing on antioxidant vitamins and Alzheimer’s disease. In her PhD she studied the impact of vitamins on type 1 diabetes which led her interest in research to a Postdoctoral appointment at the University of British Columbia (UBC). With Dr Little she explores how various low-carbohydrate dietary interventions impact type 2 diabetes. These experiences gave her the strong background in nutritional interventions for the prevention, treatment and remission of type 2 diabetes. Dr. Oliveira now serves as a clinical research coordinator overseeing several clinical trials focused on nutrition and diabetes management.
She loves the gym, time with her kids, running and watching shows on TV!
Garett Jackson
PhD student
Current Research: Garett’s research focuses on the impact of acute submaximal aerobic exercise on immune cell recruitment and mobilization in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). More specifically, the bout of exercise is based on updated physical activity guidelines for individuals living with SCI.
Garett is from Prince George BC, and moved to the Okanagan in 2013. Outside of academia, Garett enjoys boxing, biking, archery and working on cars.
Email: garett_jackson@hotmail.com
Twitter: @GarettJackson1
Jake Winkler
PhD student
Research Coordinator | Airborne Disease Transmission Research Cluster
Jake completed his Master’s in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of British Columbia in 2019. Jake is the Research Coordinator for the newly funded Eminence Cluster at UBCO, called the Airborne Disease Transmission Research Cluster. The Cluster aims to make health care safer by ‘breaking the chain of aerosol transmission’ for diseases like COVID-19. Jake’s role is to ensure the cluster meets research milestones and to assist Dr. Jonathan Little with planning and implementing health research.
In his spare time, Jake is an avid outdoorsman – enjoying multi-day canoe, biking, and hiking trips. Jake also enjoys skiing, running, playing hockey and guitar.
Spencer Ursel
MSc Student
Spencer completed his BSc at The University of British Columbia Okanagan in biochemistry and molecular biology. During this time, Spencer completed an honours thesis for his research on intest
inal stem cells, designer probiotics, and how they can influence the mucus barrier of the gut. Current research interests for Spencer are a culmination of his personal pursuits in exercise and sport, in addition to his fascination with human metabolism and biology. Spencer’s masters degree will examine how exercise regimes, body composition, and dietary interventions can impact mitochondrial respiration. Apart from laboratory work Spencer is an ultra distance triathlete, and rock climber, he enjoys socializing and surrounds himself with friends and family.
Tori Bouck
MSc Student
Tori completed her undergraduate degree in Kinesiology at Queen’s University, where she
completed an honours thesis project examining the effect of pre-exercise feeding on acute glycemic responses to high-intensity exercise. Her MSc research involves a pilot study exploring the efficacy and feasibility of an exercise training intervention consisting of brief, isolated bouts of vigorous exercise (“exercise snacks”) among individuals living with type 2 diabetes. Outside of the lab, Tori enjoys running and spending time with family and friends.
Roderick Sandilands
MSc Student
Roddie graduated with a BSc in Human Kinetics from St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish, Nova Scotia. During this time, he completed his honours thesis in the realm of child growth and development investigating physical literacy in children who participate in elite sport and children who attend a well-structured afterschool physical activity program. Roddie’s research within EMIL focuses on the feasibility and efficacy of integrating brief movement breaks (termed exercise “snacks”) into real-world settings. More specifically, he is interested in the acute and chronic effects of exercise snacks on glucose control, physical activity, and sedentary behaviour among individuals living with type 2 diabetes.
Outside of the lab Roddie can be found on the golf course, at the rink, tennis court, spending time with friends and family, reading, and listening to podcasts.
Yuan Ji
MSc Student
Yuan completed her undergraduate and master’s degrees in clinical medicine at Nanjing Medical University in China. Her previous research focused on the molecular mechanisms of cardiovascular complications of diabetes, studying the activating effect of fatty acids on BK channels in diabetic coronary artery smooth muscle cells. Yuan’s master’s research will explore the impact of low-calorie and low-carbohydrate diets on type 2 diabetes remission. In her spare time, she enjoys practicing Yoga and Pilates and spending time with friends and family.
Ella Harness
MSc Student
Ella completed her BHSc in Biochemistry and Biomedical Research at McMaster University. During this time, she completed her honours thesis in medicinal chemistry, specifically the development of novel antibiotics. After taking many metabolism focused courses throughout her undergrad, she chose to join EMIL to learn more about the implications of lifestyle within metabolic diseases. Outside of the lab, Ella enjoys hiking, backcountry camping, all water-based activities, and spending time with friends and family.