Meet our Team

Being a member of the IMS Magazine team means getting the opportunity to learn more about science both within and outside of your field. It encourages you to expand your thinking and bridge the gap between basic and clinical, theoretical and applied, science and society. At IMS Magazine, you will learn the importance of storytelling – how to communicate complex ideas and convey key messages to your target audience, whether they are academics, policy makers, or the public.

Meet our team below!

Kristen Ashworth

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Kristen is a third-year PhD student working under the supervision of Dr. Brian Ballios at the Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute and Krembil Research Institute. Her thesis work is focused on developing a human retinal organoid model in which to evaluate stem cell therapies for USH2A-associated inherited retinal disease. Kristen loves cross country running, reading a good book, and most importantly, doting on her two adorable golden retrievers.

Twitter: @K_Ashworth01

Kyla Trkulja

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Kyla is a PhD student studying the mechanism of action of novel therapies for lymphoma under the supervision of Dr. Armand Keating, Dr. John Kuruvilla, and Dr. Rob Laister.

Twitter: @kylatrkulja

Suraiya Mangra

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Suraiya is a 2nd year MSc student investigating the effects of neuromodulation interventions on brain morphology in patients with neurodegenerative disorders at the Krembil Research Institute under the supervision of Dr. Andres Lozano.

Kevan Clifford

EXECUTIVE EDITOR – GENERAL

Kevan is a PhD student in the IMS program, working under the supervision of Dr. Yuliya Nikolova at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. His research combines bioinformatics and neuroimaging to characterize mechanisms of brain aging at the genetic level, and outcomes on brain structure and function. Outside of the lab, Kevan enjoys trail running, photography, and a good book (preferably while curled up with his cat, Rauru).

Kiko Huang

EXECUTIVE EDITOR – GENERAL

Kiko is an MSc student currently using large-scale population health data to analyze glaucoma diagnostic trends in Ontario! When she isn’t busy preparing for her thesis defense, she can usually be found enjoying the city and all of the wonderful foods it has to offer! Her current obsession: La Salumeria’s House Special Sandwich.

Nayaab Punjani

EXECUTIVE EDITOR – FEATURES

Nayaab is a PhD student working under the supervision of Dr. Michael Fehlings at the Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network. Her research is examining a neuroprotective drug therapy for cervical-level traumatic spinal cord injury. Beyond lab work, she works as a TA and residence don, and she enjoys digital art and nature photography in her free time.

Twitter: @nayaab_punjani

Leeza Teshler

Director of Social Media

Leeza is a PhD student working under the supervision of Dr. Brian Feldman at The Hospital for Sick Children. Her research investigates how to improve the clinical examination of musculoskeletal health for people with Hemophilia. Outside of research, she loves spending time outdoors, biking and exploring new cities.

Alyona Ivanova

Director of Distribution

Alyona is a PhD student investigating the molecular signature of glioblastoma using spatial ‘omics technologies at the Hospital for Sick Children. She is also a creative content manager at Panoramics – A Vision. Alyona is a professional figure skater and a model. She enjoys traveling, horse-riding, cooking, and reading.