My name is Jessica and I am currently a PhD candidate at McGill University in the lab of Samantha Gruenheid. I completed by BSc and MSc in the department of Microbiology and Immunology and have continued my PhD in this department. Currently my project focuses on the role of Parkinson's Disease associated genes in the intestinal immune and epithelial cells. My motivation for conducting research is curiosity and the love for the challenges that force me to think outside the box. Attending conferences and meeting people outside of my research bubble has also been incredibly rewarding. I look forward to continue connecting with others through TRIANGLE and other conference opportunities. Outside of the lab I enjoy spending time outdoors doing sport like dance, volleyball, tennis, and running!