Nova Scotia Women in STEM Mentorship Network (WSMN)
WSMN aims to encourage young women to participate in STEM activities and education through free and accessible mentorship
Submit a Question
Do you have a question about STEM fields, pathways, or careers? Please submit your question here, and we will answer it at our next event.
Meet the Mentors!
ASLA President, Professor, Biology, Dalhousie University
I am a professor at the Department of Biology at Dalhousie University and I am extremely passionate about the research my lab does to study programmed cell death (PCD) using the lace plant as a novel model (http://pcdlab.biology.dal.ca/arunika.html). I also love teaching and mentoring students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
It’s been a privilege to be involved in outreach activities in my province and I currently serve as president of the Atlantic Science Links Association (https://www.atlanticsciencelinks.ca/). I strongly believe in promoting science to young women because, as a woman who has overcome systemic barriers to succeed in my field, I want to convey the message that STEM needs women because we are capable of making tremendous contributions to all areas of science. I want to contribute to efforts that make this possible for young girls and accessible to women from diverse backgrounds with interest in any of the incredible different areas of STEM.
I grew up in Sri Lanka, but over the last 30 years, I have had the unique opportunity to experience academia internationally as a graduate student, post-doc and professor. I now live in Halifax with my husband Rajesh Rajaselvam, who is also a faculty member at the Biology Department at Dalhousie. Our daughter Anisha Rajaselvam is a fourth-year undergraduate student studying biophysics and molecular genetics at the University of Toronto. The three of us have a shared love of science and nature, so we often spend time outdoors and exploring biodiversity all around the world.
Dr. Arunika Gunawardena
Post-Doctoral Fellow, Medicine, Dalhousie University
I’ve always been fascinated by the intersection of biology and technology, which led me to pursue an undergraduate degree in both computer science and biology. That curiosity eventually brought me to cancer research, where I completed my PhD in cancer biology. Now, as a postdoctoral researcher, I study breast cancer, identifying molecular
markers that drive tumour aggressiveness and exploring how we can use this knowledge to develop better treatments. Science is about solving mysteries, and I love the challenge of uncovering how cancer cells work at a molecular level. My work involves a lot of data analysis—using bioinformatics to make sense of complex biological processes. It’s amazing how much we can learn from patterns hidden in massive datasets!
But science isn’t just about experiments and numbers—it’s also about mentorship, collaboration, and curiosity. As a woman in STEM, I know firsthand how important it is to have role models who encourage and empower the next generation. I want to help young women see that they not only belong in science, technology, and medicine but that their perspectives and contributions are essential. I’m excited to be a mentor because I believe the future of STEM depends on diverse voices pushing boundaries in ways we can’t even imagine yet. I’d love to help you explore your interests, build confidence, and find what excites you in STEM!
Dr. MC Wasson
Aquatic Science Biologist - BIO (DFO Science)
I’m an Aquatic Science Biologist working with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography (BIO). I have my Bachelor of Science from Dalhousie University here in Nova Scotia and my Master’s in Resource Management from Simon Fraser University in British Columbia. My research interests have centered
on aquatic plant biology and ecology, from the cellular level up to coastal marine ecosystem interactions. My professional experience spans both academic institutions and government agencies at the provincial and federal levels. I am committed to advancing both scientific knowledge and conservation efforts across our coasts and supporting the health of our vital marine ecosystems and the closely connected communities that steward them.
As a member of the ASLA Women in STEM Mentorship Network, I am passionate about and dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where women in STEM can thrive. I am happy to share my experiences navigating a career in biology and applied science, providing guidance and encouragement to those interested in pursuing similar paths.
I live in Halifax and love to spend time swimming in the lakes, surfing, and going on camping trips!
Meredith Fraser
PhD Student, Biology, Dalhousie University
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Hi everyone, I'm Tiara, from the historic African Nova Scotian community of Lake Loon. I completed my undergraduate studies at Dalhousie University, where I majored in Biology and Mathematics. Currently, I'm pursuing my PhD, focusing on muscle research using fruit flies as a model organism to better understand genetic mutations
and their impacts on muscle repair and health.
Beyond my academic pursuits, I'm deeply committed to making STEM fields more inclusive and accessible. I am actively involved in various initiatives and organizations dedicated to empowering Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (EDIA) in STEM. These efforts range from leading student groups that help newcomers navigate academia, to advocating for broader representation and support within the scientific community.
My desire to mentor stems from a belief in the power of visible role models and the critical need for diverse voices in scientific research. I aim to be a mentor because I want to inspire and guide the next generation, especially those from underrepresented groups, helping them see themselves as future leaders and innovators in STEM. Through mentorship, I hope to empower students by sharing knowledge, providing support, and encouraging them to overcome challenges and seize opportunities in their educational and career journeys.
Tiara Mulder
Master’s Student, Microbiology & Immunology, Dalhousie University with Industry Experience
Hello! I’m a Master’s student and Killam Laureate at Dalhousie University in the Department of Pathology. My current research is centered on developing new targeted therapies for breast cancer. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Microbiology & Immunology at Dalhousie University and then worked in the
cell therapy industry in Massachusetts, USA, from 2021 to 2023. During my time in industry, I helped evaluate early-stage cancer treatments involving chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells, and I also helped engineer B cells for cancer treatment using CRISPR gene-editing technology. Outside of research, I enjoy interior design and playing video games. I’m excited to be part of the NS Women in STEM Mentorship Network and look forward to answering any questions you have about careers and opportunities in STEM.
Bakhmala Khan
Undergraduate Student, Biology, Dalhousie University
Hi there! My name is Cora, and I am from Newfoundland. I began my undergraduate degree at Dalhousie in 2021, working towards a Bachelor of Science with a major in
Biology. I am particularly interested in plant biology and cell biology and learning the different mechanisms of how cells work. Currently, I am volunteering in the Gunawardena
lab, where I am learning plant tissue culture techniques using lace plants. From volunteering in the Gunawardena lab, I am gaining knowledge of experimental procedures, and I plan to contribute to this lab by conducting summer research and pursuing my honours thesis.
Beyond my academic interests, I volunteer with the Dalhousie Medical Campus Response Team as a patient volunteer, and I plan to become a volunteer medical responder in the future.
After graduation, I aspire to attend medical school and pursue a career within the medical field where I can combine my love for science and my desire to help others.
In my free time, I enjoy exploring the outdoors by hiking, staying active with volleyball and yoga, and baking. Recently, I also started learning to crochet and have started making a blanket!
I am super excited to be a part of this volunteer program, and I am looking forward to being a mentor to encourage young women to pursue opportunities in STEM.
Cora Mitchell
Assistant Professor, Biology, Acadia University
My name is Dr. Wasundara Fernando, and I am an Assistant Professor and a Cancer Biologist at Acadia University, Wolfville NS. I obtained my BSc (in Pharmacy) from University of Colombo, Sri Lanka and moved to Canada for my graduate studies where I obtained my MSc and PhD degrees from Dalhousie University, Halifax NS.
My doctoral research was focused on investigating the potential of food biomolecules to fight breast cancer and in recognition of the doctoral findings I was awarded Dr. Wenda Greer Prize for Research Excellence in 2019. I completed my postdoctoral training at the Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University as a Dr. David H. Hubel postdoctoral fellowship awardee.
My newly established laboratory at Acadia University is focused at understanding the mechanisms of cancer progression, metastasis, recurrence and development of chemoresistance.
I also study pharmacokinetics of novel drugs to understand proper dosing and drug metabolism. My research work is complemented by collaboration across national and international institutes.
I am passionate about teaching, research and mentoring the next generation of scientists. I am also actively involved in public outreach including alumni activities and community development. Outside my professional interests, I enjoy music, poetry, line art and astronomy.
Dr. Wasundara Fernando
Post-Doctoral Researcher, Physics and Atmospheric Sciences, Dalhousie University
I completed my BSc in Chemistry back in Sri Lanka at University of Colombo. My research project focused on polymer gas sensors. I moved to the US for my MS where I worked on inorganic catalysts for energy storage systems at Arizona State University. I am a good cook and an expert on all sorts of Sri Lankan curries and desserts.
So, I thought I could apply my cooking skills in my lab and pursued a PhD in organic chemistry (synthesis) and electrochemistry at Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia. At Deakin, I carried out research studies on solid state electrolytes “organic ionic plastic crystal electrolytes” for Lithium metal batteries. Additionally, I worked for CSIRO (The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation) and Li-S LtD in Melbourne, Australia where I focused on polymer electrolytes. Currently, I am working at the Dahn-Metzger-Yang research group as a postdoctoral researcher focusing on electrolytes for silicon-based lithium ion batteries. Our industry partner is TESLA and we are conducting interesting research work. Back in Melbourne I mentored students at Melbourne High School (Victoria). I also participated in introducing some fun and interesting experiments to students in rural Victoria. I greatly enjoyed the experience specially because it encouraged students to explore different areas of STEM.
Dr. Shanika Abeysooriya
Electrical Engineer-in-Training, Strum Consulting
My name is Samantha Hodge and I’m an Engineer in Training in Halifax. I graduated from Dalhousie in 2023 with a degree in Electrical Engineering and a certificate in Biomedical Engineering. Throughout my degree, I worked with the Dalhousie Women in Engineering Society, and I was also co-chair
for their annual Go Eng Girl event.
Through Dal WiE, I had the opportunity to go to conferences for Women in Engineering to hear from lots of inspirational women, and learn more about the impact they have made in their field.
I love having the opportunity to connect with women in STEM, so I’m very excited about the opportunity to join the ASLA mentorship network.
Samantha Hodge
Medical Student, Dalhousie University
Hello everyone, I’m Michaela! I grew up in Nova Scotia and completed an Undergraduate degree in Microbiology & Immunology/ Philosophy in 2021 and a Master’s in Microbiology & Immunology in 2023 at Dalhousie before beginning my studies at Dalhousie Medical school in the class of 2027! As a current medical student, I have always been
fascinated by both the intricate complexities of the human body and the various social determinants of health that alter every patient’s health journey within the medical system. However, I was involved in multiple research projects in both Plant Biology and Microbiology throughout my Undergraduate and Master’s degrees, completing research assessing novel antimicrobial compounds in plant compounds and also investigating how cellular scaffolding protein signals can change how cancer cells grow and multiply.
Outside of my academic interests, I am a past ASLA administrative assistant and have been involved in multiple initiatives to engage young students in science. I am also heavily involved in advocating for people with disabilities in STEM to receive greater accessibility and inclusion within academic and professional spaces. In my spare time, I love bird watching, art, playing my guitar, and dancing (any kind!! I just like to move!)!
My journey to medical school was filled with plenty of detours and pit stops - so I look forward to sharing my experience with aspiring STEM students to learn about the many ways that science can enrich your life as you navigate towards your educational and career journeys within STEM!
Michaela Kember
Master’s Student, Applied Mathematics,
University of Waterloo
Hi, I'm Erika! I received my Bachelor of Science in physics and mathematics from Dalhousie University in 2023 and am now pursuing a Master of Mathematics in applied mathematics at the University of Waterloo. Currently I am working in the fluid dynamics field, but past research has included medical physics and atmospheric science.
A fun fact about me: I love birds and grew up with a small flock of backyard chickens, one of whom even made it into my graduation photoshoot (her name is Ophelia, and she was the real star that day). Having been homeschooled for my K-12 education, I had the freedom to hone my skills in mathematics as my interest in it grew. However, I still had a few surprises upon entering my undergraduate studies, and I learned many important lessons especially in my first year. I’m excited to be a mentor and pass on these lessons, so that others can head into university more prepared!
Erika Kember
ASLA Administrative Assistant, Research Assistant, Biology, Dalhousie University
Growing up in a small town in Nova Scotia, I remember having no idea what I wanted to do after high school. I was always fascinated by science and technology, but I didn’t know what my options were, aside from becoming a “scientist.” I ended up attending the University of Guelph, where I studied plant science . During the COVID-19
pandemic, I moved back to Nova Scotia and transferred to Dalhousie University, where I completed my Bachelor of Science in biology. Now I work as the administrative assistant for Atlantic Science Links Association (ASLA), where I coordinate science outreach programs for teachers and students. I also work as a part-time research assistant in the Gunawardena lab at Dalhousie. In the lab, I study plant biology and support a wide range of research projects. Once a week I volunteer at the Museum of Natural History, where I support elementary school field trips and conduct public programming. In my spare time I enjoy watching movies and spending time in nature.
From attending university virtually during the COVID-19 pandemic, to transferring schools over halfway through my degree, my educational experience has been somewhat tumultuous. There is so much information I wish I knew! I hope to share my wisdom about university and research with other young women who are interested in STEM.
Valerie Schagen
Past Events:
Q&A Seminar
Are you a self-identifying girl in grades 10-12? Do you have questions about careers in STEM? Attend our seminar! Submit your questions in the registration form ahead of time, or bring them to the event.
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Date: Tuesday, April 8th, 2025
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Time: 6 - 7 pm
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Location: Virtual, via Zoom​​
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