STUDENT BURSARIES & YOUNG RESEARCHERS AWARDS

Oki/Hello, my name is Haley Shade, and I am a member of the Kainai/Blood Tribe First Nation, located in Southern Alberta (Treaty 7). I completed my Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences at the University of Lethbridge during the spring of 2021. I am currently completing an NSERC URSA under the supervision of Dr. Roy Golsteyn. I will begin my studies in the Doctor of Medicine program at the Cumming School of Medicine, located at the University of Calgary (Treaty 7) in the summer of 2021.

My research focuses on the integration of Indigenous traditional knowledge with western sciences, specifically cell biology and natural product research. My research utilizes common cell biology techniques alongside the use traditional medicines and knowledge. It is important within our laboratory setting that this process is done respectfully and in consultation with community elders. The goal of my research is to bridge the gap between western science and Indigenous traditional knowledge.

I believe it is important to recognize that Indigenous peoples have established and possess knowledge and connections to the land we now call Canada since time immemorial. It is critical that Indigenous students such as myself can conduct meaningful research in which we have the opportunity to maintain our cultural ways and understandings while also moving forward with western science. I acknowledge Indigenous researchers who have come before me and celebrate future Indigenous scholars in the years to come.