I am a Biomedical Engineering PhD student at the University of Toronto. My research focuses on computationally modeling the cellular dynamics for the differentiation of human embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) into cardiomyocytes and alveolar epithelial cells.
Before this, I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Winnipeg, majoring in Biochemistry and Mathematics. During my studies, I became really interested in biomedical science, especially in areas like biochemistry, molecular genetics, tissue engineering, and mathematical modeling for diseases. This made me extremely interested in pursuing exciting research and work opportunities in these fields.
As an international student in the past, I have had the chance to interact with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. This has helped me adapt quickly to new situations and gain a broader perspective. I am always eager to learn new things and enjoy solving problems.
Beyond my academic pursuits, I like to read books, spend time with friends, explore new cuisines, and play Monopoly competitively. I believe my experiences in both my academic and personal life have shaped me, and I’m excited to apply and refine the skills I’ve developed whenever the opportunity arises.
University of Toronto
Advisor: Cristina H. Amon, ScD
2023 – Present
University of Winnipeg
Advisor: Michael Eze, PhD; Jamie Galka, PhD
2019 – 2022
2024-2025 | Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) - $15,000 CAD |
2024 | Golden Key Graduate Scholar Award - $1500 USD |
2024 | Stem Cell Network Travel Award - $2200 CAD |
2024 | School of Graduate Studies (SGS) Conference Grant - $530 CAD |
2024 | The University of Winnipeg Golden Key Chapter Distinguished Alumni Award |
2022 | University Convocation Gold Medal for Highest Achievement in Mathematics (4 Year) |
2020, 2022 | Dean’s Honour List – Student of Highest Distinction |
2022 | Academic Proficiency Scholarship - $400 CAD |
2021 | UWSA International Student Health Plan Bursary - $400 CAD |
2021 | International Student Services Award - $300 CAD |
2021 | General Bursary (Undergraduate) - $1200 CAD |
2021 | The University of Winnipeg Golden Key Chapter In-Course Scholarship - $500 CAD |
2021 | Chemistry Faculty Scholarship - $600 CAD |
2021 | Crawford Campbell Memorial Scholarship in Mathematics - $1200 CAD |
2020 | Dr. Jessie Blackwood Lang Scholarship - $2339 CAD |
2020 | Academic Proficiency Scholarship - Robert Bruce Fund - $450 CAD |
2020 | Salem Abd-El-Aziz International Chemistry Scholarship - $1000 CAD |
Driven by curiosity, I’m passionate about blending research, leadership, and service to create a positive impact.
avikpeferdinand@outlook.com