Reke Ferdinand Avikpe

  • PhD Student
  • Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto
  • University Health Network

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.

Education

PhD, Biomedical Engineering

University of Toronto

Advisor: Cristina H. Amon, ScD

2023 – Present

BSc(Hons), Biochemistry
BA, Mathematics

University of Winnipeg

Advisor: Michael Eze, PhD; Jamie Galka, PhD

2019 – 2022

2024-2025Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) - $15,000 CAD
2024Golden Key Graduate Scholar Award - $1500 USD
2024Stem Cell Network Travel Award - $2200 CAD
2024School of Graduate Studies (SGS) Conference Grant - $530 CAD
2024The 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