Hello! My name is Viktoria, and I’m a fourth year student at University of Toronto pursuing a Human Biology major and double minor in Immunology and Physiology. In my research, I investigated how immune dysfunction contributes to Parkinson’s Disease (PD) pathogenesis, a condition that has immensely impacted my family. My work integrates computational transcriptomic analysis of patient data with experimental validation in a preclinical mouse model. This integrative approach aims to uncover immune-related biomarkers that could inform precision-based, disease-modifying immunomodulatory therapies that slow or prevent PD progression. 

My fascination with the immune system began with my own experience navigating everyday life with my anaphylactic allergies. Early exposure to the immune system’s complexity inspired my ongoing commitment to understanding how immune dysregulation underpins disease. PD is close to my heart, and I’m motivated to have my work contribute to better diagnostics and treatments for patients worldwide. 

Looking ahead, I aspire to pursue PhD studies at the intersection of immunology, neuroscience, and human genomics. I’m passionate about translating academic research into real-world solutions and hope to work in industry to help leverage immune insights for targeted, accessible therapies. I’m also a language enthusiast; I love learning new languages and immersing myself in different cultures, and I believe cross-cultural communication is essential for global health innovation and leadership.

When I’m not in the lab, you can find me studying in new cafes, trying new restaurants, reading, browsing vinyl records for an absurd amount of time, and of course travelling whenever life permits!

The Laidlaw Scholars Programme has been an incredibly meaningful part of my academic journey thus far, empowering me to ask bold questions, build hands-on research skills, and connect with a vibrant community of change-makers. If you’re curious about Parkinson’s research, immunology/neuroscience/biotech, or just want to connect, feel free to reach out on my LinkedIn. I’d love to hear from you!