› Hear from MBiotech’s current Class Reps. If you would like to connect with a MBiotech Student Ambassador, send an email to mbiotech.ambassadors@utoronto.ca. Are you a Work Term sponsor? Click here to select from our current student profile brochures.
DHT Rep › Year 1
My name is Zachery and I am honoured to serve as the first-year class representative for the DHT stream, Class of 2026. I majored in Biochemistry and Economics, earning an Honours Bachelor of Science at the University of Toronto. Over the past few years, I’ve gained extensive experience in both the scientific and business aspects of health innovation. I have led a biomedical venture focused on monitoring neurological diseases, directed projects examining the impacts of health policy on pharmaceutical usage and pricing, and fostered collaboration between academia, Harvard-based NGOs, and the biotech industry. My passion for Biotechnology stems from my optimism and sincere belief in the industry’s ability to impact equitable health outcomes for all, and it is this belief which lead me to pursue the MBiotech program at U of T. The MBiotech program provides a unique blend of scientific rigor and business acumen, fostering a holistic approach and robust background to digital health & innovation. I am excited to continue exploring the intersection of life sciences and business and, as a class representative, I am honoured to represent the breadth of unique perspectives and stories of each of my fellow classmates. I’m excited to work alongside every past, present, and future student in the program, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me.
Connect with Zachery on LinkedIn
DHT Rep › Year 1
My name is Neha Kodali, and I am honoured to serve as a first-year representative for the Master of Biotechnology - Digital Health Technologies Class of 2026. During my undergraduate studies, I conducted clinical research in digital health at the Hippy Lab at BC Children's Hospital - University of British Columbia. There, I was introduced to the transformative potential of machine learning applications for healthcare and life sciences, such as predictive analytics for drug discovery and development and AI-assisted diagnostic tools. This experience fostered a keen interest in digital health, particularly in precision medicine, leading me to pursue a master's degree in biotechnology at the University of Toronto. I truly believe that the program's multidisciplinary curriculum, integrating a comprehensive foundation in biotechnology with data science and business, will equip us to implement healthcare solutions that tackle systemic barriers and bridge care-gaps globally. I am excited to connect with my peers, faculty, and industry experts throughout this journey!
BioPh Rep › Year 1
My name is Yara, and I am honored to be a first-year representative for the MBiotech Biopharma Class of 2026! I completed my Honors BSc in Biochemistry and Biomedical Science at the University of Windsor, where I also held executive roles as Co-President and Events Coordinator for various student-led societies. These positions significantly enhanced my interpersonal skills and provided me with valuable leadership and team-building experience. In addition, my work as a Career Peer Advisor at the university’s Career Center has equipped me with a deeper understanding of career development. This perspective allows me to immediately recognize the MBiotech program as an exceptional avenue for both personal and professional growth. The program’s interdisciplinary curriculum along with its emphasis on application-based learning and internships, is critical in today’s competitive and rapidly evolving job market. Following my undergraduate studies, I gained invaluable industry experience working as a Microbiology Laboratory Analyst, where I gained firsthand insights into the operations and dynamics of a commercial laboratory environment. Now, I am eager to further enhance my knowledge and expertise in a field I am deeply passionate about through the MBiotech program. I look forward to connect with industry professionals, engage with my peers, and support prospective students. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or for a chat!
BioPh Rep › Year 1
My name is Sam, and I am very excited and honoured to represent the MBiotech Biopharma Class of 2026. I completed my undergraduate degree in Biology & Pharmacology at McMaster University with a concurrent certificate in Immunology, Microbiology, and Virology (IMV). My undergraduate experience and pharmacogenomic research experience in the Roth Lab have shaped my interest in biopharmaceuticals and overall led me to pursue the MBiotech program. The MBiotech program has provided students like me with a fantastic opportunity to enrich our scientific backgrounds with the business skills necessary to bring life-changing drugs to market. In addition to the unique blend of coursework, the MBiotech program aims to develop soft and interpersonal skills through networking events with faculty, alumni, and the Pharma industry, academic group collaborations, and a tight-knit class atmosphere. Based on my current experience in the MBiotech program, I can confidently recommend students who want to challenge themselves, build a strong network, and make a change in the biopharmaceutical industry to pursue it. I would be happy to share my program experiences or have a conversation with anybody interested, so please don’t be afraid to reach out!
DHT Rep › Year 2
My name is Alanna and I am serving as a first-year class representative for the MBiotech DHT stream Class of 2025. I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Windsor majoring in Health and Biomedical Sciences. Throughout my academic journey, I developed a keen interest in student advocacy, which led me to assume an executive role within various student organizations. All these valuable experiences have enhanced my interpersonal skills, which is something that I am looking to further improve throughout my current studies. My background from undergrad and passion for digital health innovations led me to discover the MBiotech program. This program is perfect for me as it provides an exceptional platform to explore the convergence of technology and healthcare while equipping me with the necessary skill set to excel in the field. I am immensely grateful to be surrounded by a remarkable community of individuals who share the same interests and aspirations as myself and I encourage anyone that is interested in science, technology, and business to consider joining the MBiotech DHT team!
Connect with Alanna on LinkedIn
BioPh Rep › Year 2
My name is Lauren and I am delighted to serve as a first-year representative for the MBiotech Biopharma Class of 2025. I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Toronto with a specialization in Molecular Biology and a Chemistry Minor. During my time there, I also had the privilege of conducting research in the Prosser Lab. These experiences not only broadened my knowledge but also ignited my passion for science, with a particular interest in the field of pharmacology. Motivated by my fascination with drug development and its potential to improve human health, I eagerly embraced the opportunity to join the MBiotech program which presents a unique blend of scientific expertise and essential business acumen, equipping students like myself with a comprehensive education that positions us to thrive in the industry. This program also places a strong emphasis on teamwork where we sharpen our ability to communicate effectively, think critically, and navigate complex challenges. In addition to technical expertise, the MBiotech program recognizes the significance of soft skills in shaping well-rounded professionals. Throughout this journey, I look forward to making new connections, collaborating with like-minded people, and seizing the abundant opportunities that lie before us to drive innovation. Please do not hesitate to reach out, I would love to connect!
Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn
BioPh Rep › Year 2
My name is Matthan and it is my pleasure to be a first-year representative for the MBiotech Biopharma Class of 2025. I completed my undergraduate degree in Biochemistry at Brock University. Post graduation I spent two years in the industry as a lab technician and as a salesperson selling SaaS to the biopharma space. Upon discovering the MBiotech program, I saw the perfect opportunity to leverage my experiences as a student, as well as a professional, to contribute to the frontiers of technology which seeks to enhance quality of life for all humans. The beauty of the program is that it is the perfect synergy between science and business. We’re training and improving our IQ in addition to our EQ. The lab components develop our theoretical knowledge, while the business and management classes enables students to express their innate talents and abilities to form networks, tackle unique problems, and bring a fresh, new, perspective to the biopharma and biotechnological industry. As a current student, I am thoroughly enjoying my adventure in the program, and I welcome any opportunity to share my experiences. I highly recommend the MBiotech program to anyone willing to challenge themselves and has a deep desire to work beyond the bench.
Connect with Matthan on LinkedIn
DHT Rep › Year 2
My name is Owen and I am this year’s first-year class representative for the MBiotech DHT stream Class of 2025. I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Guelph, majoring in Biomedical Science and minoring in Business Economics. The trifecta of health, business, and technology has been the driving force behind my academic pursuits and career aspirations. My passion for fitness and experience with a medical device company sparked my interest in digital health. The DHT stream offered a unique opportunity to gain the necessary skill set for this rapidly evolving field. MBiotech builds on the foundations of science and technology while incorporating crucial business principles. The team-oriented curriculum has enhanced my leadership and collaborative abilities. I chose MBiotech not only for the practical learning opportunities but because of the community. The collective energy from my peers and faculty creates an environment where we learn from each other, celebrate success and navigate challenges together. I look forward to representing the Class of 2025, connecting with the cohorts that came before us and meeting the prospective students in the years to come!
IMI GSC Rep › Year 2
My name is Gretta and I’m the Co-Chair for the Institute for Management & Innovation Student Council (IMISC)! I completed my Honours BSc at the University of Guelph with a major in Biomedical Science and a minor in Nutritional and Nutraceutical Sciences. Throughout my studies and after graduating, I gained experience working as a Program Director and Project Manager which allowed me to explore business applications. This experience along with my studies sparked my interest in pursuing a career that intertwines my passion for science, healthcare, education and business. When I came across the MBiotech program, I knew it was the perfect fit to learn how science meets business in the Biopharmaceutical industry! The combination of classroom, team-based and experiential learning prepares graduates to enter the industry with a competitive edge. Apart from the strong academic foundation that you gain, you also develop essential soft skills that you can apply in every context. The best part is that you get to connect and collaborate with so many people along the way! As an IMI GSC Representative, I am excited to help facilitate the interdepartmental community for MBiotech’s Digital Health and Biopharmaceutical Streams with the additional IMI Graduate Programs!
Connect with Gretta on LinkedIn
IMISC Rep › Year 1
My name is Pam, and I'm thrilled to serve as this year’s Junior Representative for the Institute for Management and Innovation Student Council (IMISC). I earned my BMSc with an Honours Specialization in Medical Cell Biology from Western University, where I also completed an internship in the vaccines division of a biopharmaceutical company. Post-graduation, I gained experience in pharmaceutical sales and marketing, which further fueled my interest in the field. Motivated by these experiences, I made the decision to pursue further education that would integrate my scientific background with business acumen. The Master of Biotechnology program at the University of Toronto, with its motto “Where Science Meets Business,” stood out to me as the perfect platform to align my professional aspirations. This program's comprehensive curriculum, including diverse academic courses and a practical internship, equips students with essential skills and industry connections for success in the field of biotechnology. Beyond academics, I enjoy contributing to and learning from a community of passionate and like-minded individuals. As the IMI GSC rep, I look forward to advocating for my peers, fostering meaningful interdepartmental connections, and actively contributing to the collaborative spirit that defines our MBiotech community!
MBiotech Graduate › Class 2024
My name is Andrew and I am a secoond-year representative of the MBiotech Biopharma Class of 2024. I did my undergraduate study at the University of Toronto, specialising in Pharmacology and majoring in Physiology. I also had the privilege to learn and research at the Salmena Lab. Outside of academia, I also explored extracurricular activities. I was the director of finance for numerous student organisations, and I conducted a choir. All these academic, scientific, leadership, teamwork, and project management experiences shaped me into the person I am today. I aim to find the intersection between pharmacology and business and see where it takes me! MBiotech is just the perfect program, blending industrial practices and considerations with scientific principles and methodologies. I am thriving in the everyday busyness, trying to turn my knowledge into applications. What is more important than the knowledge is the people I will meet along the way. Learning to teamwork and establishing long-lasting relationships with classmates are some of the highest priorities in MBiotech. As your Class Rep, I take it upon myself to deliver those goals, creating exciting events and providing class feedback for our benefit. To all the students, current and prospective, I wish you the best journeys and let’s show the world what we are capable of!
Connect with Andrew on LinkedIn
MBiotech Graduate › Class 2024
My name is Breanna and I am a second-year class representative for the MBiotech DHT stream class of 2024. I previously completed my undergraduate journey at the University of Windsor obtaining my degree in Biological Sciences with a specialisation in Neuroscience. Although my love for science only strengthened throughout my undergraduate degree, I had always hoped to learn more about the business aspect of health innovation, as well as enhance my interpersonal skills. Through this interest is how I came across the MBiotech Program. Not only does it allow science students to continue pursuing a scientific career, but it also allows them to explore all the benefits that come along with learning business skills. Within just a few short months of this program you’ll begin to notice an improvement not only in your ability to think abstractly within the sciences, but an improvement within all areas of your interpersonal skills. The MBiotech Program presents you with a diverse amount of opportunities, and saying yes to as many opportunities as your schedule allows is my advice to anyone wanting to join MBiotech.
Connect with Breanna on LinkedIn
MBiotech Graduate › Class 2024
My name is Crystal and being part of the Digital Health team here at MBiotech has already been a hugely impactful experience to me. I’ve built upon the skills I learned in my undergrad in Physiology & Pharmacology and have been learning how to bring these concepts to real, tangible health outcomes. The interdisciplinary curriculum keeps me engaged and learning something new about the industry every single day. The team environment fostered at MBiotech provides the optimal opportunity to develop communication and business skills along with the technical and science aspects. There is so much opportunity for us with the emergence of digital technologies, which continues to inspire me to affect change for patients in the real world. I’m so grateful to be a part of the DHT team—though we may be small, we are mighty!
Connect with Crystal on LinkedIn
MBiotech Graduate › Class 2024
I’m Jakub, and I chose MBiotech as I have been interested in how innovative technologies can help improve patients’ lives and I wanted to play a role in this outcome. MBiotech will give me the opportunity to do just that alongside strengthening my scientific knowledge and introducing me to the world of business and entrepreneurship. Additionally, MBiotech has allowed me to develop the practical soft skills vital to success in the industry such as teamwork, collaboration, and networking. The opportunities I’ve had at MBiotech are unparalleled to any other program, and I’d suggest it to anyone looking for a career that combines science and business.
Connect with Jakub on LinkedIn
MBiotech Graduate › Class 2024
My name is Max and I’m a senior representative for the Institute of Management and Innovation Graduate Student Committee. I completed my undergraduate degree the at University of Calgary majoring in Cellular and Molecular Biology. I originally moved to Calgary to train as a long track speed skater at the Olympic Oval, however I developed a passion for science after engaging in research. My research projects in genetic engineering and developmental biology sparked my interest in the pharmaceutical industry, leading me to the MBiotech Program. The MBiotech Program is unique within the Institute of Management and Innovation (IMI), simultaneously combining science and business experiences in a team-based setting. I’m particularly drawn to the emphasis on team dynamics which has shaped the way I approach projects and challenges. MBiotech also has an incredible network of past and present students from both the digital health and biopharmaceutical streams. I am excited to be apart of the MBiotech community and connect with students throughout the other exceptional IMI graduate programs.
MBiotech Graduate › Class 2023
My name is Aleksandra and I am currently completing my co-op placement as a Global Study Associate at AstraZeneca. To provide a little background: I completed my undergraduate degree at UofT specialising in Biotechnology with a Chemistry Minor. During my undergraduate degree I discovered a deep interest for pharmacology and everything surrounding clinical trials. What lead me to apply to MBiotech is the fact that it focuses on teaching us soft skills which are the most relevant in the industry. By working in teams, managing our projects, and forcing us to think outside of the box, this program made sure we are not only ready, but can thrive in the industry. My advice for the prospective students of MBiotech is: Do not be afraid to network. It could be reaching out to current MBiotech students or our alumni. Networking can offer you unique perspectives and some of the greatest advice. Keep an open mind and use your opportunities to the fullest.
MBiotech Graduate › Class 2023
My name is Shirley and I’m a representative for the MBiotech Class of 2023. I’m currently working in Patient Support Services at Sanofi, providing education, disease management resources, and financial assistance to patients on specialty therapeutics. Outside of work, I’m passionate about the arts, story-telling games, and trying new foods! I began my academic journey at the University of British Columbia, obtaining my Bachelor’s in Microbiology and Immunology. I established a strong background in research, collaborating in numerous labs in Canada and internationally. After graduation, I was seeking a career where my work would have a more immediate and tangible impact, so I eagerly dove into the world of biotechnology, working at a small company developing disease diagnostics. My enthusiasm for growth in the industry led me to MBiotech. I appreciated how the program focused not only on science and business, but also prioritized developing crucial soft skills like networking, communication, and teamwork. I’ve had many opportunities at MBiotech to collaborate with students from diverse backgrounds, which has taught me the importance of team cohesion and creating healthy group dynamics in any project or field. My biggest piece of advice is to always keep an open mind, and to be receptive to any and all experiences that come your way. The wealth of resources, support, and connections MBiotech provides will be your launching pad to career opportunities that you’ve never considered before—and you may end up loving where you land.
MBiotech Graduate › Class 2023
My name is Zoila and I am the Digital Health Technologies (DHT) class representative for the Class of 2023! I am currently a second year student and Data Science Associate at Roche Pharmaceuticals. Prior to MBiotech, I received my HBSc in Medical & Biological Physics from McMaster University. During my undergrad, I also took part in extracurriculars where I made recommendations for healthcare technologies and managed esports teams. Upon graduating, I realized I wanted to pursue a career that was more patient-centric. At the same time, I did not want to abandon the quantitative skills I gained through my degree. I ultimately chose DHT because of its interdisciplinary nature – it allows me to use my mathematical training, managerial competencies, and biological knowledge to drive changes for patients. My time in the MBiotech program has been nothing short of productive, which is mainly owed to the program’s growth opportunities. The group work aspect alone helps you develop flexibility in adapting to team needs and strategising project work according to team member strengths or academic backgrounds. The program also presents an abundance of opportunities for students to participate in research and professional competitions. These events are excellent resume builders and, better yet, places for you to test your knowledge in real world applications. For prospective students: if you want to develop a technical edge to complement your biological knowledge, DHT could be a great place for you! And don’t forget to take all of the opportunities that you can – you may be pleasantly surprised!