Curriculum Vitae

Current Position

2024 - present

Postdoctoral Researcher

University of Copenhagen, Denmark
Supervisors: Dr. William Agace
Project title: Exploring the importance of microbiome-fibroblast crosstalk in intestinal immune regulation

Education

2014 - 2017

MSc in Microbiology and Infectious Diseases

University fo Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
Supervisors: Dr. Shawn Lewenza and Dr. Rebekah DeVinney
Thesis title: Small molecule biofilm inhibitors with antivirulence properties against Pseudomonas aeruginosa

2008 - 2014

BPharm Generalist Formation

Federal University of Alfenas (Unifal-MG), Alfenas, MG, Brazil
Supervisor: Dr. Luiz Felipe Leomil Coelho
Honours thesis title: Protective potential of bovine serum albumin nanoparticles associated with total antigens from Pseudomonas aeruginosa in a mouse model of nasal infection (translated from Portuguese)
6 years including a one-year exchange program at the University of Calgary

2019 - 2023

PhD in Immunology

University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
Supervisors: Dr. Marie-Claire Arrieta and Dr. David Proud
Thesis title: The role of intestinal fungi on microbiome ecology, host immune development, and susceptibility to airway inflammation

Fellowships and Scholarships (Values in Canadian Dollars)

May 2021

Frederick Banting and Charles Best Graduate Doctoral Scholarship

Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) ($35,000.00/year, for 3 years)
Application ranked 9th (1.8%) nationally within the Doctoral Research Awards - A Committee

May 2019

Eyes High Doctoral Recruitment Scholarship

Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Calgary ($27,000.00/year, for 4 years)

Apr 2015

Cystic Fibrosis Canada Studentship

Cystic Fibrosis Canada Foundation ($10,000/year, for 2 years)

Sept 2014

Beverley Phillips Rising Star Studentship

Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary ($25,000.00/year, for 2 years)

Sept 2012

Science Without Borders Scholarship

Brazilian Federal Government ($40,000.00*, for 1 year)
*Estimated value: $5,000.00 directly awarded to student in monthly payments, with program also covering expenses for visa support, flight tickets, full year of international student tuition fees at the University of Calgary, installation, and meals

Research Awards, and Distinctions (Values in Canadian Dollars)

Nov 2023

Outstanding Thesis Award

Faculty of Graduate Studies - Immunology Program ($1,000.00).
Thesis unanimously nominated for a national or international award by examiners

Apr 2023

Tri-Program Advanced Travel Award

Graduate Science Education, University of Calgary ($1,500.00)

Apr 2023

Immunology Graduate Program Student Nominee

International Congress on Academic Medicine (ICAM) ($2,500.00).
Student nominated from the Immunology Graduate Program of University of Calgary to attend the ICAM congress, in Québec City, Canada. Only one student selected from each of the graduate programs in Health Sciences.

July 2022

President’s Rising Stars Distinction

20th International Conference of Mucosal Immunology, Society of Mucosal Immunology
One of the five abstracts selected by the Society of Mucosal Immunology president, Dr. Michael McGuckin, to present at a Plenary Session of the ICMI 2022

June 2022

Second Place Poster Presentation Award

Having IMPACTT 2022 Conference, International Microbiome Centre ($250.00)

May 2022

First Place Oral Presentation Award

Shaffer-Davison Research Day, University of Calgary ($250.00)

June 2020

David Proud Award in Research Excellence

Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary ($500.00)

Jan 2020

First Place Oral Presentation Award (Ph.D. section)

Kananaskis Inflammation Workshop, University of Calgary

Nov 2019

Immunology Program Recruitment Award

Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Calgary ($2,500.00)

July 2019

MDMI Travel Award

Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Calgary ($1,500.00)

Jan 2017

Program Award for Thesis Excellence

Faculty of Graduate Studies - Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Program ($1,000.00)

Nov 2016

MDMI Travel Award

Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Calgary ($1,259.45)

July 2016

Cystic Fibrosis Travel Allowance

Cystic Fibrosis Canada Foundation ($750.00)

Dec 2015

First Place Oral Presentation Award (M.Sc. and pre-candidacy Ph.D. section)

Snyder Trainee Research Day, University of Calgary

Nov 2015

MDMI Travel Award

Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Calgary ($1,500.00)

July 2015

Cystic Fibrosis Travel Allowance

Cystic Fibrosis Canada Foundation ($750.00)

Research Experience

May 2019 - Dec 2023

PhD Project

Department of Physiology and Pharmacology - University of Calgary
Supervisors: Dr. Marie-Claire Arrieta and Dr. David Proud
To characterize the ecological and immunoregulatory role of intestinal fungi, I carried out mouse models of microbiome modification in both conventional and gnotobiotic mice. I also coordinated a small clinical study and processed received samples. I obtained an analyzed multi-omics data. I analyzed taxonomic and functional changes in microbial communities from mice and infants receiving antibiotics. I assessed immune functions in different organs and tissues of mice. I expanded my skill set in different microbiology, immunology, and molecular techniques performed in the lab. Data and knowledge obtained was published in four manuscripts, including two literature reviews, one first-author manuscript, and one collaborative research manuscript. I have received several academic and research awards through the program.

Dec 2016 - Apr 2019

Research Assistant

Department of Physiology and Pharmacology - University of Calgary
Employer: Dr. Marie-Claire Arrieta
Part-time placement (Dec 2016 - Jan 2017), followed by full-time employment (Feb 2017 - Apr 2019).
As the first hired member of Arrieta lab, I assisted the Principal Investigator (PI) in building the lab and establishing her research program. My responsibilities included inventory management and performing inspections. I also supervised and trained high-school and undergraduate students in laboratory techniques. I supported visiting researchers and postdoctoral fellows in collaborative research. I participated in different research and clinical projects investigating the role of the intestinal microbiome in the development of immune-mediated and metabolic diseases. I created protocols and submitted applications of ethics permits for human and animal studies. I also wrote scientific reports and a literature review manuscript.

Sept 2014 - Jan 2017

MSc Project

Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases - University of Calgary
Supervisors: Dr. Shawn Lewenza and Dr. Rebekah DeVinney
To characterize the antibiofilm and antivirulence properties of identified exopolysaccharide-inhibitor small molecules against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, I implemented both in vitro and in vivo assays of biofilm formation. Data and knowledge obtained was published in three manuscripts, including a literature review and two original research papers. My thesis was unanimously recommended for the Program Award for Thesis Excellence by the examination committee. Link to published thesis: http://dx.doi.org/10.11575/PRISM/27802

Nov 2015 - Apr 2016

Supervised Research Course (BIOL 607-B08)

Department of Biological Sciences - University of Calgary
Supervisor: Dr. Joe Harrison
To acquire additional transcriptomics data for my M.Sc. project, I performed all molecular steps of sample preparation for whole genome RNA-sequencing in Illumina MiSeq platform (RNA isolation, rRNA depletion, cDNA synthesis, built stranded RNA-seq libraries, performed cluster-density optimization, and ran the Illumina MiSeq). I carried-out statistical analyses of differential expression using EdgeR and DESeq2 platforms in RStudio. I also attended lectures, presented a paper, and completed the web-based bioinformatics assessments for the “Genomics Literacy” component of the Advanced Topics in Molecular Biology (CMMB 637) course. I was graded letter A+ for laboratory work and assignments.

Sept 2012 - Aug 2013

Exchange Program at Cumming School of Medicine

Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases - University of Calgary
Supervisor: Dr. Shawn Lewenza
To obtain additional research experience during my exchange program at the University of Calgary, I registered for research placements through the whole year. Although not a requirement for the Science Without Borders program, I performed research in both Supervised Research Course (MDSC 507 – Fall and Winter semesters) and Summer Research Placement. I led three different mutagenesis and high-throughput gene expression screening projects using Pseudomonas strains. I initiated projects focused on the identification of small molecule exopolysaccharide-gene inhibitors and environmental pollutants biosensor genes. These projects then became central for Dr. Lewenza’s research program. Graded letter A for laboratory work and assignments.

Feb 2011 - Aug 2012

Undergraduate Honors Research Project

Department of Immunology and Microbiology - Unifal-MG, Brazil
Supervisor: Dr. Luiz Felipe Leomil Coelho
To determine the impact of a new prototype vaccine against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, I implemented an immunization protocol in mice and determined the protective antibody titers using ELISA assays. I also stablished a murine model of intranasal challenge and lung infection, using histopathological analysis to scale the inflammation score. The acquired data was included in a manuscript published in Vaccine. Graded letter A+ for honors thesis and project presented.

June 2010 - Dec 2010

Research Project Assistant

Department of Food and Nutrition - Unifal-MG, Brazil
Supervisors: Dr. Luciana Azevedo and Dr. Gislene Regina Fernandes
To obtain scientific training and generate data for my first research project, I trained on food physic-chemical analysis techniques. I generated data that was presented at an undergraduate thesis project course (DF60). I also co-authored the practical manual of lab tests used in the laboratory.

University Community Involvement, Leadership, and Outreach Activities:

Jan 2023 - Aug 2023

Team Captain - Softball Recreational League - Century 21 Bamber Team

Calgary Apollo Softball Association (CASA) LGBTQ2S+ league.
To lead a recreational softball team, I promoted positive attitude and team interactions. I provided a positive role model concerning commitment, confidence, composure, encouragement, and focus. I organized team players for practice sessions and coached through season games. I assessed participants skill levels and provided feedback for optimized performance. I worked closely with the league’s board members for rules compliance, conflict resolution, and supporting league activities.

Dec 2019 - Apr 2023

Events Coordinator

Immunology Graduate Association (IGA) - University of Calgary, Canada
To organize social and academic events and to engage graduate students from the Immunology program, I joined the IGA group in the role of events coordinator. During my mandate I was also responsible for representing the Immunology graduate students in university affairs and with the Graduate Student Association group.

Aug 2022 - Dec 2022

Student Lead, Scholarship Team

Graduate Science Education (GSE) - University of Calgary, Canada
To provide a student perspective to the Scholarships Team I worked directly with the Team’s president, Dr. Rebekah DeVinney, to improve the content of materials provided to graduate students applying for scholarships. I also delivered workshops, provided application support, and organized peer-mentor sessions for Tri-council (M.Sc. and Ph.D.) and the harmonized Graduate Award Competition (GAC) and Cumming School of Medicine (CSM) scholarships applicants. I supported and instructed postdoctoral fellows on review process and how to best advise graduate students during paired mentoring role. I also provided tricks and tips for applying students on how to enhance quality of application material to best appeal to adjudicators. These efforts made the 2022 application round the most successful for number of students seeking support with the GSE program.

May 2017

5th Annual StemCellTalks Symposium

Let’s Talk Science Organization - Calgary, AB, Canada
To obtain souvenirs for participation engagement and awards, I lead the Swag and Giveaway Committee, contacting scientific suppliers for their support in the event. I organized meetings and wrote progress reports to event’s coordinators. To further support the symposium in hands-on stations, I participated in the Demonstration Committee - Developmental Stations, responsible for demonstrating and explaining to attendees the importance of stem cells in the development of some model organisms (i.e. fruit fly, zebrafish, earthworm). This volunteer event was in support of youth development through engagement in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) learning. The event aimed at educating high school students about stem cells (and all its applications) and inspiring them to pursue academic research.

Dec 2014

Magic at Christmas - Loving, Carrying, and Sharing

The Magic of Christmas Charity - Calgary, AB, Canada
To spread Christmas joy and bring presents to impoverished families, I worked alongside organizers to bring toys and the holiday joy to families referred to the program. I filled the ‘Reindeer Buses’ (donated by city of Calgary transit) with the toys donated to the charity and distributed them to the indicated families on Christmas Eve Day.

Nov 2010

Correct Antibiotic Use to Prevent Antimicrobial Resistance (Translated from Portuguese)

Minas Gerais Regional Pharmaceutical Council (CRF-MG) - Alfenas, MG, Brazil
To raise awareness in the Alfenas city population about the correct use of antibiotics, I queried town residents using questionnaires about their antibiotic use and disposal practices. I answered questions and provided resources for individuals for the correct use and disposal of antibiotics (among other medications). This campaign was promoted by the CRF-MG via Federal University of Alfenas (Unifal-MG).

Feb 2010

Comparison of Pharmaceutical Care Questionnaires (Translated from Portuguese)

Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Unifal-MG - Alfenas, MG, Brazil
To obtain data comparing two pharmaceutical care questionnaires, I interviewed and collected data from patients within the Brazilian Public Health Care system. I applied the questionnaires and evaluated applicability and responsiveness of participants. I computed data and presented final report to project supervisor, Dr. Luciene Marques.

Research Mentorship

Tisha Halim (B.Sc. Research Placement - University of Calgary)

Sept 2022 - Apr 2023

Nithya Gopalakrishnan (B.Sc. Research Placement - University of Toronto)

May 2022 - Aug 2022

Ali Javed (B.Sc. Honors Project Student - University of Calgary)

Sept 2020 - Aug 2021

Mackenzie Gutierrez (Co-Op Research Placement - University of British Columbia)

Jan 2019 - Aug 2019

Kaiden Jobin (B.Sc. Research Placement - University of Calgary)

July 2018 - Apr 2019

Shen Yen Tsou (B.Sc. Honors Project Student - University of Calgary)

Sept 2017 - Apr 2018

Joseph Girgis (High School Research Placement - St. James High School)

Sept 2017 - Aug 2018

Haley Jamison (Summer Project Placement - Western University)

May 2017 - Aug 2017

Teaching Experience

Apr 2023

Microbiome Bioinformatic Analysis Workshop

Oswaldo Cruz Institute - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Co-instructors: Emily Mercer (Ph.D. candidate), Mackenzie Gutierrez (Ph.D. candidate), Dr. Mona Parizadeh (Post-doctoral fellow), and Dr. Marie-Claire Arrieta (Principal investigator/supervisor).
To deliver a rich and engaging professionalizing workshop on microbiome bioinformatics analysis, I planned, organized, and administered the teaching material of a 2,5-day in person workshop. Working together with workshop co-instructors, I prepared material and hands-on exercises covering the following topics: “16S rRNA amplicon sequencing”, “Introduction to R and RStudio”, “R syntax”, “DADA2”, “Introduction to Phyloseq and data representation in R”, “Microbiome diversity metrics and representation” (also included statistical analyses), and “DADA2 for 16S vs. ITS”. This was a workshop delivered at a collaborating institute at Fiocruz, funded by a CIHR discovery grant held by supervisor Dr. Arrieta.

Feb 2020 - Mar 2020

Course Instructor - BIOL 325 - Introductory Microbiology

Centre for Science - Athabasca University, Canada
Course instructors: Dr. Lisa Carter and Dr. Shauna Zenteno
To teach the laboratory portion of the Undergraduate Introductory Microbiology Course, I instructed students on basic laboratory techniques. I explained the theory and step-by-step methods for each procedure used to identify or characterize microbes. I was responsible for engaging student’s discussion, support learning, and supervise wet-lab techniques. I organized the exercises and projects through a four-day course (32h total) given 5 times a year. This position was later put on hold due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Mar 2010 - Aug 2010

Teaching Assistant - DCB60 - Parasitology

Department of Parasitology - Unifal-MG, Brazil
Course Instructors: Dr. Raquel M. Souza and Dr. Marcos J. Marques
To ensure students’ full comprehension of the course topics during classes, I led discussion groups and answered any question during classes and office hours. I supported the professors during classes and laboratory preparation.

Additional Relevant Experience

Nov 2020 – May 2021

The CRA Experience Training Program

The Desjardins Centre for Advanced Training (DCAT) - McGill University, Canada
To learn about Regulatory Affairs for Clinical Trials, I attended the CRA Experience professionalizing training program. This was a competitive program with only 14 students selected across all Canadian institutions (only 6 non-McGill students). I completed theoretical learning on drug development, clinical trial design, and regulatory processes relevant to the management and operations of clinical trials. I networked with clinical trials professionals to expand my knowledge of the regulations and practices around clinical research. I was graded 100% for participation and presented Teachback lecture.

July 2018 - Mar 2020

Research Coordinator – ANTIBIO Clinical Study

Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute – University of Calgary, Canada
Clinical study lead by Dr. Marie-Claire Arrieta and Dr. Stephen Freedman
To obtain further in-hands experience with clinical study operations, I supported study design and ethics permit application of a small observational, prospective clinical study. I prepared and distributed standard operations procedure documents and sample kits for clinical staff at the Alberta Children’s Hospital. I performed patient follow ups and recorded medical history and clinical data in the University of Calgary’s Research Electronic Data Capture system (REDCap). I received, inventoried, and processed all clinical samples collected from the patients.

Mar 2016 - Sept 2016

Laboratory Clearance Staff

Snyder Institute - Casual Employment Program - University of Calgary, Canada
Reported to Investigator: Dr. Kamala Patel
To obtain further management experience at the end of my M.Sc. degree, I worked as a Laboratory Clearance Staff for the Snyder Institute. I sorted and created inventory data sheets of chemical products for proper classification and disposal. I inventoried equipment and laboratory supplies for transfer within the departments or disposal. I was responsible for placing service requests and/or overseeing inspections performed by the Hazmat and Environmental Health and Safety Department staff. During this period, I emptied and cleaned laboratory spaces for 5 new PIs to move in.

Mar 2014 - Aug 2014

Curricular Internship

Clinical Analysis Division - Hospital of University of São Paulo, Brazil
To complete curricular internship requirement to finish my B.Pharm. degree, I joined the Clinical Analysis Division in the Hospital of University of São Paulo. I performed rotations in the sectors of sample collection, Parasitology, Microbiology, Immunology, Hematology, and Biochemistry. I processed samples, applied diagnostic tests, analyzed results, evaluated patients’ history, and contacted hospital staff to inform critical and preliminary data for patient care. I was graded 100% for work activities, presented seminar, and final report handed to the Internship in Clinical Analysis Commission from Unifal-MG.

Jan 2012 - Feb 2012

Summer Internship

FARMAVALE - Extemporaneous Formulation Pharmacy, Lorena, Brazil
To obtain optional internship experience during my BPharm degree, I participated in daily activities on the storage and quality control sectors of the FARMAVALE pharmacy. I performed physic-chemical analyses of the purchased compounds, stock solutions, and final formulations. I was responsible for the first and last check of the formulations to ensure the products quality beforehand them to clients. I wrote a descriptive activity report for internship validation at Unifal-MG. I was graded 100% for final report presented.

Science Communication

Dec 2019

Article - Explore UCalgary

Are we born with our diseases? How our microbiomes influence lifelong health
Collaboration with Dr. Marie-Claire Arrieta and M.Sc. student Emily Mercer
To communicate the importance of the microbiome in preventing disease development, I provided information for this article highlighting the microbiome impact on health and how we can better feed our microbes throughout our lives. The article was written by Jennifer Allford, newspaper columnist, and published at Explore UCalgary as open access to inform the population on this important topic.

Dec 2019

Ebook - Explore UCalgary

How to shape a healthy microbiome?
Collaboration with Dr. Marie-Claire Arrieta, Dr. Laura Sycuro, and M.Sc. student Emily Mercer
To disseminate information on how to better feed our microbiome, I contributed with information for an eBook focused on how the gut microbiome influences our health outcomes and provided helpful tips of how to keep our microbiome healthy. Similar to its sibling article, the eBook was published at Explore UCalgary as open access to inform the population on this important topic.

Mar 2017

Q&A section - CF Insights online blog

Questions for Cystic Fibrosis Canada Scholarship Recipient
To communicate the impact of the research funded by the Cystic Fibrosis Canada Studentship, I answered a series of questions regarding my M.Sc. project. The questions and answer (Q&A) section covered the discoveries of my project and its possible impact to the quality of life of patients with Cystic Fibrosis.

Conference and Workshop Speaker

Apr 2023

Microbiome Bioinformatic Analysis Workshop. Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ). Apr 3-5. Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Nov 2022

Graduate Awards Competition and CSM Harmonized Scholarships. Graduate Science Education, Scholarship Team. Nov 18. University of Calgary, Canada.

Oct 2022

CGS-M Tri-Council Masters Scholarships Workshop. Graduate Science Education, Scholarship Team. Oct 14. University of Calgary, Canada.

Sept 2022

Achieving Scholarship Success Workshop. Graduate Science Education, Scholarship Team. Sept 28. University of Calgary, Canada.

Sept 2022

Achieving Scholarship Success Workshop. Graduate Science Education, Scholarship Team. Sept 13. University of Calgary, Canada.

Sept 2022

CGS-D Tri-Council Doctoral Scholarships Workshop. Graduate Science Education, Scholarship Team. Sept 9. University of Calgary, Canada.

July 2022

Antibiotic-Induced Malassezia spp. expansion in infants elicits immune dysregulation and airway inflammation in gnotobiotic mice. 20th International Congress of Mucosal Immunology (ICMI) – Presidential Rising Star Plenary Session. July 20. Seattle, WA, USA.

Nov 2021

Fungi in the microbiome: expanded species following antibiotic use elicits immune changes in mice (Translated from Portuguese). Pharmaceutical Week Symposium Uniesi. Nov 23. Uniesi University Center of Itapira, Brazil (Online presentation).

Academic and Invited Seminars

Nov 2023

The role of intestinal fungi on microbiome ecology, host immune development, and susceptibility to airway inflammation. PhD Exit Seminar. University of Calgary, Canada.

Mar 2023

Antibiotic-induced Malassezia spp. expansion in infants elicits immune dysregulation and airway inflammation in gnotobiotic mice (Zoom presentation). Canadian Fungal Network (CanFunNet) Seminar Series. University of British Columbia (BC), Canada.

Jan 2023

Antibiotic-induced Malassezia spp. expansion in infants elicits immune dysregulation and airway inflammation in gnotobiotic mice. Inflammation Research Network Seminar Series. University of Calgary, Canada.

Apr 2022

Antibiotic-induced Malassezia spp. expansion in infants elicits immune dysregulation and airway inflammation in gnotobiotic mice (Zoom presentation). Microbiome Seminar Series - International Microbiome Center. University of Calgary, Canada.

Jan 2022

Antibiotic-induced Malassezia spp. expansion in infants elicits immune dysregulation and airway inflammation in gnotobiotic mice (Zoom presentation). Snyder Institute Seminar Series. University of Calgary, Canada.

Sept 2021

Antibiotic-induced Malassezia spp. expansion in infants elicits immune dysregulation and airway inflammation in gnotobiotic mice (Zoom presentation). Inflammation Research Network Seminar Series. University of Calgary, Canada.

Mar 2021

Patient Recruitment, Screening & Enrolment (Zoom presentation). CRA Experience Teachback Seminar Series. McGill University Health Centre Research Institute (RI-MUHC), Canada.

Nov 2020

Antibiotic-induced fungal microbiome alterations: From clinical data to mouse models (Zoom presentation). Snyder Institute Seminar Series. University of Calgary, Canada.

Nov 2020

How do gut fungi impact early-life immune development and susceptibility to airway inflammation? Arrieta Lab Retreat 2020. Kananaskis, Canada.

Oct 2020

Antibiotic-induced fungal microbiome alterations: From clinical data to mouse models (Zoom presentation). Inflammation Research Network Seminar Series. University of Calgary, Canada.

June 2019

Contribution of fungal microbiome to intestinal physiology, early-life immune development and inflammation in mice. Microbiome Seminar Series - International Microbiome Center. University of Calgary, Canada.

Mar 2019

Contribution of gut fungi on early-life immune development and airway inflammation. Airway Inflammation Research Group Seminar Series. University of Calgary, Canada.

Jan 2017

Small molecule biofilm inhibitors with antivirulence properties against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. M.Sc. Defense Exit Seminar - Cumming School of Medicine. University of Calgary, Canada.

Apr 2016

Discovery of small-molecule biofilm inhibitors that reduce Pseudomonas aeruginosa virulence in vivo. Snyder Institute Seminar Series. University of Calgary, Canada.

Oct 2015

Graduate student life and Microbiology project (Invited speaker to present my educational history and M.Sc. project in Microbiology). Introductory Microbiology Course (BIOL 325). Athabasca University, Canada.

May 2015

Discovery of small-molecule biofilm inhibitors for use in treating chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm infections. Snyder Institute Seminar Series. University of Calgary, Canada.

Abstracts/Conference Presentations

van Tilburg Bernardes E, Gutierrez MW, Thomson CA, McCoy KD, Freedman SB, Arrieta MC. Antibiotic-Induced Malassezia spp. expansion in infants elicits immune dysregulation and airway inflammation in gnotobiotic mice. Cell Symposia: Infection Biology in the Age of the Microbiome 2023, June 7-9, 2023. Paris, France. Poster presentation.
van Tilburg Bernardes E, Gutierrez MW, Thomson CA, McCoy KD, Freedman SB, Arrieta MC. Antibiotic-Induced Malassezia spp. expansion in infants elicits immune dysregulation and airway inflammation in gnotobiotic mice. International Congress on Academic Medicine (ICAM) 2023, Apr 13-15, 2023. Québec City, QC, Canada. Poster presentation (student nominated from the Immunology Graduate Program to attend the congress).
van Tilburg Bernardes E, Gutierrez MW, Thomson CA, McCoy KD, Freedman SB, Arrieta MC. Antibiotic-Induced Malassezia spp. expansion in infants elicits immune dysregulation and airway inflammation in gnotobiotic mice. Banff Inflammation Workshop (BIW) 2023, Jan 25-29, 2023. Banff, AB, Canada. Poster presentation.
van Tilburg Bernardes E, Gutierrez MW, Thomson CA, McCoy KD, Freedman SB, Arrieta MC. Antibiotic-Induced Malassezia spp. expansion in infants elicits immune dysregulation and airway inflammation in gnotobiotic mice. International Human Microbiome Consortium (IHCM) 9th Congress, Nov 7-9, 2022. Kobe, Japan. Poster presentation.
van Tilburg Bernardes E, Gutierrez MW, Thomson CA, McCoy KD, Freedman SB, Arrieta MC. Antibiotic-Induced Malassezia spp. expansion in infants elicits immune dysregulation and airway inflammation in gnotobiotic mice. 20th International Congress of Mucosal Immunology (ICMI), July 16-20, 2022. Seattle, WA, USA. Oral presentation (abstract selected for the President Rising Star distinction and presented at a plenary section with only four other young investigators).
van Tilburg Bernardes E, Gutierrez MW, Thomson CA, McCoy KD, Freedman SB, Arrieta MC. Antibiotic-Induced Malassezia spp. expansion in infants elicits immune dysregulation and airway inflammation in gnotobiotic mice. Having IMPACTT: Advancing Microbiome Research Symposium, June 2-3, 2022. Canmore, AB, Canada. Poster presentation (awarded second place).
van Tilburg Bernardes E. Antibiotic-Induced Malassezia spp. expansion in infants elicits immune dysregulation and airway inflammation in gnotobiotic mice. Shaffer-Davison Research Awards Day, May 27, 2022. Calgary, AB, Canada. Oral presentation (awarded first place).
van Tilburg Bernardes E, Gutierrez MW, Thomson CA, McCoy KD, Freedman SB, Arrieta MC. Antibiotic-Induced Malassezia spp. expansion in infants elicits immune dysregulation and airway inflammation in gnotobiotic mice. Immunology Research Group Retreat, May 12-13, 2022. Canmore, AB, Canada. Poster presentation.
van Tilburg Bernardes E, Freedman SB, Arrieta MC. Infant antibiotic use alters the fungal mycobiome and induces Malassezia spp. overgrowth. The Microbiome: From Mother to Child (Keystone eSymposia), Jan 18-20, 2021. Silverthorne, CO, USA (Virtual). Poster presentation.
van Tilburg Bernardes E. Intestinal fungi are causally implicated in microbiome assembly and immune development in mice. ACHRI Child Health & Wellness Research Retreat, Nov 30, 2020. Calgary, AB, Canada (Virtual). Oral presentation.
van Tilburg Bernardes E, Freedman SB, Arrieta MC. Infant antibiotic use alters the fungal mycobiome and induces Malassezia sp. overgrowth. Cold Spring Harbor Virtual Microbiome Conference, Oct 20-23, 2020. Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA (Virtual). Poster presentation.
van Tilburg Bernardes E. Early-life fungal colonization impacts microbiome ecology, early-life immune development, and mucosal inflammation in mice. Kananaskis Inflammation Workshop, Jan 25-26, 2020. Banff, AB, Canada. Oral presentation (awarded first place).
van Tilburg Bernardes E, Gutierrez M, Pettersen VK, Laforest-Lapointe I, Jendzjowsky N, McCoy K, Arrieta MC. Contribution of gut fungi to microbiome ecology, early-life immune development, and inflammation in mice. Immunology Group Retreat, Jan 9-10, 2020. Banff, AB, Canada. Poster presentation.
van Tilburg Bernardes E. Fungal colonization impacts microbiome ecology, early-life immune development, and mucosal inflammation in mice. Snyder Institute Trainee Research Day, Dec 11, 2019. Calgary, AB, Canada. Oral presentation (presentation placed third among Ph.D. students and postdoctoral fellows. I was the only pre-candidacy Ph.D. student selected for the oral presentation round).
van Tilburg Bernardes E, Gutierrez M, Laforest-Lapointe I, Jendzjowsky N, McCoy K, Arrieta MC. Fungal colonization impacts microbiome ecology, gut physiology, early-life immune development, and airway inflammation in mice. American Society of Microbiology Microbe 2019 Conference, June 20-24, 2019. San Francisco, CA, USA. Poster presentation.
van Tilburg Bernardes E, Laforest-Lapointe I, Jendzjowsky N, Jamison H, McCoy K, Arrieta MC. Contribution of early-life gut fungal colonization on microbial ecology and host immunity. Keystone Symposia Conference, Mar 10-14, 2019. Montreal, QC, Canada. Poster presentation.
van Tilburg Bernardes E, Laforest-Lapointe I, Jamison H, Tsou SY, McCoy K, Arrieta MC. Intestinal fungi impact the gut bacterial microbiome and elicit host immune changes related to atopy. AllerGen Conference, Jan 27-30, 2019. Toronto, ON, Canada. Poster presentation.
van Tilburg Bernardes E, Laforest-Lapointe I, Jamison H, Tsou SY, McCoy K, Arrieta MC. Early-life gut fungal colonization exacerbates Th2-mediated mucosal and systemic immunity. Keystone Symposia Conference, Mar 4-8, 2018. Banff, AB, Canada. Poster presentation.
van Tilburg Bernardes E, Reading D, Mazenode LS, Zenteno SR, Lewenza S. Identification of small-molecule biofilm inhibitors that reduce Pseudomonas aeruginosa virulence in vivo. Canadian Society of Microbiologists Annual Conference, June 12-15, 2016. Toronto, ON, Canada. Poster presentation.
van Tilburg Bernardes E, Reading D, Mazenode LS, Zenteno SR, Lewenza S. Identification of small-molecule biofilm inhibitors that reduce Pseudomonas aeruginosa virulence in vivo. Banff Conference on Infectious Diseases, June 1-4, 2016. Banff, AB, Canada. Poster presentation.
van Tilburg Bernardes E, Reading D, Mazenod L, Lewenza S. Discovery of small-molecule biofilm inhibitors that reduce Pseudomonas aeruginosa virulence in vivo. Snyder Institute Trainee Research Day - M.Sc. and pre-candidacy Ph.D. section, Dec 8, 2015. Calgary, AB, Canada. Oral presentation (awarded first place).
van Tilburg Bernardes E, Reading D, Mazenode LS, Lewenza S. Discovery of small molecule biofilm inhibitors for use in treating chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections. Parallel Section Symposia - Canadian Society of Microbiologists Annual Conference, June 15-18, 2015. Regina, SK, Canada. Poster and oral presentation.
van Tilburg Bernardes E, Reading D, Lewenza S. Discovery of small molecule biofilm inhibitors for use in treating chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections. Snyder Institute Trainee Research Day, Dec 12th, 2014. Calgary, AB, Canada. Poster presentation.
van Tilburg Bernardes E, Rodrigues NF, Rodrigues MA, Braz da Silva PH, Malaquias LC, Coelho LF. Bovine serum albumin nanoparticle vaccine reduces lung pathology induced by live Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in mice. 11th Latin American Congress of Microbiology, Oct 28-Nov 1, 2012. Santos, SP, Brazil. Poster presentation (poster presented by supervisor Dr. Luiz Felipe Coelho).
van Tilburg Bernardes E, Rodrigues NF, Rodrigues MA, Braz da Silva PH, Malaquias LC, Coelho LF. Histopathological alterations in lungs of Swiss mice infected by the nasal route with Pseudomonas aeruginosa (translated from Portuguese). 4th Scientific Journey of Unifal-MG, Nov 16-18, 2011. Alfenas, MG, Brazil. Poster presentation.