Celebrating Women in Science at Western Research Parks 2025
Celebrating Women in Science at
Western Research Parks for International
Day of Women & Girls in Science 2025
Western Research Parks for International
Day of Women & Girls in Science 2025
At Western Research Parks, we are proud to celebrate and support the remarkable women across our innovation district. In recognition of International Day of Women and Girls in Science on February 11, 2025, we are highlighting some of the scientists, innovators, and leaders who are shaping the future of research and industry.
Science and technology thrive when diverse voices contribute. The women in our community are leading advancements in biotechnology, materials science, healthcare, and more—driving innovation and inspiring the next generation of women in STEM.
While this is just a glimpse into the many women making an impact across our community, we are excited to share their stories and celebrate their contributions to research and innovation.
Women Across Our Innovation District
Kamalpreet Kaur, Materials Analyst at AMTEL
What inspired you to pursue science?
“I pursued science because it fuels my curiosity, allows me to innovate, and gives me the opportunity to collaborate with brilliant minds to solve real-world challenges.”
About AMTEL:
Advanced Mineral Technology Laboratory (AMTEL) is an analytical laboratory specializing in mineralogical services across ore and process mineralogy, process optimization, and environmental studies—supporting industries in sustainable resource management.
Najla Guthrie, Founder and CIO at ATMA CENA Ontario Clinics,
CEO at CannaLabs
What inspired you to pursue science?
“I was inspired by science’s ability to transform lives through innovation and discovery. What drives me is the opportunity to bridge research and real-world solutions—whether it’s developing groundbreaking nutraceuticals or advancing psychedelic-assisted therapies to change how we approach mental health.”
About ATMA CENA & CannaLabs:
ATMA CENA provides integrative health and psychedelic-assisted therapy, advancing mental health treatments for conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
CannaLabs is a Health Canada-licensed analytical testing laboratory serving the cannabis, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical industries.
Ashleigh Levesque, Clinical Operations Manager – Ontario at ATMA CENA
What inspired you to pursue science?
“I am a woman in science because I’m drawn to the beauty of the unknown. Psychedelic therapy bridges neuroscience and human experience, revealing hidden depths of the mind. Only through exploration on both accounts, guided by research and infinite curiosity, do we uncover what was always there, waiting to be seen”
About ATMA CENA:
ATMA CENA provides integrative health and psychedelic-assisted therapy, advancing mental health treatments for conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
Delaney Smith, Manager of Data Science and Research at Deep Breathe
What inspired you to pursue science?
“Since I was a kid, I loved solving puzzles and thinking outside the box—so discovering that math and technology could transform healthcare felt like the perfect way to turn my interests into impact.”
About Deep Breathe:
Deep Breathe is revolutionizing lung diagnostics by combining AI-driven technology with portable ultrasound imaging for real-time, autonomous assessments.
Victoria Kobzar, QM, Chemist at LCS Laboratory Inc.
What inspired you to pursue science?
“I’m inspired to pursue science because I want to contribute to a world where quality thrives. Science allows me to be an active part of making that happen!”
About LCS Laboratory Inc.:
LCS Laboratory Inc. provides extensive chemical analysis services, helping organizations assess and manage chemical exposure, ensuring regulatory compliance and workplace safety.
Mackenzie Bell, Production Technician at LifeLike BioTissue
What inspired you to pursue science?
“I studied biotechnology because I have always been fascinated by learning how the world around me functions!”
About LifeLike BioTissue:
LifeLike BioTissue develops realistic surgical simulators using proprietary hydrogel technology, enhancing the quality and accessibility of surgical skills training.
Women of PolyAnalytik
PolyAnalytik, based at Western Research Parks, is a leader in polymer characterization, providing expert analytical and regulatory approval support through contract analysis, method development, and validation services. Their work supports industries including petrochemicals, polymers/plastics, pharmaceuticals, and research institutions.
We are proud to highlight the women at PolyAnalytik who contribute to advancing analytical science and regulatory excellence:
(In order from left to right in the picture)
Maia Williams, Research Assistant at PolyAnalytik
What inspired you to pursue science?
“I have always enjoyed knowing the details of how something works and science gives me the opportunity to explore.”
Serina Foslett, Research Scientist I at PolyAnalytik
What inspired you to pursue science?
“I pursued science to satisfy my curiosity and make a meaningful impact on the future.”
Zhanna Potetinova, Senior Scientist-LCMS Specialist at PolyAnalytik
What inspired you to pursue science?
“Dealing with research is a great opportunity to contribute to the progress and biotechnological innovations that improve the quality of human lives in different aspects while using scientific knowledge, experimental skills, and creativity.”
Anh Phan, Chemical Technician at PolyAnalytik
What inspired you to pursue science?
“Science has been my greatest passion science childhood, and the opportunity to work alongside fellow researchers at PolyChrom and PolyAnalytik feels like a dream come true.”
Sareeha Shamsuddin, Lab Manager/ Quality Supervisor at PolyAnalytik
What inspired you to pursue science?
“Science has allowed me to be impactful and contribute to sectors like Life Sciences and Biotechnology while constantly challenging me to grow in the process.”
Solmaz Karamdoust, Director of Analytical Services and Research at PolyAnalytik
What inspired you to pursue science?
“My motivation for pursuing science is driven my passion for contributing to societal progress and making a positive impact by offering innovative solutions to global challenges, particularly in the Life Science sector. What I love about my current role is that it allows me to tackle meaningful challenges that drive advancements in medical devices and improve patient outcomes.”
Sofia Filman, Research Assistant-Intern at PolyAnalytik
What inspired you to pursue science?
“I chose to pursue science because it gives me an opportunity to continuously learn and hopefully one day contribute to innovative ideas and technologies.”
Olivia Peicheff, Research Assistant at PolyAnalytik
What inspired you to pursue science?
“I like working in science because it allows me to expand my knowledge in interesting areas that I do not get exposed to in my daily life.”
Women of Surface Science Western (SSW)
Located within Western Research Parks, Surface Science Western (SSW) is Canada’s premier surface analysis and materials characterization facility. Known for its expertise, quality, and timely service, SSW supports thousands of clients across various industries—from small manufacturers to large corporations.
We are proud to feature the women at SSW who play a key role in driving innovation in surface science and materials characterization:
(In order from left to right in the picture)
Cathy Jiang, Financial Officer at SSW
Why do you love your job in science?
“I am very proud to be a financial officer in the Faculty of Science. By handling budgets and ensuring funds are used wisely, I help researchers and educators focus on their scientific work and keep everything running smoothly.”
Maja Radisic Hoang, Science Intern at SSW
What inspired you to pursue science?
“I chose science because I love learning about the environment and understanding our role within it. Working at SSW allows me to collaborate and solve different science problems every day.”
Becky Sarazen, Research Scientist and Quality Manager at SSW
What inspired you to pursue science?
“I was on the Science Olympics Team in High School and we won the Compound Boggle competition. I love the day-to-day variety that we have in our jobs at Surface Science Western, I’m always learning something new.”
Baian Almusned, Research Scientist at SSW
What inspired you to pursue science?
“I decided to pursue science because of my deep curiosity about how chemistry shapes the world and my passion for tackling complex challenges that can improve lives and shape the future. That’s why I love my job at Surface Science Western!”
Dr. Carolyn Hill-Svehla, Research Scientist at SSW
What inspired you to pursue science?
“I’ve had a lifelong love of science and nature and enjoy the challenge of unraveling Earth’s mysteries – it’s like piecing together an intricate puzzle! I love the day-to-day variety of work at SSW, learning new things, and helping to solve important problems.”
Heather Bloomfield, Senior Research Scientist at SSW
Why do you love your job in science?
“I truly enjoy my role at Surface Science Western because every day brings new challenges and opportunities for growth. I enjoy solving complex problems, and I’m fortunate to collaborate with an incredible team that makes the experience even more rewarding.”
Nina Kozikowski, Research Technologist at SSW
What inspired you to pursue science?
“I have always enjoyed the collaborative aspect of science, staying up to date with research, and continuously expanding my knowledge within the field. At Surface Science Western, we encompass all these strengths to drive meaningful change and solve a variety of challenges.”
Fostering a Supportive Innovation Community
Western Research Parks is committed to creating an environment where women in science can thrive. By fostering collaboration between academia and industry, supporting groundbreaking research, and championing equity in STEM, we continue to build a community that drives meaningful impact.
As we celebrate International Day of Women & Girls in Science, we recognize that diversity in science leads to stronger innovation, new discoveries, and a better future for all.
Learn more about our innovative business community, cutting-edge facilities, and how we are driving progress and shaping the future at Western Research Parks.