Assistant Professor
Department of Plant Science - McGill University

I joined McGill University as an Assistant Professor in the Fall of 2020. I obtained my PhD from Western University (2010-2015), studying soybean isoflavonoid biosynthesis. I conducted postdoctoral research at the University of Calgary on opium poppy (2015-2018) and at Brock University on Madagascar periwinkle (2018-2020). I am Senior Director of the Canadian Society of Plant Biologists (CSPB) and a member of the Phytochemical Society of North America (PSNA), the Centre de Recherche Biologie Structurale (CRBS), and the Centre SEVE.

Postdoctoral Fellow - Enzymology

I received my Ph.D. in Plant Science at McGill University (2023). During my graduate work, I focused on identifying the molecular basis of interaction between plants and rhizobacteria. I have identified the role of organic acids and their associated genes in the recruitment of beneficial bacteria. In the Dastmalchi lab, I am excited to conduct bioinformatics and protein expression analyses to identify plant-derived compounds which can enhance pesticide efficiency. Outside the lab, I enjoy exploring the outdoors, playing sports, and cooking.

Ph.D. Candidate - Plant Biochemistry

I completed my Bachelor's in Honours Biology at McMaster University (2021), where I developed a strong interest in plant science. Throughout my undergraduate studies, I pursued my passion for sustainable agriculture and tackling food security through biotechnology research. I transferred from a MSc to a PhD in the Winter of 2022 in Dr. Dastmalchi's lab to continue my work on the medicinal plant Catharanthus roseus.Outside of the lab, I enjoy playing a variety of sports and spending time exploring the outdoors!

Ph.D. Candidate - Metabolomics & Strain Engineering

I recently completed my BSc/MSc at Queen’s University studying plant stress biology with a focus on post-translational (phosphorylation) regulation of metabolic enzymes. During this research, I became fascinated by synthetic biology efforts in the ag-biotech sector. As I join the Dastmalchi lab, I am excited to pivot towards this booming and crucial field. When I’m not conducting experiments, I enjoy participating in Science Communication outreach initiatives, through CSPB and other opportunities. In my free time, I love being down by the water, salsa dancing and traveling (ideally doing all three at same time in Colombia)! 

Ph.D. Student - Protein Characterization

I am joining the Dastmalchi lab after completing my MSc at Western University (2024), where I focused on characterizing monooxygenases involved in plant secondary metabolism. My interest in plant research began during an undergraduate course on medicinal plant biochemistry. I was extremely fascinated by the diverse range of specialized metabolites that plants produce - many of which can interact with mammalian receptors. As I start working with Dr. Dastmalchi’s team, I look forward to contributing to the study of alkaloid biosynthesis in Catharanthus roseus. When I am not in lab, I enjoy hiking (especially in the Fall). I am also an avid lover of all documentaries, books and podcasts. If you’re ever looking for recommendations, just let me know!

B.Sc. Volunteer - Summer 2025

I am a U3 Life Sciences student majoring in Physiology at McGill. Through my coursework, I’ve developed a strong interest in molecular biology and experimental techniques. I’m especially drawn to the hands-on side of research, and volunteering in the Dastmalchi Lab allows me to continue building these skills. My hobbies outside of school include discovering new music, biking, and watching movies. 

B.Sc. Volunteer - Summer 2025

I am a second-year Environmental Biology student specializing in Wildlife Biology. Since my first semester at McGill, I have gotten to take a few plant classes, which sparked my interest in learning about the growth and development mechanisms of various plants. Throughout my summer at the Dastmalchi Lab, I look forward to learning more about lab work and gaining more insight into the function of plants. Outside of school, I love to play the piano, read, and go on hikes!