(they/them) PhD Graduate

bdanis[at]sfu.ca

I am a queer non-binary 4th generation settler whose research focuses on the impacts of contaminants on amphibians, particularly northwestern salamanders, using morphological, histological, and molecular techniques to identify said impacts. I worked on a northwestern salamander developmental atlas and breeding program in addition to supporting fellow lab mates projects during my PhD!

I completed an Hons. BSc in biology at the University of Victoria and initially I really liked birds (still do), but I like amphibians and reptiles a bit more these days. I initially joined the Masters of Environmental Toxicology program (rolled into PhD) as I find toxicology and ecotoxicology have a wholistic perspective and understanding of conservation practices that combine ecology, policy and regulation, industry, socio-economical, community partners, organismal, physiological, cellular, and molecular disciplines in one degree.

I love sharing knowledge between folks in many styles of teaching and mentoring, and I am strongly committed to removing systemic, non-inclusive biases that can at times be inherent in the way work is conducted and information is presented in STEM. I am committed to anti-racist pedagogy and deconstructing colonial ideals and principles perpetuated in research, academia, and society.

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