MacNeil
Laboratory

Nial completed his Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology at the University of Toronto, where he gained an interest in host-microbiota interactions. His research in the MacNeil lab focuses on the impact human microbiota isolates have on neurodegeneration in Alzheimer’s models of C. elegans. He’s particularly interested in Enterobacter isolates from the human gut, and how they impact the regulation of genes that contribute to tau-induced neurodegeneration. Prior to joining the lab, Nial spent his summers as a camp counsellor at the Tim Horton's Children's foundation. 

Sofia completed her Honours Bachelor of Science in Biology at McMaster before pursuing a Master's degree in the Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences. In the MacNeil lab, she is working with C. elegans models of Alzheimer's disease to examine the role of nonsense-mediated decay (NMD) in disease. Outside of the lab, Sofia can be found at a local concert, laughing at comedy podcasts, reading books, and spending time with her family & friends!​​

Raphaela completed her Honours Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology & Genetics CO-OP at McMaster before continuing her studies in the Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences as an MSc student. Her work in the MacNeil lab focuses on investigating the regulation of the SHC-3 adaptor protein in C. elegans. When she is not in the lab, Raphaela can be found trying out food spots around town, reading books, junk journaling, and learning languages!

Liam completed his Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences at the University of Windsor, where he became interested in all things microbiology. His research in the MacNeil lab focuses on investigating the neuroprotective effect of Rothia aeria in an Alzheimer’s disease model of C elegans. When outside the lab, Liam can be found watching whatever sports game is on at the time, thrifting, or playing Pokemon.

Sahib is an MSc student in the Engineering department. He is co-supervised by Dr. Mehdi Morani and Dr. MacNeil. He is working on developing computational solutions to phenotyping worms.