Chase Reaume’10, Master of Science, Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate Program, Peterborough, ON

“I am grateful for the opportunities and education I received from Trent University.”

Mr. Chase Reaume is the 2013 recipient of the Trent University President’s Medal.  The President’s Medal rewards academic excellence and achievement at the graduate studies level.  Following  Convocation Chase is planning to apply to medical school in the fall.

After completing his B.Sc. in Forensic Science at Trent, Chase decided to remain at the school to complete his Master of Science in the Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate Program.  Throughout his studies he gravitated toward molecular biology and genetics and their use in the study of infectious diseases and other medical issues.

During his Master’s degree  work  he studied the “Beaver Fever”  parasite which plagues millions around the world. He studied the effects of several drugs on the parasite and developed a scientific technique to study the parasite’s growth cycle.  He in turn presented his findings to medical researchers at scientific conferences in Canada.   Chase also worked as a teacher’s assistant in several different courses at Trent.

Throughout his career at Trent, Chase was very honoured and privileged to receive many scholarships and awards.  They provided financial support for his education and research and he feels they showed that his hard work and dedication were recognized.

About Winning the President’s Medal:
I would like to take this opportunity to thank my M.Sc. supervisor, M.Sc. supervisory committee members, members of the Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate program, fellow students and my friends and family for their support and assistance throughout my Master’s education.  The President’s Medal is a great honour, and it would not have been possible without the support of these individuals.

How will you make a difference with your Trent degree?  
Currently, I am preparing to apply to medical school in the fall.  I feel that the experience and skills I have developed at Trent will assist me significantly in my future endeavours.  I hope to build on the education I gained at Trent, use it to develop a career in medicine, and to contribute to the community.

What did you get out of your Trent degree?
During my undergraduate education in forensic science at Trent University, I gained a strong foundation of knowledge in core areas of biology and chemistry.  From these studies, I developed a strong interest in molecular biology and genetics, and more specifically, how these scientific disciplines can be used to study infectious diseases and other medical issues.

I was able to pursue these interests for my Master’s degree by studying the biology of the parasite that causes “Beaver Fever”, a condition that affects millions of individuals throughout the world.  During my graduate research, I studied the effect of several drugs on the growth of this parasite, and developed a technique to study its growth cycle.

Additionally, I was able to attend and present my results at scientific conferences, where I was able to interact with other medical researchers throughout Canada.  These experiences have enhanced my interest and knowledge in these disciplines, and I am grateful for the opportunities and education I received from Trent University.

What is the best thing about studying at Trent?
The best thing about studying at Trent was the opportunity to work closely with professors and staff members while obtaining a first-class education in the sciences.  The collegial atmosphere allowed me to form strong relationships with these individuals, who guided me throughout my studies.

In addition to my academic development, I made many friends at Trent University.  These friendships will continue after my graduation and I am looking forward to reuniting with my friends, colleagues and professors at  future Trent Homecoming events.

Have you changed since you’ve come to Trent?
I feel that I have developed in many aspects since coming to Trent.  I gained a strong foundation of knowledge that will enable me to attain my future goals in medicine.  I was able to contribute to the research in the study of “Beaver Fever”, and to share these results with other scientists.

My work as a teaching assistant allowed me to gain experience in teaching and to improve my communication skills.  The friends I made at Trent come from all parts of the world, and provided me with exposure to other cultures and religions.

Can you give an example of how Trent professors had a special impact?
With Trent being a smaller, more intimate university, the opportunity is there to forge strong relationships with professors.  Throughout my time at Trent, I have always felt comfortable in approaching my professors with questions or to seek advice.  This ability to interact one-to-one with my professors has been extremely valuable in my professional and personal development.

Specifically, my Master’s thesis supervisor, Dr. Janet Yee, has been a significant influence not only on my education, but also on my life as a whole.  She was always there to provide knowledge, support and guidance throughout my degree, and by working with her I have developed a strong work ethic and confidence in my abilities.

Research Interests / Area of Study:
I have a great interest in molecular biology, genetics and medical parasitology.
My Master’s thesis project involved the study of the cell cycle and the analysis of the gene expression of a medically and environmentally significant parasite, Giardia lamblia, which infects freshwater lakes and streams throughout Canada and the world.

Extracurricular activities:
I worked as a teaching assistant in several courses including: Introductory Chemistry, Introductory Molecular Biology, Advanced Molecular Biology, Biotechnology and Genetics.  These work experiences enhanced my teaching and communication skills, and allowed me to help and guide other science students at Trent University.  I also enjoyed working as a volunteer judge at the Peterborough Regional Science Fair.

Awards and Scholarships received at Trent University:
Master’s Degree – M.Sc. at Trent University

• President’s Medal (2013)
• NSERC Alexander Graham Bell Canada Graduate Scholarship (CGS M) (2011-2012)
• David & Joyce Woods Graduate Scholarship (2011)

Undergraduate Degree – B.Sc.F.S. at Trent University

• Lady Eaton College Fellows’ Prize (2009-2010)
• R & R Laboratories Prize in Analytical Chemistry (2009-2010)
• NSERC Undergraduate Student Research Award (2009)
• Dean’s Honour Roll (2006-2010)
• National Renewable Scholarships (2006-2010)
• Roscoe F. Downey Scholarship (2006-2007)