If you look around the Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre at the BC Cancer Agency, it’s clear that the average scientist is young enough to still keep in touch with their high school science teacher. So it’s pretty likely that Will Turk, a Canada Wide Science Fair 2002 gold medal winner, will fit right in during his day-long visit to the Centre today.
Turk, 15, is a Winnipeg high school student whose project – Gene expression during mouse eye development – won a top award sponsored by Genome Canada at the Canada Wide Science Fair in May. As part of his prize, Turk was invited to spend a day at one of Canada’s most prestigious genomics research facilities. The GSC is the only genomics facility in Canada devoted to the study of cancer.
"I hope that by visiting the Genome Sciences Centre, I’ll get a better understanding of the vastness of genetic projects," says Turk. "I have never done something like this before. In fact, the best I ever did previously was a silver medal at a local science fair, so I was pretty excited just to go to the Canada Wide Science Fair!"
Throughout the day, Turk will get an overview of the process and work involved in gene profiling from some of Canada’s top scientists, many who average around 26 years of age. He’ll learn about DNA fingerprinting, gene sequencing, cancer genetics, functional genomics, gene expression, and bioinformatics.
"The GSC is a state-of-the-art world class facility, so it’s quite appropriate for Will to learn more about genomics at our lab," says Dr. Marco Marra, director of the Genome Sciences Centre. "We really strive to encourage scientific talent, so we’re thrilled to show him the opportunities available in genetic research."
It’s important to provide unique opportunities for young scientists to learn, meet their future colleagues, and to foster a spirit of discover, says Dr. Alan Winter, president and CEO of Genome British Columbia.
"Indeed, to be among the world-leaders in genomics research, it is critical Canada and BC invest in the next generation of scientists," says Dr. Winter. "We are pleased to welcome Will to Vancouver."