Nhien Dinh is a 2025 Canada Student Merit Award winner. She achieved this award for obtaining the highest standing of her class in the fourth and final year of her degree. Here is a brief biography of the winner.
I love what I'm studying and am always looking for opportunities to expand my science repertoire.
I started my research experience in second year at the Kraatz lab doing research in organic chemistry, working on synthesising peptide hydrogels, with wonderful mentorship from Tsuimy Shao and Sukriti Kothari. I then went to Sanofi to pursue a 1-year internship in the Manufacturing Sciences and Analytical Technology department, working at the intersection of biology, chemistry and engineering. I returned to school doing a supervised research project developing Inorganic Chemistry experiments for undergraduate courses with Dr. Alen Hadzovic. Currently, I am doing a full-time summer fellowship in pandemic/virology research at the Guzzo lab, under supportive and dedicated guidance of Dr. Christina Guzzo and Claire Fernandes. I’m also a co-founder at Osteo360 - a preventative health start-up as part of UofT Hatchery.
Beyond academics, I'm passionate about creating engaging and inclusive experiences for the campus community. I've helped host intercultural events through my work at the International Student Centre and organised academic events and workshops as part of the Chemistry Society. As the VP of Events for Best Buddies, I develop programmes that empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to form meaningful friendships with their peers. Additionally, I serve as a coordinator for Let’s Talk Science, where I’m committed to leading science outreach initiatives for youth across the GTA.
I've had the privilege of learning from many knowledgeable individuals and immersing myself in a wide range of research, academic and extracurricular experiences, all of which have significantly contributed to my personal and professional growth, and continue to shape the way I engage with the world around me.
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