Thao Kim Dao

Graduate Student, The Lambert Lab

You work in a laboratory.  What are you currently researching?

I am currently working on a project about the shell formation of the snail Ilyanassa obsoleta. We are trying to figure out the molecular and cellular mechanisms that control the coiling of Ilyanassa. In addition, since I am in the early phase of graduate school, I am also trying out a few experiments which could potentially lead to my thesis project.

What was it that originally sparked your interest in biology?

This is a difficult question. There is no significant event that drew my interest to biology. Biology has always been my favorite subject since I started learning it. There is always something in biology that sparks my curiosity.  The more I learn, the more it amazes me.

What do you enjoy most about working here at the U of R?

Coming to study at the U of R as an international student, I really appreciate the help and support from everyone here, especially the International office, the biology graduate office and the people in the Department. They help me with paperwork and give me advice that makes my transition here easier. 

What’s the most important thing that you’ve learned working here and/or studying biology?

I have learned to be patient. One interesting thing about biology is that it will not always work out the way we expect it to. Sometimes, it will take some time and effort to get the answers.

How do you unwind when you’re not in the lab?

I usually watch food or cat or Kpop videos. I recently got into gardening. I am trying to grow some sweet potato plants and herbs at home. Let’s see if I can harvest anything!