Unlocking the mysteries of memory
Alessia’s co-op journey dives deep into Alzheimer’s research, making a real impact in neuroscience research.
Alessia Apa’s co-op journey has been a thrilling dive into the world of neuroscience research. The fourth-year Health Sciences student with an option in Aging Studies and a specialization in Health Research, got hands-on experience that’s shaped her future. From running cutting-edge experiments to leading her independent study, co-op helped her build both technical and professional skills and gave her the confidence to pursue graduate studies.
Alessia's co-op journey
Work terms one, two, three and four: Alessia worked in the , supervised by Dr. Isabelle Aubert at . The lab uses novel technology to non-invasively target therapies to specific brain locations affected by Alzheimer’s disease, without damaging tissue. Alessia’s primary responsibility was to support different projects across the team, under the guidance of research associate Dr. Laura Vecchio and PhD candidate Kate Noseworthy. As she continued to return to Aubert Lab, her responsibilities grew. She took on a more active role in projects and collaborated on key experiments for grant proposals and research publications. In her third and fourth terms, she led an independent study.
Q&A with Alessia
Photo credit: Kevin Van Paassen at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
What has been the most rewarding thing about co-op?
“The most rewarding part of my co-op experience has been gaining hands-on research experience, which has played a major role in shaping my career goals. Before starting my co-op terms, I was uncertain about the career paths available to me after graduation.”
“Being immersed in a lab environment gave me the chance to explore what research is really like beyond what you learn in a classroom.”
“Getting involved in meaningful projects, working with advanced equipment and contributing to impactful studies helped me discover a genuine passion for neurodegenerative research. Co-op has given me the confidence to pursue graduate studies in neuroscience and to continue engaging in research that can have a meaningful impact on patient lives.”
What is the most interesting thing you've done while on a work term?
“The most interesting thing I’ve done during my work terms has been conducting experiments using focused ultrasound (FUS). This technique, guided by magnetic resonance imaging, allows us to non-invasively deliver targeted acoustic energy to precise regions of the brain. When combined with an intravenous injection of lipid-coated microbubbles, FUS can safely and temporarily modulate the blood-brain barrier, which is otherwise a major obstacle in delivering therapeutics for neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s disease.”
“Being directly involved in these experiments was not only technically fascinating but also incredibly rewarding. I had the opportunity to work hands-on with cutting-edge technology that is continuously being developed at Sunnybrook.”
“This has been incredibly fulfilling, as it has allowed me to contribute to projects that could transform how we understand and treat brain disorders. It is exciting to be at the intersection of biological science, technology and medicine in such a concrete and impactful way.”
How has co-op helped you with your career goals?
“Co-op has been invaluable in shaping and developing my career goals. Having the opportunity to step into a research environment allowed me to explore the day-to-day realities of working in a lab, build hands-on experience and gain confidence in my skills.”
“Throughout my co-op terms, I discovered a genuine passion for research, particularly in neuroscience and public health. I realized how rewarding it is to contribute to work that has the potential to impact people’s lives.”
Photo credit: Kevin Van Paassen at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
What skills have you developed from your co-op experiences?
“During my co-op terms, I gained skills in tissue sectioning, immunohistochemical staining and protein analysis techniques, which allowed me to contribute directly to ongoing projects focused on brain health.”
“I also had the opportunity to work with state-of-the art equipment such as the FUS system and a Leica STELLARIS microscope. These experiences have given me insights into how high-tech tools are used to explore the brain at a cellular level.”
“In addition to technical skills, co-op allowed me the opportunity to develop my professional skills including time management, communication and the ability to adapt quickly in a fast-paced research environment.”
Photo credit: Kevin Van Paassen at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
How have you dealt with stress over the course of your co-op terms?
“While co-op terms can be stressful at times, I’ve learned that effective time management is key to making the most of the experience. I like to plan my experiments carefully and allocate dedicated time for desk work, professional development coursework and other tasks.”
“This helps me stay organized and ensures I can meet deadlines without feeling overwhelmed. I also make sure to set aside time for myself outside of work to recharge, which helps me maintain a healthy work-life balance.”
What’s next for you?
“After finishing my final co-op term in August 2025, I will return to campus to complete my last two academic terms. During this time, I’ll be working on an honours thesis under the supervision of Dr. Elena Neiterman in the School of Public Health Sciences.”
“I also plan to stay involved with ongoing projects in the Aubert Lab and hope to pursue a master’s degree following graduation.”