PRiME Alumni
Learn about the former members of PRiME and where they are now
Lamisa Mizan, Student Associate
Lamisa was formerly a student associate of PRiME whilst working on her PhD in Molecular Genetics. Her research focuses on chromatin organization in human embryonic stem cells, and employs a variety of genomic and proteomic approaches. During her graduate studies, Lamisa has become interested in the commercial implications of discoveries, and is passionate about driving innovation from academia. Prior to joining PRiME, she worked as a 2022 Fellow at Amplitude Ventures, exploring science-powered venture creation and due diligence. As a PRiME associate, Lamisa supported researchers with commercialization strategies and market landscaping. After her time with PRiME, Lamisa joined Flagship Pioneering for their summer fellowship program where she will apply her commercialization experience in the entrepreneurial program.
Allan Tran, Student Associate
Allan was formerly a student associate for PRiME whilst working on his Ph.D. in health economics at the UofT’s Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation (IHPME) in the Dalla Lana School of Public Health. His doctoral research focuses on examining the economics of, and inequalities in mental healthcare access and utilization among low-income youth in Canada and India. In 2018, Allan joined IHPME as a Research Associate; here, he led two successful projects including a publication on the history and utility of the emergency use authorization of pharmaceuticals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Subsequently, he has taken on various roles as a graduate intern in the biotechnology industry (ATGen/NKMax Canada Inc.) and pharmaceuticals (Novartis Canada Inc.), focused on both R&D and market access, respectively. At PRiME, Allan utilized his interdisciplinary background and training to facilitate the commercialization of novel health technologies at UofT.
Alaa Alsaafin, Student Associate
Alaa was formerly a student associate for PRiME whilst working on her PhD in the Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, studying associations between genetic variants and drug (e.g. cigarettes and alcohol) use initiation, escalation, and cessation. As the second part of her activities as a PRiME Associate, Alaa was placed with Professor Milica Radisic at the Centre for Research and Applications in Fluidic Technologies (CRAFT).
Outside the lab, Alaa is the President of the Life Sciences Career Development Society (LSCDS) and of the Pharmacology Graduate Students Association (PGSA). She is also one of the Co-Founders of the Mental health INternationally Delivering Support (MINDS) 2021 Conference and was the Co-Team Lead for the Life Sciences Career Expo (LSCE) 2021.
Adithya Shankara Subramanian, Student Associate
Adithya was formerly a student associate for PRiME whilst working on his PhD in the Department of Biochemistry, studying the mechanisms involved in bacterial biofilm formation. He is also pursuing his CFA and aims to combine his expertise in science and finance to pursue a career in equity research.
Following his time with PRiME, Adithya was accepted into the Lumira Ventures - Venture Innovation Program (VIP).
Outside the lab, he enjoys mentoring high school & undergraduate students and was a teaching assistant at the University of Toronto.
Mickael Dang, Student Associate
Mickael Dang was formerly a student associate for PRiME whilst working on his PhD in the Shoichet Lab at the University of Toronto, where he pioneered innovative strategies for the treatment of glaucoma. With an unwavering curiosity and passion for translating bench research into practical, market-ready bedside care solutions, he has made meaningful contributions in both the academic and entrepreneurial spheres.
Outside the lab, Mickael manages Synakis, a company he co-founded to address the unmet need for innovative vitreous substitutes in retinal surgery. Synakis is committed to improving patient outcomes by developing a unique hydrogel biomaterial tailored for ocular use.
Sina Fatehi, Business Associate
Sina Fatehi was formerly a Business Associate at PRiME whilst pursuing his PhD in the Molecular Genetics program at the University of Toronto, aiming to develop novel therapeutic strategies to treat rare genetic disorders. With his current work in genome editing-based therapeutics, Sina is striving to develop approaches that could have a significant impact on precision child health.
Ying Shan Ma, Business Associate
Ying Shan Ma was formerly a Business Associate at PRiME whilst pursuing her PhD candidate in Polymers and Materials Chemistry at the UTSG, conducting research in designer materials for biomedical applications and environmental sustainability. Majority of her studies develop nanomaterials for the repair and regeneration of degenerative knee joints (osteoarthritis).
Naz Savranoglu, Science Communications Associate
Naz Savranoglu was formerly a Science Communications Associate at PRiME whilst completing her Bachelor's degree in Chemistry and Economics at the University of Toronto. With her passion for organic and biological chemistry, Naz wants to pursue a career in the pharmaceutical industry that merges scientific expertise with strategic business acumen, fostering innovation and entrepreneurial success.
Sabina Islamova, Science Communications Associate
Sabina Islamova was formerly a Science Communications Associate at PRiME whilst completing her Bachelor’s degree specializing in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology at the University of Toronto. Passionate about the intersection of biotechnology and medical research, she is driven by a desire to advance healthcare through innovative solutions. With a keen interest in exploring new frontiers in biotechnology, Sabina hopes to contribute to medical advancements that improve patient outcomes in the future.