Graduate and Postdoctoral
Related Links
Alumni
Jennifer Coats
Graduate Diploma Program, 2022
Why did you choose the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Graduate Diploma program?
Throughout my undergraduate degree, I became very interested in the field of pathology and I was excited to pursue graduate school in this discipline. This program provided a smooth transition between my undergraduate degree and graduate school while providing numerous opportunities to try new things and enhance my research skills. I chose this program because it allowed me to work on a project I was passionate about, helped me acquire new skills, and provided me with the opportunity to work toward my future goals.
How has the program benefited your experiences, learning and future goals?
This program allowed me to conduct meaningful research in a field I enjoyed while learning from researchers in different areas of expertise. This program permitted independent study and supported exploring new things, which allowed me to hone in on my interests and engage in a continuous learning process. Furthermore, I learned how to draft a manuscript for my research project, and I was able to present my research at Western’s Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Research Day, both of which were invaluable learning experiences. The graduate diploma program benefited my future goal of becoming a pathologists’ assistant as I was given the opportunity to analyze hundreds of lung cancer cases, work both independently and collaboratively with members in my lab, and think critically about my research and directions it could head in. Furthermore, this program gave me time outside of school to engage in other interests, which further benefited my experience at Western.
What did you research, and what excited you most about your research?
My research investigated how the number of tumor cells and percent tumor cellularity varies across resected lung cancer cases. We used a bioimage analysis software called QuPath to perform a total cell detection on digital slides collected from The Cancer Genome Atlas. Our goal was to provide insight into which region of the tumor is the most preferable target for biopsies. Core needle biopsies are routinely used for the diagnosis of lung cancer, and obtaining biopsies that contain an accurate representation of the tumor and a sufficient number of tumor cells is important for molecular testing and histologic diagnosis. I enjoyed looking at such a wide variety of lung cancer cases while working alongside individuals from different research backgrounds with a variety of specialties. I am very excited to continue this research during my upcoming Master’s research project.
Outside of the program, what are some extracurricular activities in which you participated?
Outside of school, I enjoyed playing board games with friends, going on bike rides, and attending virtual gross rounds hosted by Mount Sinai Hospital.
What are you currently doing?
I am currently pursuing a Master of Clinical Sciences, Pathologists’ Assistant degree at Western University.
