Meet the Team
Photo Gallery
Student Highlights
Connor Johnson
Connor Johnson is a chemical biology Honours graduate with a strong passion for food and flavour chemistry. He plans to pursue a PhD in analytical chemistry at the University of Alberta, with aspirations to build a career in teaching or research. Known affectionately as the “Banana Man” in his final undergraduate year for his research on banana flavouring, Connor blends scientific curiosity with a fun, approachable personality. Outside the lab, he enjoys socializing, gaming, and cooking—always exploring the chemistry behind great food.
Jessica Whitehouse
I’m Jessica Whitehouse and I graduated from TRU in 2025 with a BSc majoring in chemistry and minoring in physics. Outside of school, I enjoy participating in performance arts in the forms of dance, concert band, and choirs. If you don’t see me on the stage, you can find me on the trails, whether it’s hiking in the summer or skiing in the winter. My favourite method of relaxation is reading fantasy novels outdoors, especially by lakes and in forests.
Garrett Grubisa
My name is Garrett Grubisa, I graduated from Thompson Rivers University (TRU) in 2025 with a BSc in environmental chemistry. I’m currently planning to complete my master’s degree at the University of Alberta. Fun fact organic chemistry was my favorite subject during my degree! For my career aspirations I hope to work in the environmental field specializing in water quality. When not in school I enjoy hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, and skiing in the winter!
Jessica Jolicoeur
My name is Jess, and I graduated with an honours in chemical biology from TRU in 2025! My honours thesis involved optimizing the synthesis of a psychoactive prodrug in order to utilize green chemistry and obtain higher yields. I am now off to Lethbridge with my 2 horses (Ginger and Lincoln) and new puppy (yay!) to continue learning and growing as a scholar. In my spare time, I love spending time with animals and I love spending time outdoors!
Andrea Deis
My name is Andie, I’m a Chemical Biology Honours student at Thompson Rivers University. When I’m not on campus studying, I can be found riding my horses and spending time with my friends and family. A fun fact about me is that I love learning new card games, and always have a deck of cards on me!
Manuel Centeno
My name is Manuel Centeno Duque, and I graduated from the Chemical Biology program at TRU. I completed my BSc to work towards my goal of becoming a clinician scientist and professor. I enjoyed the vast opportunities at TRU for hands-on experiences and undergraduate research, and suggest you take advantage of them all! I enjoy spending time with family and friends, playing sports, and staying active.
Aliyah Oyegbola
Aliyah Oyegbola is a Chemical Biology fourth-year student at TRU, with a strong interest in laboratory settings, specially those related to Microbiology research.
Tallis Dixon
Tallis Dixon is a student in the cellular molecular microbial biology at TRU and also follows a minor in chemistry. Tallis likes to go on hikes to see the beautiful scenarios BC has to offer.
Ainsley Barisoff
Ainsley Barisoff is from a small town in the Kootenays and a third-year Chemical Biology Student at TRU. Ainsley recommends to practice a lot to manage Organic Chemistry subject.
Cali Marino
My name is Cali and I am in the Bachelor of Science program with concentration in Biology and Chemistry. My future goal is to pursue a career in Optometry. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, skiing and travelling!
Sourish Rajesh Kanna
Hello!
My name is Sourish Rajesh Kanna, and I’m currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science with a major in Cellular, Molecular, and Microbial Biology at Thompson Rivers University, with a future goal of becoming a physician.
Outside of my studies, I enjoy cycling and hiking around Kamloops, as well as playing the flute and piccolo. I also enjoy drawing and photography, particularly capturing photos of tourist spots during my visits to India.
Anujin Otgonkhishig
Hello, I am Anujin Otgonkhishig.
I’m currently studying Environmental Biology at Thompson Rivers University, with a strong interest in ecology. My long-term goal is to work in the life sciences field, where I can contribute to research that improves the environmental health. Outside of academics, I enjoy traveling, exploring new cultures, playing the piano and spending time in nature.
Elliot Hansford
Hello, I am Elliot Hansford and I am in third year chemical biology, looking to go into dentistry. Outside of school, I like to spend my time working out and skiing. Also, a fun fact about myself is that I did the west coast trail this summer, and I took this picture while I was there.
Emily Fagg
Emily Fagg recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (Co-op) from Thompson Rivers University. During her degree, she completed co-op placements at ALS Metallurgy and New Afton Mine in Kamloops. She also conducted two analytical chemistry research projects and presented her findings at conferences in Kamloops, Vancouver, Ottawa, and Saskatoon. Emily plans to pursue a career in medicine, with interests in pediatrics and dermatology, and is also considering completing a master’s degree. Outside of academics, she enjoys golfing, hiking, and travelling.
