Health education students were introduced to an array of career possibilities in health research during a Career Paths in Health Research: Panel Discussion at UNBC. The event, part of the Health Research Institute (HRI) Seminar Series, brought together a group of UNBC graduates to share their career experiences and offer valuable advice to current students.

Dr. Kendra Furber, Associate Professor in the UBC Northern Medical Program and UNBC Division of Medical Sciences, spearheaded the event with support from HRI manager Leana Garraway. 

“Our goal was to create an event that would help students see the varied careers and paths possible in the health sciences,” explained Furber. “We generally hear a lot of positive feedback from students on interactive sessions such as this one.”

The panel featured a diverse group of professionals with various roles in health research, including Dr. Andrew Giles, Senior Lab Instructor at UNBC; Celia Belamour, Clinical Research Coordinator with Northern Health; Janna Olynick, Data Analyst at Carrier Sekani Family Services; and Vanessa Mitchell, Research Associate at the National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health..

“One of the interesting aspects of the discussion was hearing the panelists reflect on their positive experiences at UNBC,” shared Garraway. “They spoke about how the opportunities for training, mentoring, and employment during their time here made a real difference in shaping their careers.”

Furber also noted the significance of connections in shaping students' futures.

“It was really noteworthy to hear from the panel about the importance of relationships,” said Furber, “and the significance of the collaborative research environment at UNBC.” 

The Career Paths in Health Research panel was co-sponsored by UNBC’s Ignite & Inspire funding to support graduate and undergraduate research training in the health and life sciences.

“My favorite part of the panel was hearing from the other panelists, especially since they were all UNBC grads,” said panelist Giles. “I expect their experiences and advice were particularly valuable to the students and I was very impressed with the guidance that they offered.”

The special event offered students an insightful glimpse into how a health education background can lead to impactful careers in clinical research, data analysis, and beyond.

“It was inspiring to hear how varied careers in health research are, and how often the path to their current careers was not straightforward!,” said Garraway. “Everyone’s story was unique.” 

Missed the panel discussion but want to learn more? A recording of this event can be accessed via the HRI’s YouTube channel.