Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto

Congratulations to Dr. Janet Rossant on receiving an honorary doctorate from the University of Toronto.

A longtime member of the Department of Molecular Genetics and University Professor Emerita, Dr. Rossant has helped shape the field of developmental biology through discoveries that advanced our understanding of early mammalian development and stem cell biology.

Beyond her research, she has mentored generations of scientists, championed women in science, and helped build some of Canada’s leading biomedical research institutions.

We join the scientific community in celebrating this well deserved recognition of an extraordinary career dedicated to discovery, leadership, and mentorship.

Shared with permission from MoGen alumna Dr. Sepideh Sheybani, PhD ’23, for Mother’s Day.

“Finishing a PhD while becoming a mother was one of the busiest and most meaningful times of my life.

I wrote most of my thesis during nap times, after bedtime, and late at night when the house was finally quiet. I defended my PhD while my almost 2-year old daughter wandered around “PGCRL” with my mom, completely unaware of how much of that journey she had already been part of.

Not every part of that chapter was finished by the time grad school ended, and some of the work has continued through collaborations. But I have been learning that meaningful science (and meaningful life experiences) do not always follow perfect timelines, and that does not make them any less valuable.

In my thesis acknowledgements, I wrote that my daughter made me want to be a better person every day. That was true then, and it still is now.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms who are growing alongside the people they raise.”

Join us at the Career Development Alumni Symposium to explore career paths in molecular genetics, connect with alumni, and build your network.

📅 June 15, 2026
📍 Schwartz-Reisman Innovation Campus

Keynote | Panel Talks | Roundtables | Reception
📸 Free LinkedIn headshots + career coaching

🔗 Register now (link in bio)

In recognition of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we spoke with Dr. Julie Claycomb, Associate Professor and Vice Chair in the Department of Molecular Genetics at the University of Toronto, about her journey in science and her message for the next generation.

“Go for it.”

For Dr. Claycomb, a career in science did not begin with a single defining moment. It developed gradually from childhood curiosity, time spent outdoors on her family’s farm, and a growing fascination with how living systems work.

Today, her lab studies small RNA biology, gene regulation, fertility, and stress responses, using C. elegans to investigate mechanisms that influence human disease.

As a mentor, she often sees one barrier that holds many young women back.

“One of the things I often encounter with young women is that lack of confidence… My response is always the same. You can do it. Go do the thing.”

Read the full story through the link in our bio.

Thanks to our grad volunteer in representing MoGen at the Temerty Faculty of Medicine Grad Fair!

📢 Thinking about graduate school at the University of Toronto?

Join us for our MSc & PhD in Molecular Genetics Info Session (Online)
🗓️ Tuesday, October 21, 2025
⏰ 12:00 PM EST

Learn more about the program and get guidance on how to put together a strong application.

This is your chance to ask questions and hear directly from the Graduate team at MoGen.

👉 Register through the link in bio

Join us for the MoGen Alumni Coffee Chat Series featuring Dr. Michelle Axford, Clinical Laboratory Director at SickKids.

Date: September 23, 2025

Time: 10:45 AM – 12:00 PM

Location: MSB 4284 (Interactome), University of Toronto

Dr. Axford completed her PhD in the Department of Molecular Genetics at the University of Toronto in 2012. She began her career as a research and development scientist at Luminex Molecular Diagnostics, contributing to the development of the FDA- and Health Canada-approved Respiratory Pathogen Panel. In 2016, she transitioned to SickKids, where she completed a fellowship with the Canadian College of Medical Geneticists and earned certification in Molecular Genetics. She later worked at North York General Hospital before returning to SickKids, where she now serves as one of the Clinical Laboratory Directors in the Genome Diagnostics laboratory. Her current role spans clinical service, education, research, and administration.

This series offers students and trainees the opportunity to connect with alumni, hear about diverse career paths, and ask questions in an informal setting.

Presented by the Molecular Genetics Graduate Student Association.

Grateful to all the alumni who joined us at our 10th Career Development Alumni Symposium! 💼🧬

Over 150 grad students, postdocs, and alumni came together for a packed day of connection, mentorship, and discussions about life after grad school.

From keynote talks to live demo interviews and roundtable chats, the day was packed with real advice and inspiring stories.

One of the most popular new features? Our LinkedIn portrait pop-up, giving attendees a chance to update their profile photos on the spot.

Catch the full recap in our bio.