x-Labs is a unique outreach initiative that brings together high school students from AMDSB and TVDSB with university researchers and laboratories, fostering mentorship, academic exploration, and exposure to cutting-edge technologies. With a focus on reaching students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, the program supports learners on their path to post-secondary success in biomedical sciences and related fields.
This year’s cohort included 21 students, with 11 from AMDSB, supported by teaching staff Tamsyn Green (TVDSB), Reid Lenders (TVDSB), and Laura Cressman (AMDSB), who collectively bring 49 years of science teaching experience to the program.
Students were placed in active research labs across a range of disciplines, where they conducted hands-on experiments, explored career pathways in the health sciences, and collaborated with graduate students and professional researchers.
“I feel honoured to be able to work in a lab where I can help and do research,” said Yug P, an SDSS student working in the Gut Physiology Lab. “There are over 500 million people who suffer from Type 2 Diabetes, so I want to help in any way possible to find better treatments… It was a great learning experience—much different than high school.”
“This has been an amazing experience,” added Aanya A (LDSS), who worked in Microbiology & Immunology. “Being part of a lab and working with other graduate students, developing social interaction, and learning how to come back after failure—it’s been incredibly rewarding.”
Students tackled advanced research topics such as:
- Auditory Biophysics, studying hearing mechanisms
- Molecular Imaging and Medical Biophysics – MRI
- Genotyping PCR, Immunofluorescence Microscopy
- Cell Biology & Placental Development
- Biochemistry & Structural Biology
“A lot of what I’ve learned is new… my lab associates were very helpful,” said Chloe M (FEMSS). “They explained everything and encouraged me to ask questions. I’m planning to explore Med Sci or Nursing.”
For Natalie S (SHDHS), staying on campus was a highlight: “Definitely getting that university feeling, just to prepare me for next year.”
“You age, your ventricles widen, and the enlargement is due to the build-up of cerebrospinal fluid,” explained Jackie M (LDSS) while reflecting on her MRI-focused project. “That pressure can cause things like movement issues—it was fascinating to explore this using AI imaging software.”
This collaborative initiative between Avon Maitland DSB, Thames Valley DSB, and Western University exemplifies how strong partnerships and experiential learning can spark student curiosity and confidence while preparing the next generation of researchers and healthcare professionals.