Shefali Rai

Biography

About me

I am a PhD Neuroscience student with Dr. Signe Bray (http://brayneuroimaginglab.ca). I am from Calgary and completed my Bachelor of Applied Science in Chemical Engineering from the University of Waterloo.

My research

I previously worked on neuroimaging techniques with Dr. Jeff Dunn at the University of Calgary. Through this experience and my previous work with youth in a non-for-profit, I pursued my masters with Dr. Bray. My research uses novel fMRI methodologies to determine unique functional network traits in typically developing children.

BRAIN CREATE program aspirations

Through the BRAIN CREATE program, I hope to be part of academic exchanges and expeditions to further advance my knowledge and collaborate with renowned neuroscientists. I am also keen to discover new opportunities after my program is completed, such as industry placements and other unexplored career avenues for researchers.

Commercialization

Each child is unique, and their brains are unique as well. The primary goal of my research project is to develop precise fMRI methods for paediatric imaging. My work is focused on developing a novel template/algorithm that can create individual centred brain maps of typically developing children. This project can be commercialized for precision medicine applications and may also aid in developing a future biomarker or therapeutic tool. 

Awards

Alberta Graduate Excellence Scholarship (AGES)

NSERC BRAIN CREATE Graduate Scholarship