Over the course of her biochemistry degree, Jolène Gravel’s experiential learning journey has taken her in surprising directions. Driven by a simple desire to understand the science behind how things work, she confirmed her interest in academic research but ultimately decided her true calling was a career in medicine.
Exploring science beyond the classroom
On a co-op placement as a junior policy analyst with Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Canadian Wildlife Service, Jolène researched species at risk and organized scientific information used to support decision-making.
On another co-op placement at La Soyarie Inc., a Quebec-based company specializing in producing tofu and other soy-based foods, she applied her scientific knowledge to food production. She did quality control testing, contributed to product development and learned about the environmental impact of food waste and packaging.
While both experiences broadened her understanding of where a science degree could lead, it was a self-directed research opportunity that would become the defining chapter.
Taking ownership through self-directed research
Through the Individually Created Undergraduate Research Experience (I-CURE) program, an experiential learning opportunity where undergraduate students can design and carry out an independent research project under a professor’s supervision, Jolène was able to lead her own project from start to finish as she earned course credit.
Completed in Professor Jeffrey Keillor’s laboratory under the mentorship of MSc student Francis Roy, the project was inspired in part by questions she’d encountered during her placement at La Soyarie. Jolène set out to investigate a potential solution to plastic waste by developing biodegradable films from soy proteins.
The project focused on using a transglutaminase enzyme from Bacillus subtilis as a molecular “glue” capable of linking soy proteins together to create a plastic-like material.
What seemed straightforward on paper quickly became a lesson in perseverance. For weeks, and then months, Jolène conducted preliminary experiments, optimized protocols, analyzed results and adapted her approach whenever outcomes didn’t match expectations.
The scientific detective: Learning to think like a researcher
Unlike in a traditional lab course with predetermined results, she had to navigate uncertainty.
“I initially thought research was all about finding answers, but I came to realize that it’s about asking the right questions,” she says. “What I enjoyed most was the investigative nature of the work. I loved exploring the literature, testing different hypotheses and interpreting unexpected results. At times, I felt like a scientific detective, with each result offering a new clue and helping guide the next step of the investigation.”
For the first time, Jolène wasn’t simply following a scientific method designed by someone else. She was asking the questions herself, driven by a passion for exploring how soy proteins could be transformed into more biodegradable packaging.
“This experience confirmed my interest in academic research. It helped me realize how much I enjoy environments where I can work independently, ask questions, propose my own ideas and collaborate with others.”
Jolène Gravel
— Biochemistry student in her final year
Claiming first place
Her hard work and dedication were recognized when she presented her research at the I-CURE Research Symposium, where she earned first place among student presenters. The recognition highlighted both the scientific merit of the project and her ability to clearly explain complex research findings to a broader audience.
The confidence and skills she gained through this self-directed research experience naturally led to her next challenge: an honours research project under Keillor’s supervision.
Advancing research through an honours project
Building on her previous research experience, Jolène shifted her focus from sustainable materials to human health. Her honours project examined how natural enzymes can be used to more efficiently attach cancer-fighting drugs to antibodies, which act like guided delivery systems in the body. The goal is to direct treatments toward cancer cells while minimizing their impact on healthy tissues, potentially making therapies safer and more effective.
Together, her I-CURE project and honours research experience transformed her understanding of science. They allowed her to move from learning scientific concepts to actively creating new knowledge while developing the independence, resilience and critical thinking skills that define successful researchers.
Looking ahead: Medicine and research
Today, as she prepares to graduate, Jolène is pursuing her next goal: admission to medical school. Motivated by a desire to help people directly, she hopes to become a doctor, using her scientific background to care for patients.
At the same time, her research experiences have opened up another path she’s equally excited about. If medical school isn’t her immediate next step, she plans to continue conducting research, potentially through graduate studies and, eventually, a PhD, before reapplying.
Whether in a clinic or a lab, Jolène discovered where she thrives: in environments that challenge her to ask questions, seek solutions and make a meaningful difference through science.
Inspired by Jolène’s experience?
Learn more about self-directed courses and integrating research into your academic journey:
- Attend a self-directed course information session
- Explore the I-CURE program, including available research opportunities and application timelines
Through these experiential learning opportunities, you can develop valuable research skills, build meaningful connections with professors and explore topics that matter to you, all while earning academic credit.
