yegBUG Team
David Wishart
Distinguished University Professor
Department of Biological Sciences
Department of Computing Science
Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences
University of Alberta
Distinguished University Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences, Department of Computing Science, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta
David Wishart has been involved in bioinformatics for >40 years. Started Canada's first bioinformatics company (BioTools Inc.) in 1994 in Edmonton. Co-founded the Canadian Bioinformatics Workshops (CBW) in 1999 and has taught with it for >25 years. Launched the first undergraduate bioinformatics program at a Canadian university (UofA) in 2004. Has published >300 peer-reviewed bioinformatics papers.
Tazmeen Gill
Clinical Bioinformatics Graduate
Humber College
University of Alberta
Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO)
Tazmeen Gill holds a Bachelor of Science in Zoology/Animal Biology from the University of Alberta (2017-2021) and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Clinical Bioinformatics from Humber College (2025). She recently completed an internship as a Computational Research Assistant at VIDO's Helmy Lab, where she assisted with a bacterial sequencing pipeline in Nextflow. Tazmeen is proficient in Python, R, Linux, MySQL, MATLAB, and HTML, with expertise in machine learning and single-cell sequencing. Her diverse background includes experience as an Animal Technician and DEI Subcommittee Co-Lead at Charles River Laboratories, and as an Assistant Language Teacher with the Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme in Japan. She has demonstrated commitment to education and community service through roles as a Mini Study Group Mentor in Biochemistry and volunteer work with animal welfare organizations.
Laboratory Manager at the Wishart Lab and published biomedical researcher with five years of research experience at the University of Alberta, specializing in diagnostic technologies and metabolomics. BSc with Specialization in Immunology & Infection and Certificate in Biomedical Research (University of Alberta). Co-first author of a 2026 Journal of Analytical Methods in Chemistry publication on a colorimetric multimetabolite assay for at-home monitoring of metabolic disorders, and co-author of PlasMapper 3.0. Recipient of the 2022 MANA ECM Best Poster Award from the Metabolomics Association of North America.
Dr. Mark Berjanskii is a Research Associate at the University of Alberta, specializing in protein bioinformatics, statistics, NMR metabolomics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. His research focuses on developing and applying computational methods to understand complex biological systems, particularly in the areas of protein structure prediction and metabolomics. He combines expertise in both experimental and computational approaches to advance our understanding of biological processes.
Ayla Chin holds a Bachelor of Science in Conservation Biology from the University of Alberta (2021-2025), with additional coursework at NorQuest College (2020-2021). She completed the edX course "Exercising Leadership: Foundational Principles" and holds certifications in Standard First Aid, CPR, and AED. Ayla demonstrates strong commitment to community service and leadership, serving as an Advisory Committee Member for the City of St. Albert since 2021 and as a Retail Cashier volunteer at LOSECA Thrift Store since 2020. Her skills include project management and leadership, with elementary proficiency in American Sign Language. Through her education in conservation biology and active community involvement, Ayla brings a unique perspective on environmental science and public engagement to the bioinformatics community.
As an Honors Pharmacology student at the University of Alberta, I am deeply passionate about the intersection of drug research, bioinformatics, medicine, and community leadership. My academic journey is complemented by hands-on experience in both healthcare and research environments, from volunteering at Balsam Pharmacy where I supported patients and refined my clinical knowledge.
Biological Sciences and Computing Science student at the University of Alberta and full-stack developer with interests in bioinformatics and health tech. Serves as a yegBUG coordinator.
yegBUG Alumni
Robyn Woudstra
AlumniResearch Assistant
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology
University of Alberta
Robyn is a research assistant at the University of Alberta's Wishart Lab, where she combines her diverse skill set in computing science, bioinformatics, and creative design to contribute to research projects. She received a BSc. in Computing Science with a minor in Bioinformatics from the University of Alberta in 2024, following her earlier education in graphic design and advertising at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology in 2017. Passionate about community engagement and scientific literacy, she holds volunteer positions with a variety of local organizations. Her unique background spanning both technical computing and creative design brings a valuable interdisciplinary perspective to bioinformatics research and education. As Co-Regional Coordinator for CBH Alberta, Robyn plays a key role in advancing bioinformatics training and community building initiatives across the region, helping to bridge the gap between technical expertise and accessible scientific communication.