In the vibrant academic corridors of McMaster University, Olivia Chung stands out as a promising undergraduate researcher in the Honors Bachelor of Health Sciences program. Recently awarded at Anatomy Connected '24 for her outstanding scientific poster, Olivia's journey is a testament to her dedication and innovative approach to anatomy research.
Olivia's academic journey is characterized by a proactive pursuit of knowledge, highlighted by her initiation into research through cold emailing professors after her first year. Her interest in anatomy was piqued by a potential role in prosection, but it was redirected towards research by Dr. Bruce Wainman, the director of the McMaster Education Program in Anatomy and Surgical Skills Center. This change in direction led her to the Spine Study project that would later form the basis of her award-winning poster.
Lower back pain is something almost everyone will eventually experience to some degree, but the team at McMaster University is hoping to deepen the understanding of the lumbar region of the spine, and someday aid in the creation of more effective surgical interventions. The project that earned Olivia the Undergraduate Scientific Poster Award at Anatomy Connected '24 focuses on the sublaminar ridge of the spine. Initially intrigued by the clinical implications of the project, Olivia explored various aspects of spinal anatomy, contributing to the larger study by providing a better visual representation of this anatomical structure.
The study involves classifying the shapes of the sublaminar ridge to aid in surgical planning and intervention. The research team, including Olivia, worked closely with an orthopedic surgeon to identify patterns not commonly discussed in medical textbooks. Their findings could potentially revolutionize the approach to treating spinal conditions by combining 2D images onto a 3D model, providing a more detailed anatomical map to guide surgeons.
A significant aspect of Olivia’s contribution to the Spine Study was her ability to communicate complex scientific ideas effectively. At Anatomy Connected '24, she skillfully presented her research, opening with a story of back pain that almost everyone can relate to, and talking about the intricate visualization process in a way that was easy to understand. Her efforts in science communication were particularly noted for their clarity and accessibility.
Olivia credits much of her success to the mentorship and supportive environment at the McMaster Anatomy Lab. Emphasizing hands-on involvement allows undergraduate researchers like Olivia to take significant ownership of their projects, fostering a deep understanding and commitment to the scientific process. She made special note of the assistance and guidance of Drs. Bruce Wainman and Yasmeen Mezil for creating an environment where the team could bring their own unique talents and perspectives to the project.
Looking ahead, Olivia is enthusiastic about continuing her research and eventually combining clinical practice with scientific investigation. She aims to become a physician-scientist, contributing to both patient care and medical research. Her experiences at McMaster have solidly prepared her for this dual role, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing medical science.
Olivia Chung's early achievements in anatomical research highlight her solid foundation in both practical and theoretical aspects of anatomy; she is well on her way to making significant contributions to medical science. Her journey underscores the importance of curiosity, mentorship, and persistence in achieving scientific excellence.
You can learn more about the Sublaminar Ridge Study by talking to the team at the AACA meeting in June. Keep up with Olivia’s work on social media.