Molecular science innovations shine at TMU 3MT® Competition

“Do you know what the worst part of opening a natural jar of peanut butter is? Seeing a layer of oil sitting atop the solids—try remixing that!” opened Jordan Carrillo Zurita, TMU Three-Minute Thesis (3MT®) Competition winner and Molecular Science PhD student.

At the recent university-wide competition, graduate students showcased groundbreaking research spanning from revolutionizing processed foods to enhancing inclusivity in health diagnostics in three minutes or less to a panel of non-specialist judges. Among the presentations, two stood out for their potential impact on public health and consumer well-being.

Building better processed foods, block by block

Molecular Science PhD student Jordan Carrillo Zurita, a food scientist, captivated the audience with his innovative approach to reimagining processed foods. He highlighted the common issue of oil separation in natural peanut butter and unveiled his solution: rebuilding processed foods "block by block" to eliminate unhealthy additives.

Zurita, who won both the TMU 3MT® and Participants' Choice Award, expressed gratitude for the support of his peers and loved ones. "Winning has reassured me that I am following a great path and living up to the potential many others have seen in me and that I see in myself. As a first-generation Latino in STEM, I hope my win inspires others like myself, who traditionally might not see themselves represented in the scientific community."

He added, "Peanut butter holds personal meaning. As someone of Ecuadorian heritage, smooth peanut butter is a staple ingredient in the cuisine I grew up eating regularly at home. For people globally, especially those in impoverished communities, if we could redevelop a shelf-stable food to be rich in protein and have zero fats, it's a win for improving people's access to nutrient-rich foods."

Zurita, who is set to represent TMU at the Ontario 3MT® at the Lakehead University Orillia campus this spring, emphasized, "I want to educate people about the field of food science and how this research impacts our day-to-day lives. Second, I want to show others that TMU students, particularly molecular science students, are leaders in science communication."

Making vitamin D tests more inclusive

Aaliya Pathan, TMU 3MT® runner-up and Molecular Science MSc student, addressed the need for more inclusive vitamin D-testing methods. Pathan highlighted the limitations of current tests, which often fail to account for variations in vitamin D-binding proteins among diverse populations.

"I’m extremely passionate about integrating various disciplines of science; biology, electrochemistry, microfluidics and engineering to ameliorate medical testing and address limitations present within healthcare,” said Pathan. “I hope that my research can contribute to advocating for more inclusive testing methods to ensure accurate and comprehensive results for patients." 

Being a TMU 3MT® finalist represents a significant milestone in Pathan’s academic journey. She expressed gratitude for the support and guidance from her labmates and supervisor, emphasizing the importance of stepping out of her comfort zone and growing as a professional.