Her enthusiasm for microbiology and membrane biology began after completing her B.Sc. Microbiology in 2000 and intensified over her Ph.D. thesis studies (awarded in 2007) characterizing mitochondrial voltage-dependent anion channels at the University of Manitoba. Her research program builds upon nine years of experience as a post-doctoral fellow and research associate, exploring the folding, activity, and evolution of various bacterial efflux pump systems and protein secretion system in bacteria. Bench and Beyond: Identifying Skills and Career Directions for Biologists