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Faculty of Health Sciences

McMaster Immunology Research Centre

MIRC’s Trainee of the Month

MIRC's Trainee of the Month: Art Marzok, PhD candidate from the Miller Lab

Can you describe your research?

I am currently studying the role of viral infections in exacerbating ALS pathology and accelerating disease progression. Many prior studies have focused on chronic/persistent and neurotropic infections, however I am interested in determining whether common acute infections can have a similar effect.In addition, I have recently been engaged in many COVID-19 related projects. I am involved in identifying novel and repurposed antiviral drug treatments against SARS-CoV-2 and other related seasonal coronaviruses. This is being done through screening prospective drug candidates and performing genome-wide CRISPR screens on relevant cell lines to identify druggable targets. Ultimately, I hope my research helps further our understanding of these diseases, and improves the lives and health outcomes of individuals affected by ALS and COVID-19.


What advice would you give to future scientists?
Lab environment is everything!
Try to get a good feel for the members in the lab and your prospective supervisor. Does the supervisor’s mentoring style align with your own personal goals? Do the lab members seem to get along with each other, and can you see yourself immersing with this group? These are all questions you should be asking yourself before deciding to join the lab. Having a strong supportive laboratory environment will allow you to reach personal and professional success.

What do you like to do when you’re not in lab?
I have always been drawn to scientific mentorship and strongly believe in the importance of having early mentors throughout one’s education. One of my goals is to actively engage in mentorship initiatives. I am a coordinator for Let’s Talk Science and a Student Ambassador for the Faculty of Health Sciences. Through these roles, I hope to foster interest in this field and provide guidance to a new generation of scientists. Outside of this, my hobbies include playing and watching basketball (Go Raptors!) and having board game nights with friends and family (Settlers of Catan!).

 Researcher Profile