Meet the postdocs powering SickKids science

Posted on September 15, 2025

Summary:

During Postdoc Appreciation Week, get to know a few of the early career SickKids researchers shaping the future of child health.

Postdoctoral fellows are the engine behind scientific discovery. These highly trained early career researchers play a critical role in driving research forward, designing experiments, analyzing data and publishing findings that are helping shape the future of child health. At The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) Research Institute, they work in labs across the seven research programs, bringing fresh perspectives, specialized expertise, and a deep commitment to advancing knowledge in paediatric science.

This Postdoc Appreciation Week, SickKids is recognizing the remarkable contributions postdocs make across the Research Institute. The ongoing PROPEL series offers a closer look at the people behind the science, highlighting the research and personal journeys that shape the postdoc experience at SickKids.

From supporting global health efforts to easing NICU transitions, these stories reveal the passion and purpose of the people who drive discovery and innovation. Explore the stories below to meet some of the postdocs behind SickKids science.

Dr. Angie Lim on a blue background with hand drawings

How a SickKids nurse researcher is easing NICU transitions

Postdoctoral fellow Dr. Angie Lim combines research and care to support families transitioning from neonatal intensive care.

Two women stand side by side with their arms crossed surrounded by drawings of genes and brains.

When code meets CRISPR: Postdocs innovating in brain science

Two postdoctoral fellows working in the Li Lab are using different tools—computational modeling and gene-editing technology—to collaboratively unlock a better understanding of the developing brain.

Dr. Toan Nguyen stands with his arms crossed infront of a pink background.

Breakthroughs at the bench with Dr. Toan Nguyen

Meet the postdoctoral fellow whose research offers a promising approach for quickly predicting a rare genetic condition.

Dr. Julie Sato on a background of her scientific drawings with a stripe of orange through the image.

Exploring the developing brain with Dr. Julie Sato

From using wearable neuroimaging technology to taking hikes with her sheepadoodle, Dr. Julie Sato is a postdoctoral fellow pursuing research breakthroughs and work-life balance.

A quest for a new malaria vaccine with postdoctoral fellow Dr. Danton Ivanochko

A dedicated scientist and father of two, Dr. Danton Ivanochko is part of a global effort to prevent malaria.