Journeys in research: Trainee experiences supporting knowledge exchange, part 1 Nawal Elshamiy

The Monthly Science Seminar series described in the blog below is an example of one of the knowledge mobilization activities organized to support effective knowledge sharing, connection, and collaboration among members of Canadian Blood Services’ innovation and portfolio management (I&PM) internal research network. Each year, trainees in Canadian Blood Services’ research network are invited to volunteer as MSS Series Organizing Committee members. 

By emphasizing the importance of effective science communication and knowledge translation, this opportunity to engage in session planning is designed to help foster trainees’ professional development and collaboration skills. As a further value-add, trainee members from the 2025-2026 season were invited to contribute blog posts reflecting on their experiences to date. 

My connection to transfusion and blood research

My name is Nawal, and I am a Master of Science student under the supervision of Dr. Syed Qadri in the red cell research lab at Ontario Tech University (Note: Dr. Qadri is an Associate Professor at Ontario Tech University and adjunct scientist with Canadian Blood Services and formerly completed research as a postdoctoral fellow in the lab of Dr. William Sheffield, Canadian Blood Services senior scientist and director of research.). My current research focuses on mechanisms of programmed cell death in red blood cells.

Watch Nawal’s 3-minute video summarizing the purpose and context for this research on the Ontario Tech University Youtube channel:

Nawal Elshamiy, Undergraduate Research Award Recipient 2025

I was drawn to the Canadian Blood Services MSS committee because I am very interested in learning about how Canadian researchers and transfusion medicine experts are continuing to advance the field of transfusion science.

Key takeaways from my participation in knowledge exchange activities with Canadian Blood Services

As a trainee, I am actively learning about the research process and how knowledge is generated and refined over time. An insight I have gained from participating in MSS sessions is an appreciation for the broader context of scientific research, and how it contributes to ongoing developments in transfusion science, ultimately helping to improve patient outcomes.

Another key takeaway from these discussions is the importance of ethical considerations in research, particularly when novel tools like AI technology are involved. Ethical accountability is important to ensure that the knowledge we generate and distribute is equitable, relevant, and safeguards intellectual property. 

“As a new researcher, I have learned to appreciate the value of collaboration and its role in progressing evidence-based practice in the healthcare field. This understanding will translate to my future work in clinical research, where I aspire to contribute to the generation of novel scientific findings that can be applied to clinical practice.”

The value gained from participation: Lessons learned along the way

A key aspect of research is knowledge translation. Being a member of the MSS organizing committee has allowed me to expand my communication skills, and this ability to disseminate findings to other researchers in the field allows for the advancement of science. Through planning and organizing MSS sessions alongside experts in the Canadian Blood Services network, I have further developed my project management and event facilitation skills, which are applicable to my current research as a graduate student.

A memorable moment of participating in MSS sessions is getting to observe thoughtful discussions between top scientists in the field of blood research. Each attendee has a unique perspective on the seminar topics, whether the discussion focuses on microbiology, AI usage in clinical practice, or social science in relation to transfusion medicine. My experience in this role has also helped to broaden my view of science communication. Participating has allowed me to appreciate how research collaboration is interdisciplinary, and that knowledge exchange can occur in a variety of different formats, whether through structured presentations, guided discussions, or scientific publications.

My biggest piece of advice for future trainees is to say yes to every opportunity, even ones that may seem daunting or unfamiliar at first. The leadership and communication skills you will develop when stepping outside of your comfort zone will ultimately improve your critical thinking and enhance your professional development.

Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond

I am excited to play an active role in facilitating MSS discussion sessions this year. I also look forward to participating in more professional development opportunities to strengthen my project management and communication skills.

I leave every MSS session eager to learn more about the field of transfusion research. As a trainee of the MSS organizing committee, participating in knowledge exchange with Canadian Blood Services scientists and other knowledge users has deepened my appreciation for effective science communication. I continue to be inspired to apply my learning to my own research and further my understanding of the ever-evolving field of transfusion medicine.

Thank you for your contributions to Canadian Blood Services’ research and education network, Nawal, and the insights you’ve captured in this post!

Canadian Blood Services – Driving world-class innovation 

Through discovery, development and applied research, Canadian Blood Services drives world-class innovation in blood transfusion, cellular therapy and transplantation—bringing clarity and insight to an increasingly complex healthcare future. Our dedicated research team and extended network of partners engage in exploratory and applied research to create new knowledge, inform and enhance best practices, contribute to the development of new services and technologies, and build capacity through training and collaboration. Find out more about our research impact.  

The opinions reflected in this post are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Canadian Blood Services nor do they reflect the views of Health Canada or any other funding agency.