8th Annual UVic WIS Research Symposium
“Fostering Community in STEM”
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Poster applications are now closed.
Ana was born and raised in warm and sunny Mexico City. Always curious about life’s biggest questions, she decided to pursue an undergraduate program in Mathematics and Astronomy at the University of Victoria. At the end of her first year, she had the opportunity to work on a research project under the supervision of Mallory Thorp and Dr. Sara Ellison in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, thanks to the VKURA research award. Her project focused on understanding how galaxies evolve after they collide and merge with each other – some of the most dramatic and beautiful events in the universe. By analyzing data from hundreds of nearby galaxies, her research explored how these cosmic encounters can trigger intense bursts of star formation at their centers, and how these “merger-driven” starbursts differ from those that happen naturally in calmer, isolated galaxies. Although Ana has since shifted her focus to mathematics in her final years of her studies, she continues to be driven by the same sense of wonder, amazed by both the universe we live in and our ability to understand it. Outside of academics, Ana works as a communications assistant and content creator, and is passionate about dancing, yoga, playing the guitar, and arts and crafts.
Keynote - Ana Galicia Lozano
Dr. Goncheva was born in Bulgaria, where she received her high-school education. She then moved to Edinburgh, Scotland for an undergraduate degree in Infectious Diseases, followed by a PhD, also in Edinburgh. During her PhD, Dr. Goncheva discovered her passion for viral-bacterial co-infection, which is the main topic of her current laboratory. In 2017, Dr. Goncheva moved to Canada to pursue a postdoc in London, Ontario. During her 5 years at Western University, she became a champion for EDI.
Dr. Goncheva joined UVic in September 2022. Her lab focuses on understating complex respiratory infections, with a main interest in influenza A virus. She teaches 2nd and 4th year classes in Biochemistry and Microbiology, which focus on viral pathogenesis. Dr. Goncheva is continuing her EDI work here at UVic, and at the national level with the Canadian Society for Virology.
Keynote - Dr. Mariya Goncheva
My focus at UVic is in undergraduate teaching. I often teach introductory psychology, as well as social psychology courses such as interpersonal relationships, psychology of forgiveness, social cognition, psychology and law. I sometimes also teach mental health and wellbeing. My research interests have mostly focused on forgiveness (seeking of forgiveness and self-forgiveness) and restorative justice.
I love psychology and am interested in how our knowledge in the field can apply to helping us build better relationships and communities. I am passionate about social justice issues and enjoy supporting students explore their passions and strengths.
I enjoy supporting student learning and engagement and am currently the faculty liaison for Psi Chi (Honours Society, UVic Chapter) and PUGS (Psychology Undergraduate Society of UVic). As a teaching professor, I do not supervise graduate students.
Dr. Jessica Rourke
Join us for the 8th Annual UVic WIS Research Symposium on March 3rd, where we celebrate innovation and collaboration in our UVic community. Immerse yourself in a dynamic showcase featuring student poster presentations, captivating keynote speakers, and ample networking opportunities. This year's theme, "Fostering Community in STEM" highlights our commitment to nurturing connections and sharing knowledge. Admission is free, ensuring accessibility for all. Don't miss this chance to be inspired, connect with peers, and recognize outstanding contributions.
Professional Headshot booth for a minimum $5 donation. All proceeds go towards the Cridge Centre for the Family’s IPV Brain Injury Women’s Group.
Agenda here.