WELCOME!

The Dahms research group consists of super talented undergraduate, graduate and postdoctoral researchers. Each student endeavors to carve out an original research question that can be addressed using both traditional biochemical, microbiological and advanced microscopic methods.

Dahms had begun her tenure at the UofR studying lipid-lipid and protein-lipid interactions, until, she claims, the microbes ate her lab. Her collaborative efforts with mycologists, microbiologists and even botanists shifted the direction of her research. This led to establishing novel methods, based on atomic force microscopy (AFM) for assessing microbial cell wall integrity and architecture (Snook, Ma, Paul, Jun). These methods were applied to determining the unintended impact of the common herbicide, 2,4-D, on soil microbes (Bhat), with obvious environmental implications. This research was used to develop a proof of principle novel correlative (AFM-confocal) microscopy assay for assessing xenobiotic stressor impact on live bacterial, yeast and human cells (Bhat, Shahina, Sultana).

Dahms’ AFM-based, fundamental mycological research was expanded to examine the mechanistic impact of plant-based essential oils as antifungals (Shahina, Sultana), with clinical applications. That work is being continued to determine how monoterpenoid essential oil components may serve as synergistic partners with traditional antifungals (Acuna, Price, Molaeitarabi, Patel). Recent discoveries include the link between fungal-human cell interactions and cancer (Ndlovu, Beck-McKenzie).

Dahms Lab Code of Conduct

Respect

All individuals, regardless of their age, gender identity, race, sexual orientation, religion, culture, academic record, personal background, disability status, economic status, or mental health status, shall be treated with equal respect and recognition in the Dahms laboratory. No forms of harassment or discrimination are tolerated. Photographs and images of others should not be taken or used without their permission. In addition, lab members should:

refer to each other with the individual’s preferred pronouns, if known, using gender-neutral language if not known.
strive to treat each other professionally and respectfully in all situations
be kind and sensitive with respect to personal, family and health issues of others, and provide moral support whenever possible
be respectful of the privacy, personal space and belongings of others

Professionalism

All group members must conduct themselves in a professional manner during work hours. This includes honesty, integrity, accountability, objectivity, and respectfulness to others. Group members should:

conduct their research work with integrity (i.e., responsibly, honestly and respectfully) and with ethical values
offer positive feedback and encouragement on research ideas and results, and constructive criticism when solicited
be punctual for all laboratory meetings and departmental events (e.g. journal club, seminars)
acknowledge (formally and informally) how others have contributed to your research
use their own bench space, solutions and cultures (also assists in preventing contamination)
ask permission (each time) to borrow research materials prepared by others
clean up lab spaces and field equipment after use, and store in the designated place
be aware of the safety of themselves and others in the laboratory, and adhere to chemical and biosafety level 2 standard operating procedures (SOPs)
prepare SOPs and risk assessment for new procedures in the laboratory
follow the safety guidelines and rules with respect to laboratory that have been defined by the University, Faculty, Department and research group
report safety incidents immediately to Tanya and to Health Safety and Wellness (https://www.uregina.ca/hr/hs/report-safety-concern/index.html)
kindly and gently point out any potential unsafe or incorrect work procedures to others
acknowledge their mistakes, and report any incidences or raise any concerns on safety or other issues with Tanya
organize a flexible work schedule to accommodate their family/personal commitments, taking into consideration the needs of other group members needing access to special equipment and laboratory spaces

Be Part of a Team

All group members:

will be invited to research group celebrations (e.g., gatherings, research successes etc.)
should invite collaboration with others on their research projects
will allow equal participation by all other group members in group discussions
will have equal opportunities to lead the discussions of the research group meetings
should suggest group activities, particularly those that encourage cultural exchange (e.g., preparing some traditional foods), to foster camaraderie within the group and celebrate diversity

The Dahms research group is a diverse, safe, welcoming and inclusive environment.

Thank you to the Chilton (UofS) and Finlay (UofR) labs for inspiration on Code of Conduct.