People

Dr. Nicole Templeman joined the Biology Department at the University of Victoria as an Assistant Professor in 2020. She became fascinated in aging biology through her Ph.D. research at the University of British Columbia, where she studied how insulin levels affect metabolic health and lifespan in mice. Dr. Templeman expanded her exploration of age-related biological changes during her postdoctoral research fellowship at Princeton University. There, she focused on signaling pathways that regulate the decline in reproductive capacity that occurs with age, using the nematode C. elegans as a model. Her research interests were also shaped by earlier experiences at Mount Allison University (studying stress responses in rainbow trout for an B.Sc. Honours research project) and McMaster University (conducting an M.Sc. in comparative exercise physiology).

Faria Athar's research interests lie in understanding how nutrition regulates aging and age-associated diseases. Previously she studied at University College London, where she worked in the David Gems lab on dietary restriction and lifespan-extending mechanisms in C. elegans. Outside of the lab, Faria enjoys listening to podcasts, experimenting with food, and watching documentaries.

Muskan Karmani's research interests lie in understanding disease manifestations, particularly those involving hormone dysregulation. Muskan's undergraduate Honor's project examined the effects of various substrates on the growth of oyster mushrooms, which prompted her curiosity in learning more about how dietary modifications and nutrient intake can impact an organism's quality of life. This experience sparked her interest in studying the relationship between diet and health, specifically in the context of aging. Outside the lab, Muskan enjoys reading, weightlifting, and rewatching sitcoms.

Emma Houston completed a B.Sc. Hons. at the University of Victoria, where she studied the relationship between diet and reproductive aging with the Templeman Lab. Currently, her research interests focus on understanding the factors contributing to the onset and progression of polycystic ovary syndrome. Outside of the lab, Emma enjoys knitting, reading, and hiking.