Anastasiia Prysyazhnyuk

About me

I was born/grew up in: Chernivtsi, Ukraine

I now live in: Toronto, Ontario

I completed my training/education at: BSc Human Biology: Health and Disease - University of Toronto; MHSc Health Informatics - Ontario Tech University

What I do at work

My workday varies, depending on the status of our activities. Mostly, it involves a lot of teamwork with other scientists and engineers. These people can be located in Canada or abroad. We work together to identify the healthcare needs for future space missions. We also explore the technologies that are needed to support them.

This work requires various STEM skills, so that all aspects of healthcare problems are considered. My team and I also organize events that bring together people from academic circles, industry and government. The goal is to foster communication and collaboration between these groups. In this way, we will have a strong community of Canadian innovators.

My career path is

In high school, I enjoyed science and math.  I always had a strong desire to help people. I was genuinely curious about health and the various factors that influence it. This led me to pursue a Bachelor of Science Degree with specialization in Human Biology.

After I finished my undergraduate studies, I started working at the healthcare facility. Later I decided to continue with a graduate degree. I enrolled in a Master of Health Sciences degree at Ontario Tech University. , Here, my path crossed with the Russian pioneer of space cardiology. , This introduced me to the field of space medicine and I never looked back.

I learned that many of the health problems in space are similar to what is faced by some populations on Earth. This included caring for babies and the need for first responders. I was fortunate to have a supervisor who conducted research in these populations.  Luckily, I was able to be a part of this research too. After my graduate studies, I completed an internship at the Canadian Space Agency. This led me to the position I am in today. Check my LinkedIn profile for more information.

I am motivated by

I am motivated by the novelty and the limitless potential of possibilities that exist. It's the passion and excitement of my co-workers that makes this work so motivating. The variety of projects supports continuous learning from the many experts in the field. It is such a rewarding feeling when things fall into places and complete a puzzle. It’s great when we solve a healthcare challenge! The solutions developed for space healthcare challenges also apply her on Earth. As a restul, my work has a huge impact.

How I affect peoples’ lives

My work is important to ensure that humans can continue to explore the universe safely. It also helps to solve healthcare challenges here on Earth. For example, to help people living in rural and/or remote territories, where access to healthcare is limited.

Outside of work I

I enjoy doing yoga, reading, travelling and spending time with my family.

My advice to others

Dare to dream big! Don't let the failures define you or your future. You can achieve anything you set your mind to.