Cory Nykiforuk

About me

I was born/grew up in: Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada and grew up in Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada.

I now live in: Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.

I completed my training/education at: I obtained a B.Sc. in Biological Sciences from the University of Alberta. Afterwards, I obtained a Ph.D. in Plant Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from the University of Alberta.

What I do at work

I oversee a technical group at Emergent BioSolutions. We advance proof of concept programs. We also partner with external groups to develop new technology or advance programs. We focus on biotechnology, drug development, biology, and pharmaceutical development. We use equipment to measure biological and biochemical reactions. This is standard equipment for understanding molecular biology. We solve problems to ensure that the product is effective and safe for living beings. Data drives decisions. As part of a team we design experiments to answer or address goals and overcome problems.

My career path is

I was always interested in Medicine. After being in University I became interested in the Applied Sciences. Molecular biology was beginning to change the way we understood biology. We could make new molecules and alter plants to the benefit of producers and consumers. I was not aware of all the opportunities available today to apprentice or intern early in career to either help guide interests or decide on a field. I had great mentors. I tried to follow the best of them in my career. I started in plants but ended up in pharmaceutical development. Check my LinkedIn profile for more details of my career path.

I am motivated by

I love new technology and ways of using it to advance knowledge and the way we do things.

How I affect peoples’ lives

I work to fulfill the company mission to protect and enhance life. We work to develop the most effective means of treating or preventing infectious disease.

Outside of work I

I enjoy anything outside (camping, fishing, biking, walking, etc). I volunteer for different activities within my community and Church.

My advice to others

Explore and understand that you may not end up where you think you need to be. There are a lot of unique jobs that make a difference.