Julie Leblanc Email and Phone Number

Project Officer in the Advanced Reactor Licensing Division - managing SMR and Impact Assessment Readiness projects, licensing, and supporting international cooperation.

The ICRP Mentorship Program provides me the opportunity to fully participate in Task Group 111 (Factors Governing the Individual Response of Humans to Ionising Radiation). Guided by an ICRP mentor, I am also conducting a systematic review on how biological sex modifies radiation-induced health effects. This research will inform the task group's final report.

As a graduate student, I directed the research, as well as perform required experiments. This included the analysis of results, as well as presenting the work in a formal or informal setting. The experimental model was the Xenopus laevis oocyte (frog egg). I conducted multiple experiments using micro-manipulations of the oocyte in order to study the process of polar body emission, the extrusion of chromosomes during meiosis. While basic biochemistry was required, the study of meiosis was predominantly done by the use of live confocal imaging. The work included:-Plasmid preparations-mRNA transcription of fluorescent molecules to inject into oocytes.-Oocyte cultivation-Parthenogenetic activation of oocytes (via glass needle).-3D live imaging (Volocity software).-Developed abscission assay.-Chelation assay.My other duties included guiding and teaching students in the lab, ordering supplies for the laboratory, care of the frogs, as well as writing my manuscript. I also have experience in the peer review process and grant writing.

Recruited through FSWEP (Federal Student Work Experience Program)