Thiru Kanagasabai, Ph.D. Student (2012-Present)
Dissertation: Effect of modifiable lifestyle risk factors on the sleep-metabolic health relationship
Thiru is studying the relationship between modifiable lifestyle factors, sleep, and metabolic health in adults. Her research will help us better understand this complex research problem, improve human health, and define prevention and intervention targets for at risk populations.
Thiru comes from a background in toxicology from the University of Toronto. At the undergraduate level, she studied the effect of a lipid-based intervention to improve cognitive function. At the graduate level, she studied the mechanisms of drugs and natural agents on copper and iron induced oxidative stress toxicity, and their antioxidant and free radical scavenging properties. She has several years of work experiences, including at the University of Toronto and the University Health Network.
Niels Thakkar, M.Sc Student (2012-Present)
Thesis: Physical Activity and Global Cardiometabolic Risk: Variation by Sedentary Time and Workplace Health Intervention
Niels graduated from McGill University in 2012 with a B.Sc in kinesiology. His Master’s thesis involves examining the joint effect of sedentary activity and physical activity on cardiometabolic risk and the effects of a workplace health intervention on global cardiometabolic health.
A native of Fredericton, New Brunswick, Niels played both rugby and football at McGill while becoming involved with exercise physiology and biomechanics research, focusing on obesity and chronic disease. At York, he joined the PA-REACH and became certified as an exercise physiologist (CSEP-CEP). Niels has also been involved with Top Prospects Canada and the NHL Scouting Combine.
Alina Cohen, Ph.D. Student (2012-Present)
Dissertation: Effects of obesity and physical activity on cognition and overall health related quality of life as individuals age
Alina obtained a Specialised Honors BSc. in Psychology and a MSc. in Kinesiology and Health Science from York University. Her masters thesis investigated whether ADHD treatment with stimulant medications during childhood or adolescence is related to a greater tendency to engage in addictive behaviors in adulthood and the tendency to overeat highly palatable and processed foods compared to those with high ADHD symptoms without treatment.
