Maxime Teixeira - 2022 Winning Essay
I grew up in a family severely affected by incurable, destructive neurodegenerative diseases, and this gave rise to my desire to devote my life to research. This inextinguishable flame led me to start with a Bachelor’s degree at the Université d’Angers (France) to learn more about cellular and molecular biology. With this background, I was able to excel during my Master’s studies and publish two original scientific articles.
To contribute to developing research on these neuropathologies, which is still in its infancy, I seized the opportunity to continue my studies by moving to Québec. I’m currently studying for my doctorate in Molecular Medicine at Université Laval (4.26/4.33). My work deals with the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease, using an innovative high-tech method (real-time control of the induction of the disease using light as a stimulus). I’ve already contributed significantly to research by obtaining over $15,000 in awards and submitting three original scientific publications. I’ve also had the chance to present my work at over ten different congresses, including international conferences in the United States. Finally, I participate actively in promoting neurosciences from Québec around the world as a member of the executive of the Centre Thématique de Recherche en Neurosciences.
These high-level scientific achievements have allowed me to establish the solid foundations I will need to achieve my professional ambitions. I hope to become an university professor in order to make significant contributions to discovering new cures.