Studentships at the Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba support students in higher education by applying their knowledge to active research studies in the labs. Supervision and mentorship are provided by CHRIM scientists who recruit students into their labs, which provides early exposure to the exciting world of research and the many career possibilities that can stem from it.
Over the years, CHRIM has welcomed hundreds of students thanks to our partners at the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba who’ve provided funding for these studentships year after year. These students have not only contributed to advances in child health research in Manitoba but have also been part of our community, and we’ve been fortunate to celebrate their success after their term is completed at CHRIM.
Dr. Mohamed El Azrak first came to CHRIM as a volunteer in the Research Support Unit in 2012. In May of that year, he joined Dr. Bob Schroth as a summer student and presented his studentship presentation entitled “The Oral Health of Preschool Children from Newcomer Families in Manitoba”.
“My studentship at CHRIM gave me knowledge and insight on aspects of Pediatric Dentistry, especially early childhood oral health”, said Dr. El Azrak.
“CHRIM is where I first discovered my interest in the field of Pediatric Dentistry, and thus, I would say my studentship ignited the spark of my passion for the field”.
Dr. Mohamed El Azrak
Mohamed completed his science degree at the University of Manitoba and went on to complete his dental degree in Ireland. He has since returned to the U of M in the Pediatric Dental Program and has had Dr. Schroth as his research supervisor.
In June 2024, Dr. El Azrak will graduate as a pediatric dentist and plans to move back to Halifax, NS to be closer to his family.
Dr. Bob Schroth and the Healthy Smile Happy Child team have been supporting Mohamed since 2014 and are excited to see him graduate this year.
Dr. Schroth commented, “It has been a wonderful 10 years to see an undergraduate student develop into a child-health dental professional”.
“I am very grateful for Dr. Schroth’s mentorship over the last 10 years, Dr. El Azrak went on to say. “I can truly say that it helped me be where I am today. Dr. Schroth has continued to support me not only through my time working as a summer student in his lab but throughout my subsequent endeavors as well. Having mentorship is very valuable for students, and I think it is very important for students considering applying to his lab to know that the relationship with Dr. Schroth and his team extends beyond the time at work, and they will willingly support and guide you to reach your personal goals. I hope that one day in the future, I can provide mentorship and support to students the same way Dr. Schroth has for me.”