Isabel Kou

Honours Thesis Student / Incoming Masters Student

Biology, Specialization in Chemical and Environmental Toxicology

ikou029@uottawa.ca

Bio:

Isabel is completing her undergraduate degree in Environmental Science at the University of Ottawa through the CO-OP and French Immersion programs. In May 2026, she will begin her master’s in Biology with a Specialization in Chemical and Environmental Toxicology under the supervision of Dr. Laurie Chan and Dr. Philippe Thomas (NWRC, ECCC). Her previous work with the Government of Canada involved media relations, policy implementation, and wildlife research, including mammal dissections, methodological development, and literature synthesis. These experiences have shaped her passion for wildlife toxicology and inspired her to pursue research that advances understanding of contaminant impacts on the reproductive health of mammals.

Research Project:

Isabel’s research investigates how alkylated higher-molecular-weight PACs (AHMW PACs) from oil sands activities affect muskrat reproductive health. Her undergraduate thesis found a significant negative relationship between hepatic AHMW PAC concentrations and placental scar counts, suggesting reduced reproductive success. Building on this, she aims to standardize placental scar counts as a biomarker, uncover cellular mechanisms of PAC-induced toxicity, and distinguish industrial from natural contaminant sources to strengthen wildlife monitoring and conservation.

Publications:

Undergraduate Honours Thesis Results published in Athabasca Chipewyan First Nations Winter 2024 Issue - https://acfn.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Winter-2024-Issue.pdf