Learn more about Katie Sonier, a new Research Assistant for the Digital Research Commons Pilot (DRCP)!
SCDS: Please introduce yourself to our readers!
I’m Katie Sonier. I’m a longtime member of the McMaster community, starting with my undergraduate degree. I graduated with my HBSc in Biology & PNB in 2020 and I’m currently pursuing my MSc in eHealth, which I’ll be graduating from in 2024. As part of the eHealth program, I’m completing my internship remotely at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre as an eHealth Business Analyst Intern.
SCDS: What got you interested in the world of research?
I’ve always had a passion for research and I worked in the field throughout my undergraduate degree, including at the Cognitive Science Laboratory and the Rutherford Laboratory. These experiences have helped me develop essential skills, such as data analysis and problem-solving, which I’ve carried with me into my other endeavours. I’m currently the Research Director at the Canadian Courage Project (CCP), which has been rewarding work, as CCP is Canada’s first non-profit organization that supports youth experiencing homelessness.
SCDS: What will you be working on over the next few months?
In Fall 2022, I started working at McMaster University Library as a Research Assistant for the Digital Research Commons Pilot (DRCP). At the DRCP, we aim to build a more connected and researcher-focused approach to digital research support, which will improve access to services, training, and resources for all McMaster researchers. Alongside my colleagues, I’ve helped run focus groups with stakeholders, perform thematic analyses, and produce a final report on the main themes. I’ve really enjoyed working for the DRCP and I think the work we’re doing is incredibly important as it has the potential to improve the lives and work of all McMaster researchers and beyond!
SCDS: We conclude all entries in the “Meet Our Team” interview series (where I interview my co-workers) by asking for a fun fact. Tell us something interesting or unexpected about you–your favorite TV show, a little-known hobby, a great recipe–whatever you like.
Besides school, work, and volunteering, in my spare time, I enjoy working out, and I’ve recently started taking spin classes. I’m also an avid reader and I just surpassed my goal of reading 30 books this year!
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