Cow DNA research leads to international recognition
By Barb Nahwegahbow
GUELPH – Marlene Paibomesai’s love of science and passion for dairy cattle paid off when she entered an international young scientist competition sponsored by Alltech, an American animal health and nutrition company.
Not only did Paibomesai place first in Canada but she placed second in North America. This 27-year old citizen of Whitefish River First Nation and Ph.D. candidate at the University of Guelph said she was thrilled by her win.
“I feel honoured that I’m getting recognition for the work that’s being done in our lab for a fairly new field of study,” says Paibomesai. “We were never too sure about how the scientific community would accept this type of work so it’s great to get that recognition.”
Paibomesai works in a field called epigenetics.
“It really means above genetics and this field of study is looking at modifications to DNA that basically turns genes on and off. It’s fairly ground-breaking research.”
The focus of her research is looking at particular events in a cow’s life which are fairly stressful, like calving and how that affects the immune response. The basis of her research is looking at how to genetically select animals to be healthier and more resistant to a number of diseases.
The end result of her work is healthier and more robust cattle without the use of antibiotics or other drugs.
Paibomesai was raised in Kemptville, a rural community south of Ottawa. She knew at a young age that she wanted to go to university. Volunteering, hard work and time for play through various sports kept her on track, she said. For a number of years, she served as President of Interact Club, a junior version of the Rotary Club. One of the highlights of her work with Interact was a humanitarian mission to El Salvador. Currently, she volunteers for 4-H Canada, a leadership development organization for youth aged 8 to 21 years.
“Nothing ever comes easy,” Paibomesai says when asked what advice she would give to First Nations youth. “It is hard work, perseverance and reminding yourself about what you’re working towards. That takes a lot of self-reflection. Knowing yourself – that’s really important, what you’re capable of and what you need help with and not being afraid to ask for help.”
Hard work is something she knows about first-hand. She has a full-time job as a Dairy Specialist at the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food. She’s also devoting 20 to 30 hours a week on her thesis which she hopes to complete by December. Sports and recreation are important for her and she manages to fit in beach volleyball, horseback riding and hockey. Consulting with the elders at the university and attending ceremonies is another priority in her busy agenda.
Chief Shining Turtle of Whitefish River said the community is very proud of Marlene and her extraordinary accomplishments.
“She’s now recognized as one of the outstanding scientists among her peers,” says the Chief. “Marlene has blazed a trail that will ultimately open new doors for many students that have their own visions and dreams.”