Erik Bakkeren
Principal Investigator
Erik trained in infection biology and the evolution of pathogens for his PhD and then the ecology of evolution of microbial communities for his postdoc. Erik then started the lab in September 2025 at the University of Calgary. Click here to learn more about his academic journey and CV.
Erik also enjoys mountain running and all things outdoors. Click here to learn more.
Myles Wheeler
MSc Student
Myles recently graduated from the University of Calgary with a B.Sc (Honours) in Cellular, Molecular, and Microbial Biology with a focus in microbial biology. He has previously worked in the Gieg Lab developing eco-friendly biofilm prevention strategies in oilfield pipelines where he has developed experience working with microbial communities and flow cell systems. Myles has begun helping to establish the Bakkeren lab in September 2025 while studying how the microbiome influences antimicrobial resistance spread in the human gut.
Myles enjoys coaching swimming, botany, and bouldering in his spare time!
Jillian Davies
MSc Student
Jillian graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from St. Francis Xavier University. She gained research experience working with Dr. McNichol in the St. FX Microbial Ecology Lab, where she studied the effects of microplastic ingestion on the gut microbiome of zebrafish.
In her free time, Jillian enjoys outdoor activities, DIY projects, and music. She is also an animal lover, particularly when it comes to dogs.
Abigail Abbe
Undergraduate Student
Abigail is a third year undergraduate student pursuing a BSc (Honours) in Biological Sciences with a concentration in Biodiversity and Conservation. She gained research experience as a summer student in Dr. Vamosi’s lab, where she assisted in a study on aquatic macroinvertebrates as bioindicators of water quality through specimen identification. Abigail is co-supervised by Dr. Vamosi.
Abigail enjoys spending her free time volunteering, learning new languages, and exploring cafes in the city with friends.
Aneeqa Nayyar
Undergraduate Student
Aneeqa is a third year undergraduate student pursuing a B.Sc (Honours) in Cellular, Molecular and Microbial Biology.
Outside of academics, you’ll often find Aneeqa baking or painting, two of Aneeqa’s favorite ways to unwind.
Sam Ross
Undergraduate Student
Sam is a third year undergraduate student working towards a B.Sc (Honours) in Cellular, Molecular, and Microbial Biology with a focus in microbial biology.
In his free time, Sam enjoys hiking, spending time on the lake, and playing guitar.
Alumni
Undergraduate students
The Bakkeren Lab 