EDI Spotlight Series: Ilakkiah Chandran on her research, mentors and commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion

The IMS is excited to be launching our new EDI Spotlight Series featuring different lived experiences and perspectives on equity, diversity and inclusion from members of our community. 

Why is your research important?

My research aims to understand the phenotypic and genotypic presentation of infantile-onset developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs) in adults. DEEs are severe infantile-onset epilepsies that affect development, quality of life, and longevity. My thesis explores three key areas: 1) the natural history of adult patients, 2) biological aging mechanisms, and 3) the transition from pediatric to adult healthcare.

Understanding the progression of DEEs over a lifetime is essential for developing better management strategies and examining the healthcare transition, which can help inform policies to improve continuity of care for patients and families. Additionally, by working closely with patient advocacy groups, I strive to ensure that my research reflects the lived experiences and needs of patients and caregivers.

Through this work, I aim to advance scientific knowledge while also prioritizing patient-centred care, informing meaningful improvements in both research and healthcare practices.

Who are the mentors or role models who have impacted you?

I have been incredibly fortunate to have been guided by several mentors who have profoundly shaped my academic and professional development. My supervisor, Dr. Danielle Andrade, has been an invaluable mentor, offering expert guidance in my research and providing resources that have supported my growth both professionally and personally. Her mentorship has been central to refining my research interests and broadening my career development.

Dr. Kosha Bramesfeld, my undergraduate thesis supervisor, also played a pivotal role in shaping my approach to leadership and balance. While she continues to encourage my engagement in activities that I started leading during my undergraduate studies, she reminds me of the importance in maintaining a healthy work-life balance, which is an invaluable lesson I will continue to apply throughout my career.  

Further, Dr. Pamela Plant has significantly influenced my experience with navigating graduate school. Through her encouragement and guidance, I adapted my perspective on graduate school to extend beyond my thesis. By thoughtfully engaging with my values, passions and interests, I have been able to meaningfully be involved within the IMS and broader UofT community. She provided guidance and resources, which have been vital to my professional and personal development.

Aside from these incredible mentors, I have also had the privilege of working closely with Sarah Topa, Alicia Sam, Dr. Aisha Lofters, Dr. Reinhart Reithmeier, as well as other academics, peers at IMS and at my lab, all of whom I am grateful for as they have supported me in ways that have contributed to my growth.

What would you say to your younger self?

I would tell my younger self to be patient with myself. There’s so much I don’t know now, but there was even more I didn’t know when I was younger. When I felt lost, I often became overly critical of myself and tried to control outcomes in situations beyond my control. However, looking back, I recognize that with each experience, especially those that didn’t go as planned, I gained new perspectives that helped me better understand myself. Life doesn’t have to follow a strict, linear path, and every step, no matter how uncertain, added depth to who I was becoming.

What does it mean for you to have a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion? How have you demonstrated that commitment as a graduate student?

To me, equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) means creating spaces where everyone feels valued, respected, equipped, and empowered to pursue their goals. EDI goes beyond simply welcoming diversity. It requires actively challenging and dismantling systemic barriers that restrict access to opportunities and resources. As a graduate student, my commitment to EDI begins with recognizing my ability to make a positive impact through my research, my involvement within IMS, and my personal interactions.

A central focus of my research is accessibility, which includes ensuring that my methodologies are inclusive, providing language-accessible assessments, and collaborating with patient advocacy organizations to refine and improve my work. By prioritizing accessibility, I aim to conduct meaningful and impactful research for diverse patient populations. Additionally, my dedication to science communication allows me to contribute knowledge that empowers patients and caregivers, ensuring they are included in the conversation about their own care.

Within the IMS, I strive to support others where possible. As a first-generation doctoral student, I am cognizant of the existing gaps in resources and knowledge. Whether it be through mentorship, by organizing events and workshops, or engaging in one-on-one conversations, I openly share my experiences while actively listening to see how I can support those around me. My goal has been to foster mutual learning where we can learn from each other’s unique perspectives and experiences. Ultimately, my commitment to EDI is rooted in a strong sense of community and shared experiences that foster empowerment.

If you are an IMS community member who would like to take part in the EDI Spotlight Series, please reach out.