Prishaa Rajalathan is a graduate student at the Balsillie School of International Affairs in the Master of Development Practice (MDP) program. She holds an Honours Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences with a concentration in Biomedical Science from Lakehead University. Her undergraduate thesis focused on microbial biotechnology for sustainable pharmaceutical applications. The research she conducted looked at how environmental bacterial strains could improve the extraction of flavonoids from Solidago canadensis (Canadian Goldenrod), showing how molecular science can support green innovation, waste reduction, and circular economies.
Prishaa has conducted field-based research in biodiversity, examining habitat conservation and small mammal population dynamics in addition to her laboratory studies. Along with her extensive involvement in maternal and community health initiatives, she has also facilitated workshops on prenatal and perinatal health for Northern and Indigenous communities. Her dedication to development work that is both culturally and environmentally grounded was strengthened by these experiences.
Her current academic interests focus on the intersections of global health, environmental sustainability, and equity in access to care. The interdisciplinary and applied nature of the Master of Development Practice program allows her to build on her background in biomedical and ecological sciences while engaging directly with the social, cultural, and policy dimensions of development.
By supporting community driven, individualized solutions in global health and sustainable development, Prishaa hopes to keep bridging the gap between research and practice. Prishaa hopes to contribute to creative solutions that tackle some of the most important issues of our day by integrating her training in development practice with her background in life sciences. Her path demonstrates a dedication to multidisciplinary education, teamwork in solving problems, and the conviction that long-term progress needs to be grounded in both community perspectives and scientific knowledge.