Dr. Meenakshi Saklani

Postdoctoral Researcher

I am a postdoctoral researcher working in the field of peptide-based discovery for theranostic applications. My research mainly focuses on the design and development of functional peptides using combinatorial libraries and rational approaches for targeted imaging and therapy. Outside lab, I enjoy travel and exploring new places.

Fátima Santillán

Ph.D. Candidate

I’m a PhD candidate in Chemistry at Western University, designing peptide-based nanomaterials for drug delivery and molecular imaging. My work sits at the intersection of chemistry, nanotechnology, and biomedicine, where tiny structures can make a big impact. I’m driven by curiosity, problem-solving, and building things that matter. Outside the lab, you’ll find me dancing, baking, at concerts, or planning my next trip.

Priyanka Prabhu

Ph.D. Candidate

I completed my BS–MS dual degree in Chemistry at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Thiruvananthapuram, and am currently a Ph.D. candidate in Chemistry at Western University. My research focuses on developing novel imaging agents targeting fibroblast activation protein using both peptide- and small molecule-based approaches. Outside the lab, I enjoy hiking, traveling, practicing calligraphy, and exploring topics like philosophy and geopolitics.

Gazi Anika Bushra

M.Sc. Candidate

Anika received her BSc in Biology-Chemistry with honours from the University of New Brunswick in 2025. She then joined the Luyt group as a Chemistry MSc student where she is now designing staples to make alpha-helical peptides for PET and SPECT imaging. During her free time, Anika can be found reading a mystery/fantasy novel or playing Minecraft.

Ghazaleh Takalloobanafshi

Ph.D. Candidate

I completed my master’s degree in chemistry at the University of Tehran and am currently a PhD candidate in Chemistry and Molecular Imaging. My research focuses on developing 99mTc-based radiotracers for SPECT imaging of dementia and neuroinflammation. This work aims to improve access to brain imaging by synthesizing accessible SPECT tracers labeled with Tc-99m, the most widely used medical imaging radionuclide. Outside the laboratory, I enjoy reading and solving jigsaw puzzles.

Dr. Lihai Yu

Research Scientist

I received my PhD degree from Beijing Normal University majoring in Radiopharmaceuticals. I completed my Post-doc at Medicine School, Washington University at St. Louis. I take a position of the senior research associate in the group at Victoria Hospital. I am working on small molecules, peptide synthesis, radiosynthesis, and conducting animal studies. My hobby is badminton.

Kiera Drew

Research Scientist

I completed my BSc in Biochemistry at the University of Waterloo and my MSc in Genomic Medicine at Queen Mary University of London where I graduated with honours. Currently, I am working as a Research Technician assisting the Luyt research group with a variety of research activities including binding assays and cellular imaging. When I’m not in the lab, you’ll find me reading, playing board games or gardening.

Jacob Moreau

Co-op Student

Maya Diocee

NSERC USRA Student

I am a second-year student in the Honours Specialization of Biochemistry and Chemistry program at Western University. I am an Undergraduate Student Researcher working to synthesize cyclic peptide inhibitors of the Fibroblast activation protein which is upregulated in cancer. Outside of the lab, I like to make pottery and enjoy cooking.

Gavin Forrest 

USRI Student

I'm a third year Chemistry student at Western. As an Undergraduate Student Researcher I'm helping investigate co-assembled cyclic peptide nanotubes with the goal of discovering in vivo stable biomaterials. In my free time I enjoy reading and going to the gym.

Carson Timmons

Undergraduate Student Researcher

I finished my third year in the Honours Specialization in Chemistry program at Western University. I am an Undergraduate Student Researcher working to develop peptide nanomaterials to be functionalized for targeted prostate cancer imaging, with potential applications involving radio-conjugation for PET imaging. Outside of the lab, I like to collect vinyl and play guitar.