From Algae to the Brain: Jinnath Rehana Ritu’s Journey as a Vanier Scholar
Vanier Scholar Jinnath Rehana Ritu, a PhD student in Biology at the University of Saskatchewan, is investigating how an algal neurotoxin called BMAA affects learning and memory using zebrafish as a model. Her research bridges environmental science and neuroscience, shedding light on the risks toxins pose to brain health. Beyond her groundbreaking work, Jinnath is an advocate for sustainability, community service, and mentorship, inspiring students in Bangladesh and beyond to pursue research with purpose and perseverance.
Jinnath Rehana Ritu, a Vanier Scholar and international PhD student in the Department of Biology at the University of Saskatchewan, is uncovering how a tiny algal neurotoxin may hold clues to brain health. Working under the supervision of Dr. Doug Chivers and Dr. Maud Ferrari, Jinnath studies β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA), a neurotoxin produced by certain algae. Using latent learning paradigms and neurochemical analyses, she explores how BMAA affects learning and memory, providing valuable insights into the neurological risks this toxin poses to both ecosystems and humans.
Jinnath’s fascination with BMAA began with the growing global threat of harmful algal blooms and the toxins they release into aquatic systems. What makes BMAA particularly dangerous is its persistence. It does not stay confined to algae but accumulates as it travels up the food chain, ultimately reaching humans and contributing to neurodegenerative diseases.
Her academic excellence has earned her several prestigious awards, including the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship (2025), Honorary Saskatchewan Innovation & Opportunity Doctoral Scholarship (2025), R. Jan F. Smith Memorial Scholarship (2025), Dean’s Doctoral Scholarship (2024), and the 75th Anniversary Entrance Scholarship (2023).
Before joining USask, Jinnath completed her undergraduate and master’s studies at Bangladesh Agricultural University, where her research on cultivating green microalgae as a sustainable fish-feed alternative marked a significant step toward environmentally responsible aquaculture.
The transition to graduate studies in Canada came with immense challenges. Adjusting to a new country, culture, and climate while being far from family brought emotional and physical difficulties. “There were days when the path felt completely overwhelming. Balancing studies, research, family responsibilities, and personal setbacks seemed impossible,” she recalls. “But giving up was never an option.”
With the support of her family, peers, and mentors, Jinnath learned to turn challenges into growth. Graduate studies strengthened her resilience, critical thinking, and communication skills, shaping her into a confident and globally minded scientist.
Beyond her research, Jinnath has shown a strong commitment to leadership and community service. She serves as Treasurer for the Biology Graduate Students’ Association, co-founded a charity initiative in Bangladesh to support orphans, and continues to lead environmental sustainability projects. She believes that every small action can create meaningful and lasting change, inspiring others to act with purpose and compassion.
Jinnath is also dedicated to mentoring Bangladeshi students who aspire to pursue higher education abroad. She envisions a future where shared knowledge drives national progress and hopes to contribute to that transformation as a researcher and leader representing Bangladesh on the global stage.
Her message to fellow graduate students: