Luna Taguchi (she/her), Mideo Lab

What do you study? I use mathematical models to understand the variety of parasites and the infections they cause. 

What does this mean you do day to day? This usually means I’m scribbling a bunch of mathematical models on paper, or staring at code on a screen. Sometimes, I get to draw colourful shapes on the lab’s white board to describe these relationships.

When you’re not staring at equations, how do you spend your time? I love going on walks and bike rides around my neighbourhood, exploring new cafes in search of a perfect London Fog, cooking Japanese dishes, and baking with chocolate. On weekends when the weather is good, I am endlessly weeding my backyard or teaching my dogs tricks for treats.

Why did you take on this committee work? Having a community of supportive and understanding individuals made a huge difference in the early days of my graduate studies, and continues to do so. The experience I had is thanks to the advocacy and effort that many people from the past put into fostering a supportive culture. I hope to be a part of the continued effort.   

How would I find you if I need to? You can find me in my office ESC 2055. Online,  you can reach out to me via Slack or send me an email (luna.taguchi@mail.utoronto.ca)