OVC Convocation Series - Beyond the PhD: Olivia Williams on Embracing Every Opportunity
Williams’ path to the OVC has been far from ordinary. She began her PhD program at the University of Guelph’s Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology in the College of Biological Science (CBS), but transferred to OVC’s PhD in Biomedical Sciences with a Collaborative Specialization in Neuroscience following her faculty advisor, Dr. Melissa Perreault, who had moved to OVC’s Department of Biomedical Sciences to expand her research.
Perreault’s research focuses on the pathology of neuropsychiatric and neurodevelopmental conditions, and sex-specific differences in these disorders. Her research uniquely integrates multiple methodologies, such as studying behaviour and biological systems, to capture the most holistic view of the mechanisms underlying neuropsychiatric disorders. Perreault is also dedicated to including and uplifting Indigenous voices in research.
Perreault’s dedication to inclusivity and studying sex-specific differences in neuroscience inspired Williams to do the same. Her research with Perreault focused on sex-specific differences in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While researching this topic, Williams found two innovative novel therapies for ASD, one of which is currently patent-pending. Reflecting on her research, Williams says that Perreault’s unique approach to studying neuropsychiatry fostered a unique learning environment to study the nervous system.
When asked about working with Williams, Perreault emphasized her skills as a researcher, as well as her uniquely positive nature. “Olivia is undoubtedly an exceptional researcher and colleague,” shares Perreault. “However, she also exhibits true authenticity both as a leader and a peer, a quality that is derived from empathy and a giving and supportive nature,” she adds.
Outside of her research, Williams has dedicated herself to connecting with faculty, staff and students throughout her time at OVC. “I was almost obsessed with being a friendly face and building connections with everyone on OVC’s campus,” shares Williams.
Williams didn’t limit herself to building a community within OVC. Rather, she worked to build connections between different colleges and departments at the U of G. One way she did this was by volunteering for the CBS mentorship program, which pairs undergraduate students with graduate students in similar fields of study. She says that outside of her PhD studies, this experience was a crucial learning opportunity, as it taught her the power of interdisciplinary collaboration.
Outside of her PhD studies with the OVC, Williams poured herself into her passion for aviation – working to upgrade her private pilot license to have a night rating, allowing her to fly whenever she wants. When she isn’t flying, Williams is a dedicated advocate for women and girls in aviation.
As her time as a graduate student with the OVC comes to a close, Williams reflects on the skills she has gained throughout her PhD. She recalls a time when her work was rejected from a scientific journal, because they questioned the validity of the animal model she used for autism. Rather than allowing herself to become discouraged by the rejection, she simply pivoted to a different journal that was more aligned with her work. “That experience inadvertently prepared me for my PhD defense, because I felt prepared to explain the validity of my model” says Williams.
Williams is an example of the power of embracing every opportunity, both personally and educationally. Williams feels that her dedication to leading a full life outside of her education has ultimately contributed to her success as a student. “Academia can be very challenging and consuming, but surrounding yourself with positivity can reframe your state of being,” shares Williams. Over the past 10 years spent at U of G, she has made a lasting impact through her research, volunteer work and positive nature.
