Editorial Team
2025-2026 Editorial Board
Submissions Editors
Charlin Li
Hi! My name is Charlin, and I am in my third year of the Electrical Engineering Co-op program at the University of Alberta. I am always eager to learn about the latest advancements in various fields and explore their practical applications. As a member of the Spectrum team, I am thrilled to engage with your submissions and delve into the fascinating world of research across all disciplines!
Freyja Wang
Hello! My name is Freyja and I like to dance, I go out of my way for good food, I get excited when I see a cat and I'm getting on stage for the first time this semester (for a play)! I majored in physics and minored in literature in my undergrad, and now I'm doing my master's in Interdisciplinary Studies of Science in Bielefeld University in Germany. Looking forward to spending time with your submissions!
Kevin Ding
Hi there! My name is Kevin, and I'm in my fourth year of a BSc (Hons) in Computing Science at the University of Alberta. I'm passionate about learning new things and exploring how different ideas come together in interesting ways. This is my second year as a Submissions Editor at Spectrum, and I’m excited to continue reading all the creative and thoughtful research that comes in from across disciplines!
Kritika Taparia
Hello, my name is Kritika! I studied psychology at UAlberta, and am currently a medical student at McMaster University. In my spare time, I love reading, playing badminton, and visiting local coffee shops. This is my third year as a submissions editor for Spectrum, and I'm super excited to read your submission once it comes in!
Lila Assiff
My name is Lila and I am an incoming law student at the University of Alberta. I look forward to working with authors, reviewers, and editors to support undergraduate research.
Macy Armstrong
Hi, I’m Macy! I'm studying Sociology with a minor in Science, Technology, and Society (STS), and this is my second year as a submissions editor with Spectrum. When I am not reading submissions, I can be found attempting to learn French, Spanish, and American Sign Language... With minimal success. I can’t wait to help students share their ideas and research with the world!
Salma Kleib
Hi, I'm Salma! I have a BSc in Food Business Management as of June 2025 and will begin my MSc in Resource Economics and Environmental Sociology in Fall 2025. In my free time, I love to go to the gym, take spin classes with friends, and try out new food recipes - I'm a huge foodie at heart! I'm excited for my first year with the Spectrum Editorial team, and I can't wait to read your incoming submissions!
Valerie Sytnik
My name is Valerie and I am pursuing a BA Honors in Psychology with a minor in Creative Writing. I also hold a BA Honors degree in International Business Management from the University of Nottingham. When I am not studying, I enjoy practicing yoga, watching old movies, and scribbling in my diaries. This will be my second year as a Submissions Editor for Spectrum and I look forward to an exciting year full of new research submissions!
Zaineb Al-Rufaii
Hi, I’m Zaineb (Zee for short)! I have a Bachelor of Science, and am currently pursuing my PharmD. When I’m not studying, you’ll probably find me lifting weights, sewing my next project, or getting lost in a good book (currently “Why We Sleep”). I’m excited to be part of Spectrum and can’t wait to read the incredible ideas coming our way!
Copyeditor
Francine Dela Paz
Hi, my name is Francine and I am in my fourth year pursuing a Bachelor of Arts with a major in English and double minor in Creative Writing and History. I am passionate about learning about editing and the publishing industry. This is my second year as a copyeditor for Spectrum and I look forward working with other editors and reviewers help authors publish their best work!
Production Editor
Kian Ahmadinejad
Hello! My name is Kian, and I am currently in my second year pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Honors Immunology and Infection at the University of Alberta. I am drawn to quiet moments where I can chill with a book, music or just my thoughts. This is my first year as a Production Editor for Spectrum, and I look forward to working with the team and reviewing your research submissions!
Staff Advisor/Journal Manager
Crystal Snyder, Team Lead, Undergraduate Research Initiative (University of Alberta)
Faculty Advisors
Dr. Fiona Nicoll, Professor, Political Science (Faculty of Arts, University of Alberta)
Dr. Joao Soares, Professor, Chemical and Materials Engineering (Faculty of Engineering, University of Alberta)
