Joanna Spyra, PhD

Experience

• 

  Digital Music Lab

  Apr 2013 - May 2023

  Researcher; Research Coordinator

  • Independently oversaw 20 research projects by employing systematic planning based on the research question and working with cost-effective approaches, gathering quantitative data, and coding qualitative data by interpreting written responses.• Gained mastery of research methods and statistics, from t-tests to machine learning and linear mixed effects models; taught research methods for 4 years and mentored teams in the creation of 51 observational studies.• Successfully spearheaded projects across disciplines into virtual experimentation during the pandemic through quick and independent learning, and have gathered qualitative and quantitative data from 1,198 participants.• Skilled science communicator with the ability to distill complex information into widely accessible formats, resulting in 8 peer-reviewed manuscripts and 17 international conference presentations and posters.• Interviewed, hired, trained, and managed diverse research teams, mentored 15 undergraduate students, and regularly collaborated with, and supported, cross-functional teams resulting in a broad international network and collaborative opportunities. Show less

• 

  McMaster University

  Sept 2016 - Apr 2022

  • Earned a certificate in Teaching & Learning from the McPherson Institute which resulted in a 7% higher performance in my classes compared to similar fourth-year classes; taught 368 students over 8 years.• Taught a class of 31 students, on a topic of my own choosing (advanced science communication), having developed the course in its entirety; also volunteered as a university course curriculum co-developer for 4 years.• Engaged in active learning techniques, as well as open discussion formats resulting in positive feedback from students, mentorship requests, and 22 requests to act as an academic reference.• Successfully navigated the early transition from virtual to in-person learning, keeping the students safety and uninterrupted learning experience at top priority, working with individuals with equity while working within the requirements of the university. Show less • Actively engaged in Scholarship of Teaching & Learning by being open to feedback and crafting expertise in storytelling and classroom dynamics, teaching 9 classes and 10 workshops.• Led teams of 24 teaching and research assistants through meticulous organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks and time for the team resulting in an appointment as Lead Teaching Assistant. • Successful mentor having brought 7 honors thesis projects to completion with A-A+ grades by focusing on the needs of the project, the individual and providing personalized guidance.• Demonstrated cutting-edge Parkinson’s dance technology to children’s educational camps in a STEM outreach program. Show less

  • Sessional Lecturer

    Jan 2022 - Apr 2022

  • Teaching Assistant

    Sept 2016 - Apr 2022