Pauline Kosmal Position/Title: Post-doctoral Scholar email: pkosmal@uoguelph.ca Phone: Office: ANNU 139 Research Gate LinkedIn Twitter

I am a three-time University of Guelph graduate (BSc, 2019; MSc, 2020 in ABio; PhD, 2023 in ABio), and a current postdoctoral fellow in Dr. Anna Kate Shoveller's lab studying blueberry powder to support the health and well-being of dogs and cats. Blueberries are an excellent source of dietary polyphenols (secondary metabolites found in the cell wall of plants) which have recently gained interest for their applications in human health due to their impact on inflammation and oxidation. Nutrition claims often support the inclusion of blueberries in diets as a source of antioxidants however, little research has been conducted to support some of these claims in pet foods. Therefore, we are investigating the use of blueberry powder as a source of quercetin, a flavonoid polyphenol, and its effects on dog and cat metabolism and immunity.

My PhD used a mixed-methods approach to create evidence-informed practices to improve the health and welfare of eastern cottontails (Sylvilagus floridanus) in wildlife rehabilitation. Eastern cottontails have one of the poorest outcomes in wildlife rehabilitation, and we were focused on determining why that is, and how we could improve practice. By combining biological data (microbiome and necropsy studies) with rehabilitator experience and knowledge access (surveys and interviews), we created accessible and relevant research for wildlife professionals. This research project was supervised by Dr. Shoshanah Jacobs, and Dr. Sherri Cox in the Department of Integrative Biology, and supported by committee members Dr. Wendy Pearson and Dr. Trevor DeVries in the Department of Animal Biosciences. I have worked alongside four different wildlife rehabilitation centers in Ontario, with a variety of species, from small rodents to large carnivores. I have a strong passion for teaching, and animal science research, having completed many TA assignments and Guest Lectures in the Departments of Animal Biosciences and Integrative Biology.

Outside of the University, I am an executive member of the Ontario Chapter of the Wildlife Society (OCTWS) and am fulfilling the role of vice president for the 2022-2024 term (former secretary; 2020-2021). I am also a University of Guelph cheerleading assistant coach and enjoy spending time with my two domestic rabbits; Benjamin and Chompers.