JOIN THE TEAM!

We are always looking for artists, scientists, and change makers to join our team! Email us at [email protected]​

Dr. Viraj Muthye (he/him/his)

Founder and Science Communicator

Originally from India, Viraj has lived in the US, where he earned his Masters and Ph.D., and moved to Canada in 2021 to explore the mystery of fish parasites in Calgary. He is passionate about science communication, arts, and teaching. When he is not working in the lab, he is exploring the amazing art scene Calgary has to offer. He is a writer and has published a book of poems in English in India. He is excited to bring his extensive experience in science, arts, and communication, to spearhead STEAM initiatives in Calgary. 

Personal Website

Alisha camm-stokes

Designer

Alisha moved from the UK to Calgary in September 2023 and hasn't waited around to explore everything the city and mountains have to offer. When she's not out hiking, running, or rock climbing, she'll be at her art desk painting or honing her graphic design and typography skills. Alisha is thrilled to be combining her love of art and design with her background in Biomedical Sciences and Nutrition to support the Creative Science Alliance's work across the city.
I was immediately drawn to the CSA when I saw that Viraj was striving to bring creativity and the sciences together. Having been a scientist and researcher through my education and early career, and now exploring more of my deep-seated passion for art and design, I truly believe the two disciplines can not only co-exist, but complement each other. And an organization with a mission to bring that to children as early as possible to support their growth and creative development is certainly one I knew I wanted to be a part of.

As a huge outdoor enthusiast and wildlife lover, it was a delight to create the CSA's Treasure Hunt activity booklet to get families out exploring their local area and learning about the different flora and fauna. It was such a rewarding project to work on, and to see such positive engagement from children and parents alike has only helped to reaffirm for me the valuable impact that the CSA is having on Calgary's communities.
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- Alisha Camm-Stokes

LINDSEY MCDONALD

Website Developer

Lindsey McDonald is a nature nerd with a background in graphic design. Acquiring a degree in environmental science sparked her fascination with the threads connecting everything and everyone. She spends her time outdoors as much as possible, hiking, biking, cross country skiing, and identifying flora and fauna along the way. She is happy to take on any project that combines art and science, from web design to infographics to embroidery art. ​

Dr. hayley gorman

Science Communicator

Dr. Hayley Gorman is a postdoctoral fellow in Microbiology and Infectious Diseases at the University of Calgary, where she studies how the intestinal mucus barrier protects against infection. Her research focuses on host–parasite interactions, particularly how pathogens  overcome the body’s natural defenses and how mucus-associated proteins help maintain gut health. Dr. Gorman has received numerous national awards and scholarships for her work and has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications in immunology and microbiology. Beyond the lab, she is passionate about science communication and community outreach, regularly visiting schools, mentoring students, and engaging the public through hands-on events to make microbiology accessible and exciting.

Nathan Mission

Science Communicator 
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Born and raised in Mohkinstsis (Calgary), Nathan has always been drawn to the natural world. As a child, Nathan loved exploring his backyard and discovering the various forms of life around him. Over the years, his curiosity developed into love and appreciation for all living things. 
To Nathan, the intersection between science and art is clear. Nathan is an avid aquarium hobbyist who draws on nature as inspiration for his builds. With the aquarium as his canvas, Nathan uses aquascaping as a medium to express his creativity by creating dynamic ecosystems that are both functional and appealing.
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With a background in biological sciences and 8 years of experience working in the disability sector, Nathan hopes to share his passion for science and nature with the Creative Science Alliance and is committed to building community connections in a safe, inclusive environment.
Working with the Creative Science Alliance has been a truly rewarding experience. I’ve had the opportunity to help facilitate engaging activities for the VIVO Water Wonders summer camp and support a recent workshop for graduate students at the U of C Graduate College, both of which highlighted the organization’s commitment to making science accessible and community-focused. The team is collaborative, passionate, and dedicated to creating meaningful connections through science. I’ve found the experience both enjoyable and impactful.
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- Nathan Mission