Jasty Singh
Spotlight on Members of the Trinity Community: Jasty Singh
Posted February 10, 2025
U of T Immunology Professor Jasty Singh had a full-circle moment a few years ago. In 2020, Jasty taught the course IMM250: The Immune System and Infectious Disease for the first time. It was this undergraduate course – that she took when U of T first offered it over a decade prior – that ignited her interest in the immune system and her future career.
“As an undergraduate, I was not a student who knew what they wanted. Taking IMM250 and discovering its real-world relevance – immunology – just made sense,” said Jasty, who graduated with a major in Immunology, and went on to complete a PhD and postdoctoral fellowship at U of T. “When I started studying immunology, it was a relatively new field. Now this cross-disciplinary field intersects with all life sciences – biology, engineering and medicine – and with everything we know about the human body.”
Currently Associate Professor, Teaching Stream in Department of Immunology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine at the University of Toronto, she is also Associate Chair, Undergraduate Studies in Immunology and Trinity College’s Director, Immunology Program and Fellow of the college. Trinity has been sponsoring the interdisciplinary Immunology undergraduate program on behalf of the Faculty of Arts & Science since 1984.
“My approach to teaching is heavily influenced by my own experiences as an undergraduate student,” Jasty said. “Connecting with students reminds me why I do what I do. Teaching is about being relatable and learning how students learn best. It is about active learning and looking for ways to engage students in class and to build their confidence.”
Jasty’s pedagogical research focuses on data and statistical literacy – how students engage with statistics and quantitative data in research in the life sciences. She designs and teaches undergraduate and graduate courses where she incorporates creative active learning techniques, case studies and video-based modules. Her research also includes building cross-disciplinary collaborations with developmental biologists, statisticians and engineers, and exploring emerging fields such as immunoengineering. In fact, she would say it’s crucial for immunologists to develop collaboration skills with those in these other fields who have completely different skills and expertise.
Along with expanding hands-on research opportunities for students, she is also looking at ways to make the immunology curriculum more accessible: “My goal is to create inclusive and engaging learning atmospheres that foster personal connections, encourage interdisciplinary exploration and promote ongoing intellectual curiosity.”
From the beginning of their studies to the end of their degrees, Jasty is invested in her students’ growth. “Students who thrive in this field are curious by nature, have an intrinsic willingness to learn and do research, and pay attention to details,” Jasty said, noting that many of her students go on to study medicine, enroll in graduate school, and enter the work force where they leverage their scientific background as consultants, in government roles and in investment banking.
Recently, Jasty received an U of T Cheryl Regehr Early Career Teaching Award, which recognizes faculty members who are effective teachers and demonstrate an exceptional commitment to student learning, pedagogical engagement, and teaching innovation. “Receiving this type of award was humbling and it’s an honor to represent the Department of Immunology and Trinity College. The award also represents the incredible support of community, and I am grateful for all the support I have received, including from my students,” she said.
Rapid Fire Questions with Jasty Singh
- What advice would you give your first-year undergraduate student self? Explore
- Tell us one thing about yourself that few people know. I have a twin brother
- Are you a dog or cat person? Both
- Which super power would you most like to have? Mind reading
- What is your favourite treat or indulgence? Anything sweet (I have a sweet tooth)
- What is the one thing that you look forward to every day? The sense of calm in the early morning – I get up at 5:30 am
- What do you enjoy doing the most during your down time? Travelling, sports, cooking and gardening
- What is your favourite place on campus? Philosopher’s Walk
Photo above: supplied
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