Meet 2 Concordia PhD candidates receiving the Black Student Excellence Doctoral Entrance Award

‘I hope to contribute to a more inclusive academic environment for other students of colour’ 

Tristin Best 

PhD Candidate in Psychology 

Where are you from, and how did you begin your academic path? 

Tristin Best: I'm originally from Calgary, but I have been living in Montreal for more than 10 years. My academic journey started later in life. I began as an independent student at Concordia, switched into philosophy and then completed a Bachelor of Science in Behavioural Neuroscience.  

My interest in dementia research led me to pursue a master’s degree at McGill University, which eventually brought me back to Concordia for a PhD in Clinical Psychology. 

Why did you choose Concordia? 

TB: Concordia's clinical psychology program has a great reputation, and working with Natalie Phillips on dementia research was a perfect match for my interests. Plus, Montreal’s diversity makes the experience even more enriching. 

What is your research about?

TB: I’m investigating the link between the loss of sense of smell and cognitive decline in individuals at risk for Alzheimer’s disease. My research explores how changes in the brain, particularly in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, may be related to olfactory dysfunction and cognitive decline, using MRI technology to study these processes. 

What does this fellowship mean to you? 

TB: This fellowship allows me to fully focus on my research and clinical training without the financial pressure of working part-time. It also gives me the freedom to participate in other important initiatives, such as Concordia's equity, diversity and inclusion efforts in the Department of Psychology. 

What are your goals for the next four years? 

TB: I hope to build on my research and clinical skills and contribute to a more inclusive academic environment for other students of colour. I also aim to develop meaningful research that advances understanding of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. 

‘My goal is to find accessible therapies for individuals across different socioeconomic backgrounds’ 

Alicia Wright 

PhD Candidate in Health and Exercise Science 

 

Where are you from, and how has your academic journey unfolded? 

Alicia Wright: I was born and raised in LaSalle. My academic journey started with a love for science, sports and music in high school, where I was co-valedictorian. I struggled a bit during my transition to college but completed the Health Science program (now called the Health and Life Science program) at Vanier College.  

I later earned both a bachelor's and a master's degree in exercise science at Concordia, specializing in athletic therapy and clinical exercise physiology. I am currently a kinesiologist and coordinator in the Conditioning Floor Area at Concordia's School of Health and I decided to pursue my PhD after finding the right research opportunity. 

Why did you choose Concordia? 

AW: I've had a great experience here as a graduate student and an employee. When a four-year funding opportunity aligned with my research interests in health promotion and physical activity, it was the perfect opportunity to pursue my doctoral studies. 

What is your research about? 

AW: My research focuses on reducing chronic low back pain — a leading cause of disability worldwide — by improving hip strength and mobility. I'm conducting a 12-week study comparing the effects of outdoor walking and indoor treadmill walking on hip mobility and lower back pain. My goal is to find accessible therapies for individuals across different socioeconomic backgrounds. 

What does receiving this fellowship mean to you? 

AW: It validates my work and provides me with the opportunity to contribute to higher education as a Black researcher. It's an occasion to make an impact in both academia and my community by advocating for more fellowship opportunities for underrepresented groups. I am extremely grateful for this award. 

What are your goals for the next four years? 

AW: I want to make a lasting impact in health research by improving accessible therapies for chronic conditions like low back pain. I aim to explore how these interventions can benefit diverse populations, including underserved communities, and identify solutions that are effective across different socioeconomic backgrounds.  

By publishing impactful research, presenting internationally and securing major funding, I hope to drive meaningful change — whether through a postdoctoral position at Concordia or by contributing to national health policy with the Public Health Agency of Canada.  


Find out more about Concordia’s Black Student Excellence Doctoral Entrance Award.