Meet the Team
ANGELA RUSSOLILLO MSc, PhD
Michael Smith Health Research: Health Professional – Investigator
Dr. Angela Russolillo is an Assistant Professor in the School of Nursing at the University of British Columbia, specializing in health services research. Her clinical training and experience inform her research program, which focuses on health services use among individuals with psychiatric and substance use disorders. Dr. Russolillo aims to reduce disparities in mental health and substance use treatment through health services reform, advocacy, and the integration of evidence-based practices.
As a Michael Smith Health Research: Health Professional–Investigator, Dr. Russolillo collaborates on initiatives to improve patient outcomes by promoting comprehensive and compassionate care. Her research not only advances academic knowledge but also influences health policy and practice, providing practical solutions for better health services delivery and patient care.
MEGAN DAVIS
PhD Student
I am a German-trained psychologist, currently pursuing my PhD with the Department of Psychiatry at McGill University. My doctoral work explores the mental health effects and motivators of video game streaming among youth in Quebec. Additional research projects I am working on focus on themes such as psychosis, stigma, substance use, co-design, and virtual care.
Degree or Program of Study: PhD in Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University & Douglas Hospital Research Centre
Thesis/Project title or Research Focus: Youth Mental Health, Digital Culture, Psychosis, Gamified Technologies
OLIVIA HALE
Clinical Research Program Manager
Olivia brings over a decade of experience in project management and research leadership to her current role as Clinical Research Program Manager in the School of Nursing at the University of British Columbia. She has overseen the development and execution of high-impact international research projects spanning a range of interdisciplinary themes including mental health, nutrition, education, emergency medicine, substance use, and pediatric health.
Her work is guided by a commitment to advancing rigorous, innovative research that addresses complex health challenges and contributes to meaningful societal change.
Degree or Program of Study: MSc, Education Research, The University of Edinburgh
LEIANA HOSHYARI
BSN Student
Leiana is currently completing her Bachelor of Science in Biology at UBC. For the past two years, she has worked as a research assistant, exploring various disease groups, including respiratory and mental health. She hopes to pursue a career in healthcare while integrating research to enhance patient care and advance healthcare solutions. Outside of work, she enjoys working out and exploring different cafes around town.
Degree or Program of Study: Bachelor of Sciences, Biology
Thesis/Project title or Research Focus: Mental health and respiratory
LEEANNE PARRIS RPN(C)
Research Coordinator, CCD Study
Leeanne studied at the University of Brighton, UK to become a Registered Psychiatric Nurse. She moved to Canada in 2013 and pursued her career in Clinical Research. Over the past 8 years, Leeanne has worked in Clinical Research, currently as a Project Manager with Advancing Health Outcomes. She works with a variety of disease groups including Mental Health and Substance Misuse, Cardiac, HIV, Anesthesiology, Respiratory. She is also the PM and consult for the development and start up of the new Phase 1 Clinical Trial Unit at MSJ.
Degree or Program of Study: Registered Mental Health Nurse UK – Clinical Research Project Manager