Dr. Amul Patel and Dr. Nita Patel
For Amul and Nita, the journey to establishing this fund is both personal and heartfelt. Having seen firsthand how early exposure to research can shape confidence, curiosity, and career aspirations, they are proud to support young learners at the University of Lethbridge.
Dr. Amul Patel is a psychiatrist and Department Head for Addiction and Mental Health with Recovery Alberta in Lethbridge. He completed his medical and psychiatric training in India and gained further experience in the United Kingdom before making Lethbridge his home nearly a decade ago. Dr. Nita Patel earned her PhD in Polymer Chemistry in India and previously worked as a university lecturer. She now plays a vital role in supporting their clinical practice and family.
Their children, Karma and Khushi, both benefited from University of Lethbridge programs such as iGEM and HYRS. These experiences helped nurture their interest in medicine—Karma is currently in medical school, and Khushi will begin her medical training in the coming year.
Grateful for the opportunities their family received, the Patels created this fund to help other young students discover the excitement of research. Through awards supporting both high school and undergraduate participants, and in honour of Amul’s parents, the fund reflects their family’s deep belief that encouragement, opportunity, and education can inspire the next generation to make meaningful contributions to the world.
Impact
The High School iGEM Award is dedicated to Dr. Amul Patel’s mother, Meena Patel, whose lifelong dedication and selfless commitment to her children’s education have been a constant source of inspiration. At a young age, she made significant personal sacrifices to support her children’s schooling and ensure they had the opportunities needed to succeed. Her unwavering encouragement and belief in the value of education helped lay the foundation for their academic and professional accomplishments. She continues to be a strong and supportive presence for her family.
This award reflects her enduring commitment to nurturing young minds and the belief that early encouragement and opportunity can shape a student’s future. By supporting high school students participating in iGEM at the University of Lethbridge, the award aims to inspire curiosity, confidence, and a passion for scientific exploration among the next generation of learners.
The University iGEM Award is dedicated to Dr. Amul Patel’s father, Karsanbhai Maganlal Patel, whose wisdom and guidance continue to inspire his family. A man of vision and strong values, he recognized the importance of education early in his children’s lives and ensured that they were provided with every opportunity to succeed. Through his encouragement and commitment, both Amul and his brother, Anand, went on to pursue successful careers in medicine.
This award reflects his belief that investing in education and nurturing young talent leads to meaningful achievement and lasting contributions to society. By supporting undergraduate students participating in the University of Lethbridge iGEM program, the award aims to foster innovation, scientific curiosity, and excellence in research among the next generation of scientists.