Sanjay Beesoon

Dr. Sanjay Beesoon, ‘14 PhD
Graduate Studies Representative

Sanjay Beesoon came to Canada in 2008 as an International student, to study for a PhD in the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, which he completed in 2013. Prior to coming to Canada, Sanjay completed 3 other post-secondary qualifications in 3 different countries, namely: Medical Laboratory Technology diploma in the Island of Mauritius, BSc in Biochemistry and Microbiology at the University of South Africa and a Master in Public Health (specializing in Epidemiology) at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (USA) under a Fulbright Scholarship. In his current role as Assistant Scientific Director in Alberta Health Services, Sanjay works tirelessly to bridge the divide between academic research and health care delivery. 

The University of Alberta has been incredibly welcoming and supportive to Sanjay and his family, which ultimately led to his wife graduating with a Master in Library and Information Studies and his second daughter, graduating with a BSc (Hons) in Medical Laboratory Science. His other daughter started her BCom degree with the Faculté St Jean and his son is volunteering in the Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences. Our friends and family call it a “Love Story” between “The Beesoons” and the University of Alberta.

Sanjay is passionate about community uplifting and empowerment. He has served the community in several ways. He was Graduate Students’ Association representative on the Committee for the Learning Environment and served on sub-Committee "Assessment and Grading at the University of Alberta: policies, practices, and possibilities”. He has volunteered with the International Students Office to welcome and find accommodations for new International Students and was an active member of the student group “Making Poverty History” on the University of Alberta campus. 

As a member of the Alumni council, Sanjay looks forward to playing an active role in building programs that will enable U of A graduates to successfully transition from their studies into the Canadian workforce.