You’ve probably never heard of Sjögren’s Disease, but it affects approximately 1% of the population and is often overlooked. This prevalent autoimmune disease affects the whole body as white blood cells attack body tissue, damaging the glands where tears and saliva are produced. Dry eyes that feel gritty, and a dry mouth that makes eating difficult are two of the most common symptoms.
The challenge of treating Sjögren's Disease lies in its complexity. It overlaps with other diseases, and no two patients experience the same symptoms or symptom severity—giving it a higher chance of being overlooked during diagnosis. This is where Ivy Vong’s research comes in. As a Master of Science in Vision Science student, Vong is investigating a faster way to differentiate between Sjögren’s Disease-related dry eyes and non-autoimmune disease-related dry eyes.
Ivy Vong (she/her), Master of Science in Vision Science student
Ivy Vong (she/her), Master of Science in Vision Science student
Ivy Vong (she/her), Master of Science in Vision Science student
Ivy Vong (she/her), Master of Science in Vision Science student
Her research can help deepen the medical community’s understanding of the disease and improve the time it takes for patients to receive the care they need. Receiving an early diagnosis is important because it can prevent more serious complications of the disease like chronic pain, neuropathy, and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma.
Vong’s interest in eye health began during her undergraduate degree in biomedical science at the University of Waterloo. While working at an optometry clinic, she recognized the importance of managing chronic ocular diseases. And as an ophthalmic scribe for a uveitis specialist, her passion for research grew through mentorship that highlighted the complexity of autoimmune ocular diseases. These experiences led her to pursue a research-based master’s degree at Waterloo.
What is the working relationship like with your supervisor, Dr. William Ngo?
I really like working with Dr. Ngo. He's a wonderful person and provides me with guidance whenever I need it. I really appreciate that he's helping me become a better researcher.
Tell us about your passion for teaching and where it stems from.
When pursuing my undergraduate degree, I was conflicted about either pursuing a career as an optometrist or as a university professor. I already had a lot of experience in a classroom as a French instructor at a private institution for Grades 7-8 and I enjoyed seeing my students progress from being uncomfortable with their pronunciation, to confidently reading out text passages. I wanted to make an impact at the post-secondary level and support students in their learning before they go into the workforce, professional school, or other career paths, and so I pursued a Master of Education at Ontario Tech University.
What are you looking forward to in the future regarding your studies?
I am looking forward to continuing in academia! I would like to do a PhD, then secure a post-doc position, with the end goal of becoming a faculty member at a university.
How do you like to spend your time outside your studies?
In my role as treasurer for Graduates in Vision Science (GIVS) I help organize fun student events. I also really like reading, have a passion for philosophy and enjoy café hopping around Waterloo Region.
Interested in conducting research in graduate school? Read about the available research project opportunities and graduate programs in the Faculty of Science at the University of Waterloo.