Karolina Wawrzyczek
Research Coordinator Psychology researcher, research assistant, and research collaborator in developmental psychology, behavioural science, and inherited metabolic disorders.
Ontario, Canada Last updated: October 2026
Professional Profile
Karolina Wawrzyczek is a psychology researcher and Research Coordinator with CanPKU+. She graduated from Trent University in 2025 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and an outstanding academic record. Her research experience spans developmental psychology, social cognition, behavioural science, clinical intervention, research methodology, and quantitative analysis. She currently holds research appointments at McMaster University, Toronto Metropolitan University, and Trent University. Through CanPKU+, Karolina contributes to research and knowledge translation concerning rare inherited metabolic disorders, including homocystinuria (HCU) and phenylketonuria (PKU). Her work connects scientific evidence with patient-reported experiences and accessible educational resources for families. Her long-term professional goal is to pursue clinical psychology, combining scientific research with meaningful improvements in the lives of children and families. Research AppointmentsResearch Assistant, McMaster University
Research Assistant, Toronto Metropolitan University
Research Assistant, Trent University
Research Assistant, Trent UniversitySupported research investigating EEG patterns associated with listening effort. CanPKU+ Research and Knowledge TranslationResearch Coordinator, CanPKU+Supports research and educational initiatives involving inherited metabolic disorders, with an emphasis on connecting scientific evidence, patient experiences, and accessible information for individuals and families.
Classical Homocystinuria Behavioural ResearchCharacterizing Behavioural Manifestations in Classical Homocystinuria using Patient-Reported Data Co-author of a scientific poster presented at the Annual Symposium of the Society for the Study of Inborn Errors of Metabolism (SSIEM). The research examines behavioural manifestations associated with classical homocystinuria through patient-reported information, contributing to understanding experiences beyond biochemical and clinical measurements. Mental Health MattersEducational Resource Creator and Presenter Independently researched, developed, and presented the Mental Health Matters educational handout for Camp MagniPHEque participants. The resource explored mental health challenges associated with rare metabolic disorders, the protective role of social support, and the importance of community connection.
Publications and Research PresentationsCharacterizing Behavioural Manifestations in Classical Homocystinuria using Patient-Reported DataInternational scientific poster examining behavioural manifestations of classical homocystinuria using patient-reported data. Valued Living Questionnaire Under Review: Is the Composite Score Meaningful?Research contribution presented through the Canadian Psychological Association. Evaluating the Physician in Triage Role at Peterborough Regional Health Centre Emergency DepartmentContributed to the research proposal and data analysis strategy in collaboration with Dr. Daniel Wawrzyczek and Dr. Andrew Romanowski. The project evaluated the physician-in-triage role in emergency department care. Undergraduate Honours ThesisInvestigated post-traumatic growth among undergraduate students during the COVID-19 pandemic using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as a theoretical framework. Supervisor: Dr. Kateryna Keefer Mental Health MattersCreated and presented a research-informed educational resource on mental health, social support, and community connection among people affected by rare metabolic disorders. Clinical and Professional ExperienceInstructor Therapist, On Solid GroundDelivered Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy-informed services to children and adolescents with autism, supported through the Ontario Autism Program.
Honours, Scholarships, and Academic RecognitionCanadian Graduate Scholarship - Master'sScholarship offered and declined. Canadian Psychological Association Certificate of Academic ExcellenceRecognized for outstanding academic achievement and undergraduate thesis research in psychology. Symons Medal, PsychologyAcademic recognition for exceptional achievement in psychology. Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council AwardResearch award obtained with support from Dr. Kateryna Keefer. Leadership and Community InvolvementPresident, Trent Thrifts
Clothing Coordinator, Trent University Feminist Association
Selected Skills and Areas of ExpertiseDevelopmental psychology
Behavioural research
Research design
Quantitative data analysis
Statistical interpretation
Participant recruitment
Research coordination
Research ethics documentation
Scientific writing
Scientific poster development
Patient-reported outcomes
Knowledge translation
Applied Behaviour Analysis
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Child socio-emotional development
EducationTrent UniversityOverall GPA: 96.35% Completed undergraduate thesis research under Dr. Kateryna Keefer examining post-traumatic growth and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. St. Peter's Secondary SchoolGraduated with English and French Immersion diplomas. Languages
English
Fluent
French
Professional working proficiency
Polish
Native or bilingual proficiency |
