Program:
MSc student
Research Theme:
Molecular and Systems Pharmacology
Prior Education:
Bachelor of Science (Major in Biology), UBC
Hometown:
Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
"We have professors with very diverse research interests, which I have found helpful for gaining insight into various research areas and further deciding what I want my niche to be as a researcher."
What inspired you to pursue a graduate degree in the field of pharmaceutical sciences? Why did you choose UBC Pharm Sci?
Throughout my undergraduate education, there were two key research interests that emerged for me. One was a deep interest in how we can repurpose molecular biological tools found in nature for novel functions, and the second was a desire to develop treatments for diseases that currently lack any effective therapeutics. This brought me to the field of gene editing and its therapeutic applications, which I found to be an ideal synthesis of those two research interests. With the advancement of technology, gene editing therapies are already starting to enter clinical trials. As clinical applications of gene editing continue to expand, knowledge and expertise in the pharmaceutical sciences field would be of great value.
My decision to study at Pharm Sci was driven by the experience working in my current supervisor Dr. Colin Ross’s lab during the last year of my undergraduate studies. I enjoyed the work I was doing in the lab and the people I was working with, so I thought it would be great to pursue my master’s at Pharm Sci. Additionally, having already known some graduate students at that time, I had heard several positive things about the community here, which further reinforced my decision to apply.
What has been your favorite Pharm Sci class so far?
Applied Omics Science for Drug Discovery and Development.
Coming from more of a molecular biology/genetics background, it was great to have a course that highlights the intersection of these fields within the pharmaceutical sciences.
What is your research project about?
My research broadly focuses on the use of gene editing tools as a method to treat genetic disorders. In the last ten or so years, there have been incredible advancements in our ability to edit the genome, to the point where we can now, in principle, correct around 90% of disease-causing mutations. However, doing this in a therapeutic context requires delivery methods that can bring the gene editing machinery to the desired tissues and cell types. Through collaborations with gene delivery experts within Pharm Sci and at UBC, our lab is focused on developing state-of-the-art gene editing therapeutics that can safely and effectively treat genetic disorders.
What has been the highlight of your time at Pharm Sci so far?
I would have to say the highlight for me has been our community of graduate students! There are a lot of great people here that play a big role in making the program an enjoyable experience for the whole student body!
What are some fun activities you enjoy doing in and around Vancouver?
Running is one of my favourite things to spend time on outside of the lab. I’m an avid runner and Vancouver’s mild winters make it easy to keep doing this year-round, which is something I really appreciate. In general, I find staying active and getting outside to be incredibly important for my wellbeing and Vancouver is an excellent city for this. The surrounding mountains and parks are also truly stellar, with an abundance of beautiful hikes to go on!
How has the program helped you feel more prepared to enter the specific area you would like to go into after graduation?
The breadth of research offered within our graduate program has played a large role here. We have professors with very diverse research interests, which I have found helpful for gaining insight into various research areas and further deciding what I want my niche to be as a researcher. I have also had the opportunity to spend my time focusing on topics and techniques that are the most relevant to my own work and goals. Additionally, there’s ample room to tailor your coursework to what you’re specifically interested in.
What advice would you give to someone who’s considering pursuing graduate studies at UBC Pharm Sci?
I think the first thing would be to reach out to potential supervisors that are conducting research you’re interested in. Speak with them and their lab members to ensure that you’ll enjoy the lab’s current research and—just as importantly—the lab’s working environment and culture. The relationship you have with your supervisor and lab mates will have one of the biggest impacts on how much you enjoy your graduate school experience. If everything seems good in that regard, and you’re excited about the research, then go for it!