Noah Brittain
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I have always been interested in working in the healthcare sector, but I realized that my interest lay far more in the research side than in the clinic. By pursuing a graduate degree, I have been able to develop my research and career skills while also having the opportunity to work on fascinating projects with world-class researchers.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
UBC is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in both Canada as well as the world. In part, this is due to the fact that it serves as a major research hub. This has allowed me to not only learn and work with world-leaders in my own faculty but also from a variety of disciplines, which has really enabled me to grow as a scientist.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
I came to the Pharmaceutical Sciences program for my supervisor, Dr. Joel Finbloom. Working under his supervision allowed me to develop a multidisciplinary thesis encompassing my two major areas of interest: drug development and the gut microbiome. In addition, Pharmaceutical Sciences is a truly multidisciplinary faculty, enabling me to learn and work with experts in a variety of research fields, from translational drug delivery to fundamental biology.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
My biggest surprise was the sense of community in my faculty. The Pharmaceutical Sciences community is not only filled with brilliant researchers but also really kind and welcoming people. By having this kind of environment it has enabled me to grow not only as a scientist but made the graduate school process so much more enjoyable.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
The largest aspect of my life that prepared me for graduate school was my undergraduate research. Graduate school is difficult because you're expected to develop a novel thesis and figure out and perform all of the experiments to get there. Knowing even just the fundamentals of doing a research project really allows you to hit the ground running.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Graduate studies is a difficult process, and you'll have many challenges along the way; however, finding a support system can make it a lot easier. I would really recommend trying to find some community, whether that's lab mates, other graduate students, or even your principal investigator. Having people who are there to support you makes the process so much easier and more enjoyable.
