Milos Simovic
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I decided to pursue a PhD in Botany because I aspired to become a research scientist. My interest in plant ecophysiology was sparked by reading the 5th Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Assessment Report in 2017. The report highlighted various ways trees and forests can mitigate climate change, such as absorbing excess carbon from the atmosphere and reducing the intensity of heatwaves in cities through evaporative cooling. It also noted the risks of forest decline and widespread mortality, emphasizing the many unknowns about how trees and forests will both affect and be affected by climate change. This was a wake-up call for me. While I had always been interested in plants, this report gave my interest a new urgency and direction. I wanted to conduct research that would be useful in mitigating the effects of climate change and improve our scientific understanding of how plants function. I have been dedicated to this mission since joining UBC as a PhD student in 2020.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
It has been my dream to study at UBC since at least 2017. I remember discussing UBC with my MSc advisor at the time, and a few years later, this dream came true. The primary reason I wanted to study at UBC was to work with my now-graduate advisor, Dr. Sean Michaletz, a world-renowned plant ecophysiologist who shares many of my research interests. After visiting UBC in February 2020, I knew instantly that I wanted to work with him. Additionally, I was drawn to the Biodiversity Research Centre (BRC), which is brimming with talent and resources. The BRC has since become a second home for me – a place where I always feel welcome. Lastly, I absolutely love the location. Vancouver is a spectacular city that I’ve grown to love and cherish. When I visited UBC, I had a chance to explore Vancouver a bit and was mesmerized by the harmony of having such a beautiful city embedded in some of the most stunning natural scenery found anywhere on the planet.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
The graduate program in Botany offers many attractive features. As an international student, the opportunities for internal funding, such as the Four Year Doctoral Fellowship and the Wall Award, were highly appealing. Additionally, the department covers the cost of attending conferences, which I have taken advantage of. Lastly, the department hosts numerous seminars that attract distinguished scientists from around the world, providing a platform for them to share their research.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
There are too many to count, to be entirely honest. The biggest surprise about life in Vancouver is the sheer diversity of great food available in the city. Given how ethnically diverse Vancouver is, it’s not entirely unexpected, but it’s always a treat to discover a new place with amazing food.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
The community built around the Biodiversity Research Centre and the Michaletz lab.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
Completing an MSc program before starting at UBC has been the most useful aspect of my career in preparing me for the rigors of a PhD program. Additionally, leading a crew of painters at my former job as a house painter instilled in me many of the basic skills and habits needed for success, such as punctuality, productivity and accountability. Last but not least, the love and support of my fiancée Kayla has been indispensable to my success as a PhD student. I don't know how I would have gotten through some of the most difficult parts of my program without her support.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
Trail and mountain running are my favorite activities outside of scientific research. Vancouver and nearby communities, such as Squamish to the north and Chilliwack to the east, host some of the best trails and mountain routes in the world. I spend anywhere from 6 to 12 hours per week running on these trails. I feel extremely lucky to have access to such wonderful outdoor recreation opportunities.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Buy a bicycle as soon as possible, assuming you don’t move here with one. Check out Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace to find a bicycle that you like and buy it. Vancouver has some of the best bicycle infrastructure in all of North America, and you should absolutely take advantage of it. It’s a great way to commute to UBC and get your exercise in at the same time. Plus, you can use it to explore the city and the many networks of trails in and outside the city.
