Rajat Jain
Rajat Jain participated in the 2018 Three Minute Thesis competition, with his presentation, "Providing high quality potable water to Indigenous communities in Canada."
Development of passive membrane filtration systems for drinking water treatment
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I was never quite considering graduate studies. The plan was to finish my undergraduate program and take up a job in India. Then, during the pre-final year of my undergraduate studies, I got selected for the Mitacs Globalink research internship program. Mitacs provided me with funding to undertake a 3-month research internship in Canada. That single internship changed the course of my life. I realized how amazing real research is. That’s when I decided I wanted to pursue graduate studies.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
Having decided I wanted to pursue graduate studies, I started seeking advice from my colleagues and seniors about school selection. I was advised by most to only consider graduate studies in North America as that’s where the best opportunities exist. I listened to them, and decided to only consider North America for graduate studies. I was initially considering applying to both Canadian and American universities. Then, I realized how expensive it was to go to graduate school. I knew that in Canada, I would have Mitacs Globalink Graduate Fellowship to partially offset the costs of graduate studies. Also, I knew that in Canada, research supervisors usually pay their students a decent stipend from the beginning of the program. None of these funding sources would be available in the US, definitely not from the beginning of the program. I had realized that to go to US, I would have to take a huge bank loan. Besides, it would be very difficult to settle in the US in long term due to their immigration policies (and this was pre-Trump era). Canada topped on both the parameters - better funding and ease of immigration. Accordingly, I only applied to three Canadian universities, namely UBC, UoT, and McGill. I got offers, the best of which was from UBC. So, I came here and have been so happy ever since.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
I was amazed, astonished, astounded - just plain, simple awed - when I first landed in Vancouver - a city with the best of both the worlds - mountains as well as the ocean. Vancouver's and UBC's other-worldly beauty was definitely the best and the biggest surprise. The sights here still amaze me to this day. I don't think I want to ever leave this city.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
I love the fact that I get to conduct research in the field, and that I am not just stuck in a lab. Even more important is the fact that my work will make a real impact on the lives of indigenous peoples in Canada, and that it is not just a data-crunching, paper-publishing endeavor.
Mitacs provided me with funding to undertake a 3-month research internship in Canada. That single internship changed the course of my life. I realized how amazing real research is.
How do you feel your program is preparing you for those challenges?
I definitely see a career for myself in Canada, and my program is definitely providing me with all the skills I will need to kick-start and excel at that career option. My dream job is to work for Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, and help provide high quality potable water to remote and small communities, many of which have had boil water advisories for decades.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
In Vancouver, I have found my one true love in hiking, and I plan to complete 100 odd hikes before graduating next year.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Just believe in UBC and come. You won't ever regret your decision. Period.
