Glenn, Kyle
Research
Functional morphology of kelps
Though somewhat 'young' compared to many other seaweed groups, the kelps are extradorinarily diverse and ecologically important macroalgae. Kelp species are known to be highly morphologically plastic (meaning they can change their shape and growth patterns in different environments) often to the point where it is difficult to tell two species apart. My research is to investigate the evolutionary significance of such plasticity and also of morphological characters that are always the same across many species.
I hope that my research will provide novel clues about the evolutionary advantage of an organism being able to change certain characteristics about itself in response to environmental conditions, as opposed to relying solely on one genetically programmed feature.
Although undergraduate research opportunities are becoming increasingly prevalent at most universities, most undergraduate students don't get the rewarding experience of designing and developing a research project from scratch. The research process (developing an idea, learning how to ask a question, conducting an experiment, and making a contribution to an academic field) can be a very satisfying and mind-expanding experience. I decided to pursue a graduate degree for those very reasons.
UBC has one of the top Botany departments in the world with a highly diverse faculty studying everything about plants from the smallest cellular level to the largest ecosystem level at short to evolutionary significant time scales. Such a broad diversity of faculty offers a great opportunity for young researchers to learn about techniques and recent advances in many field of botanical studies as well as collaborate with researchers with many specialties. Additionally, Vancouver is the best place I can imagine spending this exciting time in my life.
If you're having any hesitations about coming to UBC for Grad School (i.e. maybe you're considering another school as well), make sure to come and visit UBC and Vancouver first and I guarantee your indecision will clear right up.
My most memorable experience of Vancouver is also my first. Last fall, when I came to Vancouver for a doctoral application interview, I became enamored with the Vancouver environment (both political and climatic). I was immediately surrounded by trees of many vibrant colors, within the reach of the ocean, and with a back drop of gorgeous mountains. I've only been in Vancouver for a couple weeks now, but have still not lost the "awe" of the landscape and am looking forward to many new adventures.
SCUBA diving, reading graphic novels, video games
Research has been my passion for many years. However, I am becoming exceedingly interested in higher level education. I have helped teach both seaweed biology and scientific research on SCUBA diving courses and have found both experiences to be extremely rewarding. While I think research is of the utmost importance, it is also important to educate and inspire future generations of scientists along with researchers in other fields.
