Jackson Moore
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
During my undergraduate degree in UBC Microbiology and Immunology, I was frankly overwhelmed with what direction to pursue after graduation. It wasn’t until my final years in my program that graduate school really stood out as the right option for me. I had taken a couple of courses on microbial ecology and genetics and became truly fascinated with microbial research here at UBC. It was also in my final year when I became exposed to bioinformatics and knew that this was a field I wanted to explore further. Ultimately I knew that graduate school would provide me with the resources and opportunities to pursue my passion for microbiology and advance my skills in the field.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
UBC is a world-class university and a leader in genomics research. Having done my undergraduate here as well, I developed a love for the city and the lifestyle it offers.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
I was attracted to GSAT largely for its interdisciplinary nature. A lot of the students come from different research backgrounds and study a wide range of topics related to genomics. Every year GSAT also holds a joint conference with two other programs, Bioinformatics and Interdisciplinary Oncology, and it’s great to be exposed to so many different topics in the genomics world. GSAT also provides the opportunity to build skills related to both “wet lab” and “dry lab”, and to use new and emerging genomic technologies, which were of interest to me.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
How large the campus is! I’ve been on the UBC campus for almost ten years now and I’m still finding new, cool things to explore. Have lunch at Nitobe Garden, take a run through the Pacific Spirit forest, check out the Museum of Anthropology and Beaty Biodiversity Museum, enjoy some fresh veggies at the UBC Farmer’s Market… the list is endless.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
One of the best academic decisions I made during my undergraduate degree was to apply to the UBC Science Co-op program. I did two Co-ops in two different research laboratories and the experiences allowed me to develop a really strong foundation for research-related skills. Having this foundation made the transition to graduate school much easier and prepared me very well for working in the laboratory.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I love being outdoors! Lots of amazing places for cycling, running, climbing, and hiking in and around Vancouver. There’s also a fun music scene here in Vancouver. I play keys in a yeast-inspired band called SUGARFUNGUS (in case you couldn’t tell I like microbiology).
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Think early on about what you want and need from a research supervisor. While it’s important to find a research project that you’re passionate about, it’s arguably just as important to find a supervisor that meets your learning style and will help you succeed on your path. I’ll also add that balance is really important. When you’re working on a project, put your focus on that project. When you’re on vacation, put your focus on that vacation.
