Samuel Brown
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I decided to pursue a graduate degree because it offers a unique opportunity to explore questions no one has answered before and contribute to the advancement of knowledge.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
My path to graduate studies at UBC began during my undergraduate years. I initially chose UBC due to its reputation as a leading institution and the opportunities it offered for a rewarding and balanced student life. During an undergraduate co-op placement with my current lab, I discovered both a passion for my research topic and a supportive research environment. These factors convinced me that UBC was the ideal place to pursue graduate studies.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
What drew me to this program was the opportunity to continue working on a research topic I’m passionate about, within a lab I already knew to be supportive and collaborative. Our group also has access to advanced imaging tools that allow us to study material behaviour in ways that wouldn’t otherwise be possible. The combination of research focus, people and infrastructure made the program a great fit.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
Though I grew up in Vancouver, I never spent much time at UBC before starting university. Despite my familiarity with the area’s natural beauty, I was still pleasantly surprised by the thoughtful design of the UBC campus, which combines modern facilities with green spaces, walking paths and great views.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
I really enjoy attending conferences. The networking and travel are fun, but it is especially rewarding to present my work to an interested audience. I also often receive valuable feedback and new ideas that help me improve my research.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
Undergraduate research experience was immensely helpful. Co-op placements across different labs provided insight into what research looks like on a day-to-day basis, helped shape my interests and developed skills like research planning and communication.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
Outside of research, I enjoy playing bass guitar, going to the gym and skiing.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
It’s important to maintain a sense of curiosity; it’s the driving force that keeps research exciting and prevents it from feeling like a chore.
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Learn more about Samuel's research
My research explores how everyday materials like wood and paper deform and interact with liquids. While these materials are familiar, some of their microscopic behaviours aren’t fully understood. With recent advances in imaging technology, we can now study these processes in greater detail. I use 3D imaging to investigate how wood deforms under compression, how liquids are absorbed into fibrous materials like paper and how water is removed from pulp during industrial processing.