Thomas Harrison
Spontaneous reorganization of neural circuitry after stroke
Dr. Tim Murphy
Victoria
Canada
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I was exposed to research during my undergraduate degree, and instantly knew that I wanted to continue on to graduate studies. I love the variety, challenge, and intellectual freedom of research, as well as the camaraderie of working in a lab.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
UBC has arguably the strongest neuroscience faculty in Canada, and my supervisor is a leader in his field. The Brain Research Centre regularly hosts lectures by prominent neuroscientists from around the world, and I am surrounded by interesting people and ideas.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
With focus and organization, it's possible to make progress in graduate school without having to give up the important things in life.
What do you hope to accomplish with your research?
I want to advance our understanding of the mechanisms by which the nervous system produces voluntary movements, and of how these movements are represented in the brain. Ultimately, research in this area will lead to improved treatments for patients suffering from stroke, movement disorders, and paralysis.
What has winning a major award meant to you?
The availability of scholarships has given me confidence about the funding situation in Canada, and is an encouraging sign for my future prospects in research.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Make sure to get out the lab and take advantage of what Vancouver has to offer. Where else in the world can you go skiing and sailing on the same day?