Ricardo Rivera
Studies into the mechanistic basis of local anesthetic action on the transient receptor potential vanilloid subtype 1 channels in vitro
Dr. Stephan Schwarz and Dr. Christopher Ahern
Mayaguez
Puerto Rico
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
The short answer is I liked science, but wasn't sure in what direction to take it. I researched the work performed by different departments from around the world and discovered that UBC had an excellent pharmacology program with equally exceptional faculty. I visited Vancouver just to be sure and after getting acquainted with the city knew this was where I wanted to stay.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
Beautiful scenery everywhere you go.
What do you hope to accomplish with your research?
It would great if my research aroused interest towards the potentially novel uses of local anaesthetic compounds at lower concentrations than those associated with Na+ channel block. The ultimate goal of this research is to provide a basis for the design of safe, effective, and pain-selective anaesthesia.
What are your future career goals?
Finishing my PhD and applying to medical school.
What has been your most memorable Vancouver experience so far?
Too many to count (and some I can't remember).
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Yeah, don't wait. Vancouver is not a place many people from Puerto Rico know about. In fact, I wasn't even sure if I wanted to come. There were many unknown questions about BC, such as the weather, culture, and language. But in the end, once you arrive it's truly a wonderful place.
Personal Interests / Hobbies
Outdoor activities, kite-boarding, cycling, running.
