Harjeev Sudan
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I had the opportunity to explore diverse research settings, from infant language development and pediatric inflammatory illnesses to translational neuropharmacology and mental health, during my undergraduate studies. My pursuit of graduate studies was, and is, rooted in my curiosity and appreciation for scientific inquiry honed through these experiences.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I grew up in British Columbia, and staying close to home and family was a priority. This, coupled with the fact that UBC is one of Canada’s top academic institutions, made it the perfect fit for my undergraduate and now graduate studies.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
With an undergraduate degree in behavioural neuroscience and an innate interest in the human experience and its neurological underpinnings, Neuroscience always felt like the right program for me. But the work I wanted to do was also strongly motivated by my interests in healthcare and equity, and the way the Graduate Program in Neuroscience embraced my interdisciplinary research focus was what sealed the deal for me.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
The diversity — in culture, food, thought, research, environment and beyond — is stunning. This diversity really fosters endless possibilities for experience, collaboration and community.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
I love learning about research that is completely different from my own! My program offers opportunities such as a weekly Neuroscience Research Colloquium, where scientists from other academic institutions showcase their research, and weekly trainee lunches where graduate students from different labs in the program present their ongoing work. These are fun ways to engage with the other work being done within my disciplines of interest on a regular basis.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
Taking courses outside of my core undergraduate behavioural neuroscience degree, like those in sociology and population and public health, allowed me to develop an interdisciplinary background that is foundational to my doctoral work. During my undergraduate degree, I was also fortunate to participate in experiential learning opportunities such as UBC’s WorkLearn, co-op and directed studies programs, where I explored diverse research and found my academic interest at the intersection of neuroscience, healthcare and equity.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I’m not the most outdoorsy person (especially by BC standards), but I love to catch a pretty sunset at the beach or on a hike. I also love cooking fusion foods and trying seasonal ice cream flavours around the city. My guilty pleasures include watching reality TV and the NFL (go Ravens!).
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Talk to people! Building relationships of mutual trust, empathy and support with those around you can make graduate school feel far less overwhelming and isolating. Find mentors and don’t be afraid to seek support. Be a mentor when the opportunity arises.
Learn more about Harjeev's research
My doctoral research will examine clinical care and ethics in neuroprognostication for patients with post-cardiac arrest brain injury secondary to opioid toxicity.