Taylor Swift-LaPointe
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
After my bachelor’s degree in physics, I wanted to explore how I could apply my physics background to climate science and climate change research. A graduate degree enabled me to learn more about this area and pursue research with a group studying climate dynamics.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I worked with my supervisor during my MSc degree in Atmospheric Science at UBC. I really admired her supervision style and infectious enthusiasm for her research. A good working relationship with your supervisor is key for making your journey to your degree successful and enjoyable, and I knew that I wanted to continue to work with her as I pursued my PhD.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
The Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences department at UBC is large and multi-disciplinary. I have met many students from all over the world who are pursuing degrees in different areas. Every conversation I have about research broadens my ideas of the Earth and our relationship to it.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
I grew up in the Vancouver area and knew I wanted to stay on the west coast for my degree. UBC's campus is huge and has many different areas, including many green spaces. Every time I need to clear my head or de-stress during a busy day, I can go for a walk on campus and see something new. I love walking to the Rose Garden and looking out at the view over the ocean or down Main Mall under the tree canopy.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
During my BSc and MSc degrees, I learned to be organized in both my studies and research. A graduate degree requires initiative and self-motivation; it is up to you to determine the path you want your studies to take. Developing good study habits early is key.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Get involved in your department — attend social events to meet other graduate students outside of your lab. Your experience in grad school can be greatly enriched by having other students to talk to who are on a similar journey to yourself. Also, make a preliminary plan and outline some goals in the first few months of your degree. It’s amazing how quickly time can fly by! Research never ends — there are always a million side topics you could spend the rest of your life working on! A plan — no matter how vague — can help you stay on track to make sure you achieve your goals during your degree.
Learn more about Taylor's research
Extreme heat is a major threat to human society and health, with widespread effects across many sectors, in addition to the threats to ecosystems and biodiversity. My research focuses on heatwaves, particularly those that occur in spring or early summer, which are especially dangerous as the unexpected nature of the extreme heat out of season can have repercussions that last throughout the year. For example, a heatwave in May 2023 in the Pacific Northwest region of western Canada and the US led to the worst wildfire season up until then because that early season heatwave accelerated snowmelt and dried out soils in lightning-prone areas earlier than usual. I am especially interested in the prediction of heatwaves ahead of time, as this greatly benefits preparedness and lessens the overall impact of extreme heat. It is possible that atmospheric circulation patterns and soil moisture levels during spring heatwaves may enable us to predict the timing and intensity of heatwaves later in the summer season. Globally, heatwave frequency and intensity are increasing, and this has been attributed to human-induced climate change. I am interested in how spring heatwaves will respond to climate change, particularly their timing, intensity and duration. My research will enhance our understanding of early season heatwaves, which will provide valuable information to decision makers who can address the needs of the public in preparing for extreme heat.