Patrick Waeber
Sustainable forest management
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
After my M.Sc. in Zoology at the University of Zurich where I studied the social behavior of wild living Gentle lemurs (in Madagascar) I wanted to broaden my horizons and learn to think beyond the species level. That's why I chose to pursue a Ph.D. in Resource Management, specifically forests, which are a globally emerging natural resource.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
Because there are immense forests around Vancouver.
What do you hope to accomplish with your research?
I hope that my research will enhance the understanding of the interplay between climate change, natural disturbances (e.g. fire) and anthropogenic disturbances (e.g. harvesting), and forest succession. I also hope that this understanding together with the IDFM can help forest managers and planners to address complex challenges for our future forests.
What are your future career goals?
Working at the interface research/academia and applied conservation/sustainable development.
What has been your most memorable Vancouver experience so far?
One evening I was having dinner in my West End (downtown) apartment on the second floor. It was already dark outside, but still nicely warm. That' s why I kept the window open. And then, suddenly a raccoon popped up in my window frame. Wow! This would have never been possible in Switzerland...
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Bring your skis, hiking boots and an umbrella. Otherwise enjoy the great outdoors in B.C. which are huge compared to Switzerland... Also appreciate the friendly people and the multicultural flair!
Personal Interests / Hobbies
Conservation, Madagascar, Africa, nature, forests, mountains, skiing, hiking