Blair Gage
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
As an undergraduate I had the good fortune to do an 8-month co-op work term in Dr. Kieffer's lab where we investigated an adult stem cell population and its ability to form beta-cells. During this time I began to use a number of new and exciting technologies which got me quite hooked on stem cell science. I decided to pursue my graduate degree to continue the work I started as well as build my knowledge of new technologies.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I graduated from UBC/BCIT with my BSc in Biotechnology from the department of Microbiology and Immunology in 2008. During this time I realized that UBC is one of those rare universities which satisfies the old adage of "Location, Location, Location". Since I like to ski, fish for salmon, and enjoy the urban life, UBC and surrounding Vancouver’s mountains, oceans, and numerous venues make for a great University location.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
The best surprise of graduate life is that the science, while a 10 hour per day job, often leaves perfect time slots to go outside and sip a coffee on the grass. By doing this routinely with fellow graduate students I have enjoyed making a number of cherished friendships with people from around the world, or around the corner, while discussing the merits of a "Double-Double" from Tim Horton's or the classic Starbucks "Pikes-Place".
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
I think that the time commitment for graduate studies is often overlooked; specifically, the effect this has on your friends (significant or otherwise) and family. While it is not always possible, try to prepare these people as well as yourself for some time apart so you can better cherish the time together.
Learn more about Blair's research
Human Embryonic Stem Cells (hESCs) are by definition pluripotent and as such are capable of forming all tissues of the body. Recently, a series of landmark studies by the NovoCell research group revealed the potential of this cell population to be differentiated in a step-wise manner into pancreatic cells types. Despite these studies, a notable gap in our understanding exists regarding the basic cell biology which controls hESC development from pluripotent cells to become mature endocrine cells. My research in this field focuses on the how cellular proteins known as transcription factors control the developmental fate of hESCs. By adding or taking away various factors and signals we believe that we can control hESC growth to efficiently produce large quantities of human beta cells in the laboratory.