Convocation November 2015

Doctor of Education (Educational Leadership and Policy)

• Dr. Amea Margaret Wilbur: "Dr. Wilbur explored the understandings that teachers of English as an Additional Language bring to teaching students whom they believe have experienced trauma. Her project described the ways instructors create inclusive classrooms. She concluded that for programs to be responsive to the whole student there needs to be a shift in policy and practice."

Doctor of Philosophy (Art History)

• Dr. Mique'l Dangeli: "Dr. Dangeli studied the work of First Nations composers and choreographers on the Northwest Coast of British Columbia. Her research demonstrates that Indigenous protocol is integral to their process of creation and performance. The newly created songs, dances and collaborations are vital to the assertion of Aboriginal sovereignty and land rights."
• Dr. Menno Jacobus Stuart Hubregtse: "Dr. Hubregtse examined the architecture and artworks in international airports. His concept "aero-kinaesthetics" considers the air terminal's aesthetics in terms of its capacity to order and affect passenger movement. His research offers a new understanding of how air terminal design contributes to the operation of international airports."
• Dr. Adrienne Judith Fast: "Dr. Fast completed her doctoral studies in Art History and Theory. She focussed on art and artists in India during the late colonial period, from the 1920s to the 1940s. Her research showed how professional artists used print and printmaking media, to carve out new spaces of economic and social opportunity for themselves during this period."
• Dr. Maja Dujakovic: "Dr. Dujakovic studied the development of the printing industry in France in the late 15th and early 16th century. Focusing on a specific series of illustrated books, she examined the complex transition from scribal to printing culture. Her research highlights the importance of the illustrated book in the artistic practices of the period."

Doctor of Philosophy (Asian Studies)

• Dr. Otilia Clara Milutin: "Dr. Milutin studied Japanese court tales written between the 9th and 13th centuries. She examined the representations of sexual violence in those tales and the cohesive patterns used by women to write about rape. Her research revealed that due to its fictional nature the tale genre provided the necessary safe space for addressing sexual violence."

Doctor of Philosophy (Astronomy)

• Dr. Tessa Sylvia Vernstrom: "Dr. Vernstrom completed her research in the field of Astronomy. She investigated the characteristics of galaxies with the use of radio telescopes. She studied the details of some of the faintest radio galaxies ever observed. This information can be used to learn how galaxies have evolved over time."
• Dr. Sarah Janine Greenstreet: "Using computer models to study how asteroids orbit the Sun, Dr. Greenstreet discovered they can sometimes orbit the Sun backwards. She also determined how often comets strike Pluto and its five moons, which can be used along with data from NASA's historic New Horizons mission to understand characteristics of the surfaces of Pluto and its moons."
• Dr. Viktoria Asboth: "Dr. Asboth studied distant dust-obscured, star-forming galaxies. She analyzed large area sky surveys, observed at far-infrared wavelengths. Her results suggest that dusty galaxies played a more significant role in the stellar mass buildup in the early Universe than current galaxy evolution models predict."
• Dr. Mike Alexandersen: "Dr. Alexandersen used the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope to discover and track outer Solar System asteroids. Through a careful observing strategy and detailed understanding of observational biases, he studied the size and number distributions of the various underlying sub-populations, properties that carry evidence of how the Solar System formed."

Doctor of Philosophy (Biochemistry and Molecular Biology)

• Dr. Brianne Janelle Burkinshaw: "Dr. Burkinshaw completed her doctoral studies in the field of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology."
• Dr. Anthony Khong: "Dr. Khong characterized a family of agriculturally important viruses called dicistroviruses. Notable members of this family infect shrimps, aphids, and honey bees. Dr. Khong's work sheds light on how these understudied viruses replicate and usurp the host, and evade antiviral defenses. These strategies are conserved across other viral families."
• Dr. Matthew Solomonson: "Dr. Solomonson studied how bacteria cause the disease tuberculosis, or TB, which is still a major world-wide problem. He provided a glimpse of the tiny molecular machines used by the bacteria to manipulate human cells during an infection. The findings will hopefully contribute to the development of better drugs and vaccines to prevent and treat TB."
• Dr. Bjorn David Mannerstrom Bean: "Dr. Bean studied the factors that move proteins to the correct places in yeast cells. He discovered a new transport protein and suggested a process by which other proteins are brought to their functional location in our cells. The findings from these studies may improve our understanding of hemophilia, Parkinson disease and Alzheimer disease."

Doctor of Philosophy (Bioinformatics)

• Dr. Huifang Li: "Dr. Li used computer-aided design methods to develop small, novel drug molecules for the treatment of prostate cancer. The new strategy used in this work found molecules that might be able to treat advanced prostate cancer. It is hoped that these molecules will help overcome drug resistance and prevent the disease from progressing."
• Dr. Katayoon Kasaian: "Dr. Kasaian studied the molecular cause of several head and neck endocrine malignancies. While the commonly diagnosed papillary thyroid carcinomas harbored very few mutations, the rare but deadly anaplastic thyroid cancers were found to have accrued numerous genomic alterations. Molecular analysis hinted to potential drug targets in some patients."

Doctor of Philosophy (Biomedical Engineering)

• Dr. Eric Ouellet: "Dr. Ouellet developed a powerful technology that allows scientists to rapidly discover new drugs called aptamers, which are made from short sequences of genetic material. He found that, by applying this technology, new treatments for macular degeneration could be identified. This is now being studied by researchers at UBC's Centre for Blood Research."

Doctor of Philosophy (Botany)

• Dr. Yuan Ruan: "Dr. Ruan completed doctoral studies in the field of Botany. She explored the function of microtubules in root development in plants, and investigated how microtubules and hormones coordinate, to control root growth. Her findings contribute to a better understanding the evolution of land plants, and can be applied to important agricultural questions."
• Dr. Ting Wei: "Dr. Wei studied how viruses multiply in their plant host. Using tomato ringspot virus as a model, She found that host proteases and degradation pathways regulate the accumulation of virus replication proteins and likely control the rate of virus multiplication. Her research advances our understanding of the co-evolution between viruses and their hosts."
• Dr. Christopher Lee: "Why are particular plant species found only in particular places? To answer this question, Dr. Lee roamed the Rocky Mountains of North America in search of Townsend's Easter Daisies. Using genetic and climate modelling techniques, he improved our understanding of plant speciation and how climate and asexual reproduction affect plant distributions."
• Dr. Gregory Joseph Baute: "Dr. Baute used genomic tools to explore the genetic history of the sunflower, a globally important oil seed. These analyses revealed a long history of the use of wild relatives in sunflower improvement. By introducing new wild diversity into the cultivated sunflower he found promising material for drought tolerance and disease resistance."
• Dr. Kathryn Grace Turner: "Over the last 200 years, diffuse knapweed has become one of the most invasive plants in North America. Dr. Turner has demonstrated that this species has evolved larger sized plants, delayed maturity, altered gene expression patterns, and increased environmental tolerances. This work contributes to our ability to prevent future invasions."
• Dr. Alex Mauricio Ardila Garcia: "Dr. Ardila Garcia examined the diversity of fungal parasites, or Microsporidia, in the Northwest Pacific ocean. He discovered and characterized the first case of a microsporidian infection in a marine roundworm. This discovery led to novel insights into the co-evolution of host-parasite interactions between microsporidian parasites and roundworms."

Doctor of Philosophy (Cell and Developmental Biology)

• Dr. Perveen Kaur Biln: "Dr. Biln studied how molecular barriers between cells are assembled and maintained. These barriers are essential to organism development. She identified novel roles for a critical protein in barrier organization and epithelial cell survival. This advances our knowledge of how cellular barriers are developed and provides insight into therapeutic targets."
• Dr. Anthony Berndt: "Dr. Berndt showed how the specialized functions of brain neurons are controlled by signals from targets that the neurons contact. He defined how these signals are interpreted at regulatory regions of DNA. His work contributes to our understanding of brain development, and describes processes that are disrupted in degenerative neurological diseases."

Doctor of Philosophy (Chemical and Biological Engineering)

• Dr. Rahman Gholami Shahrestani: "Methane emissions from natural gas vehicle exhausts are a major environmental challenge due to the global warming potential of methane. Dr. Gholami Shahrestani studied catalytic methane combustion to remove methane from natural gas vehicle exhausts. His contributions improve the design and lifetime of catalysts used in natural gas vehicle converters."
• Dr. Maryam Rezadehbashi: "Dr. Rezadehbashi has spent the past five years studying sustainable methods for the treatment of wastewater. She investigated micro-organisms and mechanisms involved in the removal of contaminants. As an environmental engineer, she has contributed to the design, modeling and optimization of biological systems that degrade contaminants."
• Dr. Tenghu Wu: "Dr. Wu developed mathematical models to investigate cell responses to external forces. He applied mathematical principles to govern biophysical dynamics and chemical kinetics of the cells. His models help to reveal the mechanisms by which the cells can adapt to complicated environments, as well as protect themselves from external perturbations."

Doctor of Philosophy (Chemistry)

• Dr. Jie Cui: "Dr. Cui studied the collision dynamics of complex molecules in magnetic fields. She combined statistics and scattering calculations for improved predictions of collision outcomes. Her work provides insight into the feasibility of ultracold molecule experiments, the controllability of which is useful for precision measurements."
• Dr. Qi Qian: "Dr. Qian investigated the mechanisms of enzymes involved in the synthesis of important natural products called ergot alkaloids, including the anti-migraine drug ergotamine. His novel work showed how these enzymes synthesize precursors from an amino acid. This research triggered the discovery of innovative approaches to synthesizing similar compounds."
• Dr. Erkai Liu: "Dr. Liu completed his studies in Chemistry. He conducted research on DNAzymes using modified deoxyribonucleotide. He selected DNAzymes that have high activities and can be potentially used in cancer or antiviral treatment. This research improved the functionality of DNAzymes and provided potential candidates for cancer or antiviral treatment."
• Dr. Katja Dralle Mjos: "Dr. Mjos conducted her research in the field of chemistry, and she studied the chemistry of anti-microbial and anti-cancer agents. She demonstrated the beneficial and detrimental interactions of metal ions with such drug molecules. Working with industry, she was able to shed light on the potential, unwanted side-effects of a new cancer drug."
• Dr. Takahito Kasahara: "Dr. Kasahara completed his doctoral studies in the field of Chemistry. He developed a synthetic route towards an intermediate for a complex natural product."
• Dr. Hui Yang: "For five years, Dr. Yang studied several synthetic proteins in UBC's Chemistry Department. His unprecedented research demonstrated that these jellyfish-like synthetic proteins have potential in both catalytic and biological applications. This knowledge may aid in the design of an artificial enzyme and also contribute to the development of new drugs."
• Dr. Michael James Wheeler: "Dr. Wheeler completed his doctoral studies in the field of Chemistry. He investigated the formation conditions of ice in the atmosphere. Through controlled laboratory studies he improved the ability to predict ice formation in atmospheric models. This research will enable more accurate prediction of atmospheric processes and climate."
• Dr. Caterina Ramogida: "Dr. Ramogida developed new medical imaging agents for positron-emission tomography scans, to detect cancer and heart disease using radioactive metals. She studied methods to safely incorporate the metals into pharmaceuticals. These non-conventional metals have the potential to mitigate the global shortage of the metal used in current imaging agents."
• Dr. Yanjie Liu: "Dr. Liu completed his doctoral studies in the field of Chemistry and he focussed on the mechanisms of gastritis and peptic ulcer. He discovered the structure of a new protein important for the survival of the bacteria, Helicobacter pylori, which trigger ulcers. His findings identified a new target for gastrointestinal drugs development."
• Dr. Wei Xue: "Dr. Xue studied the mechanism used to insert micronized copper into wood treated with anti-fungal preservatives. She showed that the formation of Cu-wood complexes is controlled by the available acidic protons in wood. The findings will be used to evaluate the treatment under the influence of environmental factors such as soil contact and fungal attack."

Doctor of Philosophy (Civil Engineering)

• Dr. Mohammad Sajjad Fayyazi: "Dr. Fayyazi studied the way in which structures that have deep foundations, such as bridges and high-rise buildings, push against the soil when horizontal pressure from earthquakes or other forces exist. His research covered a wide range of foundations for which limited data exist. His findings contribute to safer and more reliable foundation designs."
• Dr. Paul Slangen: "Dr. Slangen developed a new apparatus to investigate the soil erosion that is caused by water flowing in and around dams made of earth in British Columbia. The experimental findings yielded two distinct erosion phenomena that may occur within a dam and/or its foundation. Engineers need to consider both phenomena when assessing the safety of dams."

Doctor of Philosophy (Classics)

• Dr. Jayne Elizabeth Knight: "Dr. Knight studied the pragmatics of anger in Roman society during the late Republic and early Empire. She illustrated the complex relationship between anger and Roman politics. By focusing on how anger was employed in the professional contexts of the orator and emperor, she enhanced our understanding of the role of emotions in Roman public life."
• Dr. Andrew Michael McClellan: "Dr. McClellan's thesis examined the treatment of corpses in Latin epic poetry. He focused specifically on the motif of abuse in the post-Augustan epic. He shows that, encapsulated in the corpses and their treatment, the poems reveal an obsession with violence, horror and death that reflect the larger disturbed functioning of each poet's epic universe."

Doctor of Philosophy (Computer Science)

• Dr. Javad Safaei Mehranpour: "Dr. Mehranpour created a model to identify which proteins are better targets for drugs, and which part of each protein interacts with drugs and enzymes. This model can be used by biochemists and biologists to probe the behaviour of proteins in different diseases, with the goal of controlling the progress of diseases such as Cancer and Alzheimer's."
• Dr. Dutch Thomassen Meyer: "Dr. Meyer performed a detailed analysis of the behavior of two large computer storage systems. He found that in many cases simple opportunities to increase performance and compress data have been passed over in favor of more complex and costly alternatives. The data in this work stands as the largest file system metadata study performed to date."
• Dr. Mahdi Tayarani Najaran: "Dr. Tayarani completed his doctoral studies in the field of Computer Science. His research focused on design principles for building large-scale software systems. He worked on simplifying applications which operate using numerous computers, and he built a framework which helps developers to deal with distributed system artifacts."
• Dr. James Peter Gregson: "Fluid motion is incredibly complex and detailed, making it difficult to analyze and simulate. Dr. Gregson developed methods to capture and reconstruct fluids and fluid motion from videos obtained with conventional video cameras. The methods can be applied to graphics, simulation and the sciences to better understand fluids and their motions."
• Dr. Syavash Nobarany: "Dr. Nobarany investigated the scholarly peer-review process used to select papers for journals and conferences. Specifically, he examined fairness, anonymity, motivations for reviewing, politeness of reviewers, and opinion measurement mechanisms. Based on the findings, he devised and proposed solutions for improving computer-support for peer review."
• Dr. Kan Cai: "Dr. Cai studied the 802.11 interference problem in WiFi networks, and showed a direct correlation between network congestion and wireless interference. He argued for trading some bandwidth for less interference and better fairness in 802.11 networks. He proposed a system to identify interference by correlating throughput changes of wireless devices."

Doctor of Philosophy (Counselling Psychology)

• Dr. Stuart Michael Hoover: "Psychotherapists in training often find it challenging to facilitate group sessions. Dr. Hoover created and evaluated an innovative program to increase confidence and competence when leading difficult or complex groups. This program, which promotes experiential learning, has proved to be an effective method for training psychotherapy group leaders."
• Dr. Krista Socholotiuk: "Dr. Socholotiuk examined how parents of adolescents with anorexia worked together in family-based treatments. She found that the process was influenced by the parents' sense of identity, their beliefs about anorexia and family relationships. This research also showed how social and structural resources could facilitate the joint actions of parents."
• Dr. Stephanie Marie Conn: "Dr. Conn studied the factors that helped or hindered police officers as they tried to maintain life roles outside of policing. Personal standards were the strongest helping factor and work hours were the strongest hindering factor as they sought to achieve balance. This research helps us understand the work-life balance practices of police officers."

Doctor of Philosophy (Curriculum Studies)

• Dr. Elizabeth Namazzi: "Dr. Namazzi studied how formal education might engage the prior knowledge of individuals and groups, to curb the spread of HIV/AIDS. She showed a complex interplay between cultural practices, formal instruction and youth commitment to conceptual and behavioural change. This provides insights into ways educators can effectively teach moral education."
• Dr. Julia Kathleen Ostertag: "Since school gardens are once again growing in school grounds across North America, Dr. Ostertag decided to grow a garden here at UBC as an arts-based research project to understand what it means to teach with a garden. In the company of plants and people, she engaged with the difficult history of school gardens and their pedagogical possibilities."
• Dr. Christopher David Campbell: "Dr. Campbell studied change in the culturally diverse students in engineering design teams. Buying into teamwork, claiming viable roles and navigating team perspectives were found critical to early professional development. This suggests a need for an explicit curricular focus on teamwork, intercultural and communicative skills, and formative assessment."
• Dr. Jiao Ji: "Dr. Ji investigated the ways in which museum educators in Chinese science museums perceive themselves as education professionals. She found museum educators desired a professional community where they can seek support from their peers. Her study provided insight into the professionalization of the role of museum education in China."
• Dr. Adrienne Rae Boulton-Funke: "Dr. Boulton-Funke completed her doctoral research in the field of Curriculum Studies. Focussing on teacher education, she explored the practices of teachers of visual arts. Her findings will help us understand how creative thought, intuition and memory can influence the approaches used in the practice of visual arts teachers."

Doctor of Philosophy (Economics)

• Dr. Zhengfei Yu: "Dr. Yu studied econometric models that may have multiple equilibria. He developed an approach to detect multiplicity of equilibria directly from observed variables. His study advanced our understanding of the relationship between the equilibrium behaviour and distribution patterns of data."
• Dr. Maria Domenica Tito: "Dr. Tito examined the impact of international trade on the way in which firms select their workforce. She documented that exporting firms tend to select workers who are better qualified for the job, compared to similar non-exporting companies. This suggests that opening up to trade reduces the revenue losses due to mismatches between workers and firms."
• Dr. Dana Galizia: "Dr. Galizia investigated the role of the liquidation and accumulation of capital in the business cycle, both as a cause of and as an amplifier of booms and busts. This issue has important implications for the appropriate design of government policies aimed at mitigating and preventing recessions."
• Dr. Zhe Chen: "Dr. Chen studied the performance of Chinese firms in the international market. He found that the most productive firms benefit more from the tough market competition since they can afford higher marketing costs. His research helped us to better understand the negative correlation between the productivity of Chinese firms and their export intensity."
• Dr. Alix Duhaime-Ross: "Dr. Duhaime-Ross evaluated public policies related to education in Canada. She found evidence that educating immigrant children in the main language spoken in their host region had a large impact on their employment outcomes at adulthood. Her research also advanced our understanding of how parents save for their children's postsecondary education."
• Dr. Arka Roy Chaudhuri: "Dr. Roy aimed to understand the economic and political changes in India, and how they affected different marginalized groups. He looked at the effects of political quotas of Scheduled Castes and Tribes, the effect of British colonization on communal conflict in independent India, and the evolution of relative economic conditions of Muslims in India."
• Dr. Jacob Neal Cosman: "Dr. Cosman investigated how cities grow and change with economic activity. He studied the dynamics of the nightlife industry, cross-city differences in housing price growth, and new empirical methods for urban economics research. This research is useful to policymakers seeking to create vibrant cities and understand housing market cycles."

Doctor of Philosophy (Educational Studies)

• Dr. Sopheap Phan: "To help Cambodia build a higher education system that matches its social needs and context, Dr. Phan did an analysis of international policy reforms and stakeholder interviews, to serve as an informed basis for future discussions. He suggested three policies Cambodia needs to change to improve relevance, affordability, sustainability, and quality."
• Dr. James Bigari: "Drawing on philosophy and moral psychology, Dr. Bigari explored the relationship between moral development and personal autonomy. He spoke to debates over these educational aims between liberals, communitarians, and fundamentalists. Dr. Bigari hopes this work will improve educational policies and practices in pluralist societies."

Doctor of Philosophy (Electrical and Computer Engineering)

• Dr. Rukhsana Afroz Ruby: "Dr. Ruby completed her doctoral studies in the field of Electrical and Computer Engineering. She focussed on scheduling and resource allocation, which are important tasks in the radio resource management layer in wireless communication systems known as LTE. She proposed three uplink scheduling and resource allocation schemes for LTE-Advanced systems."
• Dr. Yazan Boshmaf: "Dr. Boshmaf performed a security analysis of automated fake accounts in social networks such as Facebook. His research characterized the threats posed by such deceptive accounts and provided the design of a system to efficiently and effectively defend against them. This system is currently deployed by social networks to protect millions of users."
• Dr. Mengzhe Shen: "With the help of a laser instrument, Dr. Shen studied the collagen molecule, an important type of protein in the human body. He found a close connection between the structure of collagen and some of its optic characteristics. These studies provide a better understanding of changes in collagen, which may lead to early diagnosis of cancer cells."
• Dr. Adam Josiah Gerald Noel: "Dr. Noel studied the potential for artificial devices in fluids to share information by sending molecules. He developed a theoretical model for a device to learn about its fluid environment and how it receives information from other devices. His model will aid in the design of new communication networks, and helps us understand biological communication."
• Dr. Timothy Glenn Rogers: "Have you ever tried to do so many things at once that you couldn't get anything done? Dr. Rogers' research into designing computer hardware demonstrates that computer processors suffer from a similar problem. His work on scheduling mechanisms to reuse data in computers improves the speed and energy usage of both smartphones and large scale data centres."
• Dr. Nikola Todor Zlatanov: "Dr. Zlatanov completed his studies in the field of Electrical and Computer Engineering and focussed on wireless communications. During his research, he developed novel communication protocols for wireless relay networks. These protocols may have applications in next-generation mobile phones and wireless networks."
• Dr. Milad Fekri Moghadam: "Dr. Fekri Moghadam's research focused on balancing power generation with consumption in electric power systems. He proposed the integration of advanced control and communication technologies into existing power systems, to achieve higher generation efficiency. His results provide utilities like BC Hydro with new methods to save millions of dollars."
• Dr. Siavash Khallaghi: "Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in North American men. Dr. Khallaghi developed new methods for 3D ultrasound guidance during prostate biopsies and validated his methods on patient data. His work can potentially facilitate early cancer diagnosis, thereby increasing patient survival rates and quality of life."
• Dr. Binglai Niu: "Dr. Niu's doctoral research focused on optimizing the allocation of radio resources for wireless communication systems. He designed several resource allocation mechanisms which achieved high speed wireless data services for cellphone users. His research provided insightful ideas for designing next generation wireless communication systems."
• Dr. Rubaiya Rahman: "Dr. Rahman completed doctoral studies in the field of Electrical and Computer Engineering. She developed mathematical models for nanofiber based sensors, and investigated the effect of fiber density and geometry on device sensitivity. This study is helpful in cost minimization and sensitivity optimization of devices such as bio-hazard gas sensors. ."
• Dr. Hasen Nicanfar: "Dr. Nicanfar developed novel solutions for secure communications in smart grids. His authentication, key management and key construction mechanisms improve the efficiency of secure data transfers in home and neighbourhood networks. His network privacy mechanism and privacy-preserving security solutions further protect the privacy of mobile customers."
• Dr. Omid Mohareri: "Dr. Mohareri completed his doctoral research in the field of Electrical and Computer Engineering. He developed novel systems and methods to integrate advanced imaging for prostate cancer surgical procedures. He proved clinical usefulness of the methods by performing extensive clinical studies and showing improved visualization and surgical workflow."
• Dr. Abdullah Hassan Gharaibeh: "Social networks have grown dramatically, Facebook has over a billion users and 150 billion friendship connections. It is expensive to analyze such large networks, e.g., to aid marketing by identifying influential users. Dr. Gharaibeh designed and developed low-cost, yet powerful parallel computing framework for analysing such large-scale networks."
• Dr. Miguel Angel Guillen-Torres: "Dr. Guillén Torres researched the miniaturization of optical rotation sensors using silicon, the top material in electronics. His devices outperform those created in other materials, and the test platforms he created are being used across Canada. His research shows that with proper integration, mini-optical-gyros can be used in consumer electronics."
• Dr. Javad Hajipour: "Dr. Hajipour completed his PhD in the field of wireless networks in Electrical and Computer Engineering. He proposed sophisticated and efficient algorithms for allocating system resources in mobile networks. As a result of his research, high-data-rate services can be provided in mobile networks with better quality and lower overhead and complexity."
• Dr. Mostafa Masnadi Shirazi Nejad: "Dr. Masnadi focused on developing a new type of semiconductor alloy containing the chemical element bismuth. He studied the optical and electronic transport properties of the alloy, using experimental and theoretical approaches. He showed that semiconductors containing bismuth have a wide range of applications in infrared and high frequency devices."
• Dr. Chih-Chieh Jack Shiah: "Dr. Shiah studied integrated circuit design techniques for devices within a cellphone that sense motion. He developed a detailed design flow and verified the proposed techniques by successfully testing prototype chips. His findings can be applied to improve the accuracy and performance of the sensory systems while making them more energy efficient."
• Dr. William August Hoiles: "Dr. Hoiles completed his doctoral studies in the field of Electrical and Computer Engineering. He constructed predictive models of engineered tethered bilayer lipid membranes. These models provided novel insights into biological membrane dynamics and the development of tethered membrane based bio-sensors."
• Dr. Rindranirina Ramamonjison: "Dr. Ramamonjison developed new energy-efficient resource allocation schemes for fifth-generation, or 5G cellular wireless networks. His studies highlight the value of cooperation to support the escalating growth of mobile data traffic while lowering energy costs. His findings will help network operators and vendors design sustainable 5G systems."
• Dr. Francis Therrien: "Dr. Therrien developed new models of electrical machines for the simulation of electromagnetic transients in power systems. The proposed models were shown to significantly increase simulation speed. These findings expedited the massive computer studies necessary to operate electrical power systems in a safe, secure, and optimal way."
• Dr. Amin Banitalebi Dehkordi: "Dr. Banitalebi explored the ways in which the quality of 3D video is assessed. He designed quality metrics and visual attention models for 3D video. His work can help camera and display manufactures and network providers determine 3D capturing parameters, improve 3D playback perceptual quality, and ensure Quality of Service during transmission."
• Dr. Shabnam Mirshokraie: "Dr. Mirshokraie's doctoral studies focused on automated testing of web applications. The evaluation results point to the effectiveness of the proposed techniques in terms of accuracy and error detection capability. Her automated testing methods reduce the tester's time and manual effort, while increasing the reliability of web applications"
• Dr. Mai Mohamed Hassan: "Dr. Hassan studied how to utilize the wireless spectrum of cellular networks in a more efficient way, using low-cost devices. She used spectrum-sharing techniques to accommodate more cell phone users on the same wireless channel. Her findings can be applied to combat the overloading in phone networks when there are emergencies or natural disasters."
• Dr. Arash Alimardani: "Dr. Alimardani studied electrical power systems. He developed methods for improving the accuracy and performance of a real-time applications in the control centres of utilities. The new methods have enhanced the operation of industrial power systems and made them more robust and efficient, for example at BC Hydro, where they have been implemented."
• Dr. Myeong Jin Ju: "Dr. Ju developed an advanced optical imaging system to examine the human eye. His work with this innovative 3D and multi-dimensional imaging system resulted in the visualization and detection of ocular internal structures and diseases. His imaging system can be used in a clinical setting, to aid in the diagnosis of various eye disorders."

Doctor of Philosophy (English)

• Dr. Paisley Claire Mann: "Dr. Mann studied representations of Parisian city space in nineteenth-century British fiction, travel writing and periodicals. Her work reveals that the Parisian street generated cultural anxiety, as Victorians read Paris's artificial light, public inclusion of women and cross-class leisure as signs of France's spatial and cultural superiority."
• Dr. Carmen Faye Mathes: "Dr. Mathes studied European Romantic literature and culture, and the history of aesthetics and feeling. She investigated disappointment as an aesthetic category in poetry and prose. Using affect theory, she explored the historically-specific relationships between Romantic writers, their writings, and the world in which these writings were produced."
• Dr. Jamie Paris: "Dr. Paris argues that the early modern theatre and early modern church were both concerned with keeping the attention of their audiences. One of the ways that dramatic interest in the tragedies of Marlowe and Shakespeare was generated was by staging acts that can be read as ambiguous, interrupted, failed or parodic confessions, prayers, and sermons."
• Dr. Judith Jeannine Scholes: "Dr. Scholes examined how American periodicals materially shaped the ethos of women's poetry in the mid-nineteenth century. She argues that this ethos directly impacted Emily Dickinson's representation of herself as a poet, and reveals Dickinson's life-long avoidance of publication as a commitment to specific, interpersonal, non-public, poetic address."

Doctor of Philosophy (Experimental Medicine)

• Dr. Karen Leanne Petersen: "Dr. Petersen examined psycho-social, clinical, and risk profiles of severely mentally ill individuals who were relocated as a result of the closure of BC's Riverview Hospital. Longitudinal data demonstrated positive changes in quality of life and independent living skills. In addition, there was no evidence that individuals in this study became homeless."
• Dr. Ulrike Elisabeth Lambertz: "Leishmania are small parasites that are transmitted to humans by sand flies and can cause severe disease. Dr. Lambertz examined how leishmania cause disease and can shut down the host's immune response. Her research advanced our understanding of how parasites communicate with humans and may aid in development of new drugs to treat leishmania infection."
• Dr. Peng Zhang: "Dr. Zhang studied the function of blood cells, called macrophage, in the context of atherosclerosis, the underlying cause of heart attacks. When macrophages had low activity of the eEF2K enzyme, there was less disease development. His results could one day lead to development of new drugs to block this enzyme, which could reduce heart attacks."
• Dr. Yu Yao: "Dr. Yao completed her doctoral program in Experimental Medicine. She studied how cellular stress signals modulate the crosstalk between innate and adaptive immune responses. These comprehensive studies showed for the first time that a subtype of CD4 regulatory cells, named Tr1 cells can inhibit responses to cellular stress signals."
• Dr. Marc Sze: "Dr. Sze investigated the role of bacterial communities in the lung and how they can potentially impact disease progression in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Specifically, he studied how these bacterial communities influence and drive immune and inflammatory processes, and identified specific bacteria that could be targeted by those processes."
• Dr. Joanna Catherine Caprio Triscott: "Dr. Triscott's doctoral studies focused on the development of new methods to improve the treatment of high-grade brain tumors. Her work resulted in the identification of molecular targets that drive tumor formation. This work highlights the potential for repurposing clinically available drugs to prevent the growth of aggressive brain tumors."
• Dr. Vina Phei Sean Tan: "Dr. Tan completed her doctoral studies in the field of Experimental Medicine."
• Dr. Gholamreza Safaee Ardekani: "Dr. Ardekani has studied the role of the cancer inducing gene, BRAF, in the final outcome of melanoma patients. He discovered novel variants of the BRAF gene that react against the mutant version and confer a better outcome. Dr. Ardekani's findings could be utilized to design more effective treatments for melanoma patients."
• Dr. Katherine Grace MacDonald: "Dr. MacDonald completed her doctoral program in the field of Experimental Medicine. She developed a new therapy to prevent transplant rejection by genetically modifying the immune system to protect transplanted tissue. This research could allow wait-listed patients to receive transplants sooner and reduce their need for immunosuppressive drugs."
• Dr. Jonathan Martin Han: "Obesity is associated with chronic inflammation, which greatly increases the risk of various health problems such as type 2 diabetes. Why does obesity-associated inflammation develop? Is there a way to reverse it? Dr. Han's research shows that a type of immune cells called regulatory T cells plays an important part in answering these questions."
• Dr. Natasha Ronda Ryz: "Dr. Ryz studied the ways in which vitamin D affects the gut during colitis. Her novel research showed that high levels of vitamin D can negatively affect the intestinal immune system, increasing the risk of infection by dangerous gut bacteria. Her findings may help patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease, who are at high risk of bacterial infection."
• Dr. Rachel Ann McGovern: "Dr. McGovern's research used DNA sequencing to study and predict changes in HIV caused by a new anti-HIV drug. Her work focused on the development of a clinical test to predict whether this drug should be prescribed or not, based on the genetics of a patient's HIV. This test is now part of clinical guidelines and in use around the world."
• Dr. Kathleen Lim Wee: "Using systems biology approaches, Dr. Wee investigated the molecular basis of lower immune responses against infection in newborns and adults, sixty-five years and older. This study sheds light on the molecular pathways that influence age-dependent differences in immune systems, which may result in differences in the clinical outcome of infection."
• Dr. Chanson Joachim Brumme: "Dr. Brumme used new DNA sequencing methods to improve molecular diagnostics for treating HIV and Hepatitis C virus. He also used these methods to study how HIV evolves to evade drug and immune selection pressures. Tests and tools developed as part of his research have been translated into clinical practice in British Columbia and around the world."

Doctor of Philosophy (Forestry)

• Dr. Shayesteh Haghdan: "Dr. Haghdan investigated the behavior of laminates made of wood and polyester when they are compressed. Those new bio-composites reacted to being crushed with the same absorption ability as their synthetic fibre counterparts. The advantages of these laminates are their mechanical properties, light weight, low cost and environmental benefits."
• Dr. Stephen Matthew Drenner: "Salmon migrations in the ocean are extremely challenging events. Dr. Drenner's research showed these migrations are influenced by environmental conditions and fish physiological state. These results further our understanding of the marine migration of salmon and will aid in their management and conservation."
• Dr. Ryan Ross Germain: "Dr. Germain used a long-term study of wild songbirds to examine the relative influences of habitat quality and the quality of individual birds on survival and reproductive success. This work highlights the importance of accounting for intrinsic variation among individuals when identifying the habitat features which influence their life-history."
• Dr. Francisco Paulo Vergara: "Dr. Vergara explored improvements to decision-making in lumber planning. He identified the benefits of the decision to move BC coastal forest industry firms to lean, agile or cut-to-order manufacturing environments. His study focussed especially on lumber planning decisions made in the context of new lumber product portfolios."
• Dr. Anna Susanna Malan: "Dr. Malan examined resource management, using two tans-boundary conservation case studies in southern Africa. Using a governance and a collaboration capability model, she found that the lack of formal trans-boundary institutions impede decision-making. Her findings improve our understanding of failures in trans-boundary natural resource governance."
• Dr. Julian Matias Gonzalez: "Dr. Gonzalez developed and taught a sustainability leadership course. It was designed to fill a gap in higher education, by empowering students to develop the skills to mobilize purposeful change in today's complex world. His analysis of outcomes suggest a need for more courses and programs that integrate practical and embodied leadership skills."
• Dr. Wolf Read: "Dr. Read analyzed the windstorms that affected southwest BC from 1994 to 2012, and modeled related damage to the electrical grid. Power outages were found to be nearly certain for winds above 60 km/h, and outage frequency increased exponentially with peak wind speed. Outage forecasts help utilities improve grid resiliency, keeping our cell phones on."

Doctor of Philosophy (Geography)

• Dr. Sophie Rachel Webber: "In order to address the impacts of climate change, international development institutions implement adaptation policies. Dr. Webber's research critically examined these attempts to adapt. She found prevailing approaches are insufficient for addressing climate impacts in the vulnerable Small Island Developing States of Kiribati and Solomon Islands."

Doctor of Philosophy (Geological Sciences)

• Dr. Tyler Ruks: "Dr. Ruks demonstrated that vast tracts of Vancouver Island are the remnants of a previously unrecognized chain of volcanoes, three hundred million years old, that originated far off the coast of North America. The geology of these ancient volcanoes suggests that they are likely to contain significant deposits of both base and precious metals."
• Dr. Jack Edward Milton: "Dr. Milton studied the geology of the copper deposits of the Mackenzie Mountains, in the Northwest Territories. He discovered that the copper was concentrated by the convection of hot, salty fluids, long after the sedimentary host-rocks were formed. His research will aid explorers and prospectors in their search for Earth's copper resources."
• Dr. Sharon Blackmore: "Dr. Blackmore studied the flow of water through waste rock that mining companies pile up following excavation. She developed methods to analyze and understand flow rates, and the chemical make-up of the water that seeps from stockpiled waste. These methods can help industry develop ways to manage the potential effects of contaminated water."
• Dr. Erik Munson: "Dr. Munson studied the geology of unconventional oil and gas reservoirs. As conventional reservoirs are being depleted, focus is shifting to more complex sources of these hydrocarbons. He improved current methods and developed new methods to study unconventional reservoirs in order to better understand the location and production of oil and gas."
• Dr. David James Turner: "Dr. Turner's research in the field of geoscience was a collaboration between the University of British Columbia and the University of Alberta. He explored the way light interacts with minerals of strategic importance using reflectance spectroscopy. The findings of his research have already been harnessed by geoscience and remote sensing communities."

Doctor of Philosophy (Geophysics)

• Dr. Xiang Li: "Dr. Li studied ways to reduce the costs of the technology for seismology imaging. He proposed a new method that can reduce the prohibitively expensive computational cost of imaging and inversion techniques. With his method, the oil and gas industry can obtain images of subsurface oil and gas reservoirs at feasible costs, without sacrificing quality."
• Dr. Ning Tu: "Dr. Tu's research focuses on using sound waves to detect the internal structure of the earth. He developed a method that uses echoes from the sound waves to reveal more details of the shallow earth structure. By producing a more accurate prediction of geological hazards near the surface, this new approach will lead to much safer drilling operations."
• Dr. Marianne Haseloff: "Ice streams are narrow, fast-flowing regions within an ice sheet, and they account for the majority of the Antarctic ice loss. Dr. Haseloff studied the migration of ice streams. Her work allows us to include this process in models of the Antarctic ice sheet, and improves our ability to predict Antarctic ice loss and contribution to sea level rise."

Doctor of Philosophy (Germanic Studies)

• Dr. Ursula Maria Baer: "Dr. Baer focused on how wards of the state are portrayed in German literature from the 18th to the 20th centuries. Her research advances our understanding of the international history of foster care, and of how literature, their translations and literary studies contribute to society's understanding and perception of that history and of those in care."

Doctor of Philosophy (History)

• Dr. Denzil Ford: "What would the world be like without things? Dr. Ford spun the impossibility of that question on its head. He surfaced the vital role of the material world at sea in producing oceanic knowledge in the mid- 20th century. Things of the sea turn up in stories, and her study demonstrates how science and narrative have at times been one and the same."

Doctor of Philosophy (Human Development, Learning, and Culture)

• Dr. Kristen Goessling: "Dr. Goessling studied the ways in which youth activists in a social justice organization construct meaning from their experiences. This research resulted in a set of narratives describing what it means to be a youth in a neoliberal society. These stories of young people's engagement with society reveal ways in which youth transform it, and themselves."

Doctor of Philosophy (Human Nutrition)

• Dr. Kelly Ann Mulder: "Dr. Mulder studied the role of dietary fats during early brain development. She identified that some women in Vancouver had omega-3 fatty acid deficiency, and that their babies were more likely to have slower development. Although the long-term effects are unclear, her work improves our understanding of nutritional needs in the developing brain."

Doctor of Philosophy (Integrated Studies in Land and Food Systems)

• Dr. William Cameron Valley: "Dr. Valley completed his doctoral research in Integrated Studies in Land and Food Systems."

Doctor of Philosophy (Interdisciplinary Oncology)

• Dr. Rawa Ibrahim: "Dr. Ibrahim studied the development of pre-leukemia disorders at the BC Cancer Research Centre. Her work has led to a better understanding of how malignant cells interact with normal components of the bone marrow. She has identified important signaling pathways that can be therapeutically targeted in the fight against blood cancers."
• Dr. Pier-Luc Clermont: "Dr. Clermont explored novel avenues to treat prostate cancer. by analyzing proteins controlling genetic activity. He discovered that a protein called CBX2 is involved in the progression of prostate cancer. His studies demonstrated that blocking the action of CBX2 may represent a novel therapeutic strategy against advanced prostate cancer."

Doctor of Philosophy (Interdisciplinary Studies)

• Dr. Devon Lara Greyson: "What do young parents do with health information, and how does it affect health outcomes? Dr. Greyson found that parents have complex, sophisticated methods for assessing health information. These findings will help public health organizations and educators use information more effectively to improve the health of young parents and their children."
• Dr. Katrina Lisa Nakamura: "What's the story behind seafood on the table? Were producers and fisheries helped or harmed in production? Dr. Nakamura investigated effects from voluntary measures for sustainable seafood in an era of overfishing. Her findings show that new forms of industry self-regulation have led to agreement on ways to fix unsustainable practices."
• Dr. Patrick Robert R Stewart: "Dr. Stewart investigated how the culture of Indigenous architects informs their designs. This is the first known research to privilege the use of Indigenous Knowledge by Indigenous architects. Results of this research will inform the future education of Indigenous and non-Indigenous students in architecture and their practice within the profession."

Doctor of Philosophy (Kinesiology)

• Dr. Caitlin Pentifallo: "Dr. Pentifallo studied the effect of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games on urban policies in Vancouver. She explored attempts to create social housing units in False Creek and policing measures in the Downtown Eastside. This study could help citizens and city planners to anticipate the effects of major events on urban policy making."

Doctor of Philosophy (Language and Literacy Education)

• Dr. Joel Heng Hartse: "Dr. Heng Hartse studied the reactions of English teachers to language useage they perceived as incorrect in student essays. He found that their perceptions of correctness, and their explanations for the evaluations they made, were highly subjective. This work has implications for anyone who works with second language writers and their texts."
• Dr. Joseph Cecil Stouffer: "Dr. Stouffer examined Reading Recovery training, an early literacy intervention. He investigated whether that training could be transferred into the literacy instruction in Canadian primary classrooms. This research adds to discussion of teacher preparation and professional development, and those teachers' personal theories of literacy instruction."

Doctor of Philosophy (Law)

• Dr. Eberechi Ifeonu: "Dr. Ifeonu examined the African Union's opposition to attempts by some Western states to prosecute some government officials of its member states. He found that this, in part, is caused by the African region's suspicion of the West. This knowledge would stimulate discussions aimed at encouraging other forms of justice enforcement mechanisms."

Doctor of Philosophy (Linguistics)

• Dr. Jennifer Abel: "People in conversation tend to adopt each other's speech patterns. Dr. Abel explored whether working on a difficult task would affect that tendency, and found that partners building a more difficult Lego construction showed less convergence than those building an easier one. This research gives insight into the mechanisms behind speech convergence."
• Dr. Michael Erik McAuliffe: "Dr. McAuliffe studied speech perception, the field in linguistics that focuses on how listeners are able to perceive and understand speech. Specifically, he focussed on perceptual learning, which refers to how listeners update their perceptual system in response to hearing speech. His findings contribute to cognitive models of speech perception."
• Dr. Analia Gutierrez: "Dr. Gutiérrez investigated a series of phonological and phonetic aspects of Nivale, an endangered language of the Argentinean/Paraguayan Chaco. She focused on several phenomena that deal with the representation, distribution, and organization of sounds in Nivale, contributing major insights from both typological and theoretical perspectives."

Doctor of Philosophy (Materials Engineering)

• Dr. Alexander Burns: "Dr. Burns conducted his research on the extraction and purification of metals. He developed a new process for extracting uranium from mined ore using a novel electrochemical technique. This process has the potential to both lower the cost of uranium production at a mine site, and reduce the amount of waste generated."
• Dr. Elizabeth Anne Sterling: "Dr. Sterling completed her research in Materials Engineering and studied magnesium-neodymium alloys for use in automobiles. She found that neodymium drastically alters the behaviour of magnesium during forming, when the initial heat treatments are varied. These results show new ways to use magnesium to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions of vehicles."
• Dr. Yingjie Li: "Dr. Li studied lignin, an organic substance found in trees that binds the wood fibres. She demonstrated that lignin can be used as a substitute material in electronic products, lithium-ion batteries and sensors. Her findings contribute, not only to the scientific understanding of biomaterials, but also to the growth of the bio-economy in Canada."
• Dr. Payman Babaghorbani: "The aluminum alloys used for heat exchangers, such as those found in car radiators, are complex to manufacture. Dr. Babaghorbani engineered the microstructure of those alloys and produced different mechanical properties. Using his results, he developed a model to predict the mechanical properties of the alloys, which will have industrial application."
• Dr. Morteza Toloui: "Dr. Toloui developed a model to evaluate changes in the microstructure of oil and gas pipelines designed for the Arctic. His studies focused on the welds that are critical for the integrity of pipelines. His findings may contribute to improve safety of pipelines by providing deeper insight into microstructure changes at weaker areas of pipelines."
• Dr. Michael James Gaudet: "Dr. Gaudet conducted research into the mechanical properties of high strength steel pipelines, in the heat affected zone caused by welding. He showed the robust nature of the steel at typical pipeline operating temperatures. Dr. Gaudet's work improves our understanding of the mechanical behaviour in the heat affected zones of pipelines."

Doctor of Philosophy (Mathematics)

• Dr. Vasu Vineet Tewari: "Dr. Tewari completed his doctoral work in mathematics, focusing on research in the field of combinatorics, and spending many hours counting. He studied a prominent analogue of the ubiquitous Schur functions. These functions show up and have applications in fields as diverse as Informatics and Quantum theory."
• Dr. Maxim Stykow: "Dr. Stykow completed his doctoral research in the field of mathematics. He studied the nature of topological spaces and computed important invariants that help distinguish them from one another."
• Dr. Iain Ross Moyles: "Dr. Moyles examined a mathematical model of pattern formation, which has relevance to growth of organisms, patterning on seashells, and even hot spots of crime in urban communities. The significance of his contribution was the role of the saturation of a particular chemical species on the formation, longevity, and evolution of patterns."
• Dr. Kyle David Hambrook: "Dr. Hambrook studied the Fourier transform, which is the mathematical operation that decomposes a signal into its component frequencies. The Fourier transform is a fundamental tool in science, engineering, and technology. Dr. Hambrook's work has provided powerful insights into the deep geometric and arithmetic structure of this important operation."
• Dr. Bernhard Paul Konrad: "Dr. Konrad developed mathematical models to obtain insights into the dynamics of infectious diseases. His work is the first to rigorously quantify the confidence in an early negative HIV RNA test, evaluate a Vancouver anti-HIV campaign and model a novel anti-malaria agent. His results help to guide decisions of patients, clinicians and policymakers."
• Dr. Jielin Zhu: "Dr. Zhu studied biological and environmental models of abrupt changes or catastrophic events. Those events, called tipping, can arrive early due to various factors. She developed methods to identify the key factors leading to early tipping. She demonstrated how the models can be used in the study of Arctic sea ice."
• Dr. William Frederick Thompson: "Dr. Thompson studied methods used to estimate parameters and approximate the behaviour of time-dependent random processes. He used a new parameter estimator on wind velocity data and derived approximations for infinite-variance processes inspired by climate research. These results will aid scientists in modelling complex aspects of climate."
• Dr. Thomas Kai Sik Wong: "Can combinatorial models be used to study linear polymers? Dr. Wong used mathematical models to predict the physical behaviour of linear polymers confined in a slit, concluding that the results realistically mimic experimental findings. The methods in this project can be used to study a variety of other problems both within and outside mathematics."
• Dr. Cindy Marie Blois: "Looking at even the most ordinary objects at the tiniest of scales, we see particles that behave in strange, un-intuitive ways, according to quantum mechanics. Similarly, if matter cools to very low temperatures, its behaviour may become strange and quantum. Dr. Blois derived rigorous formulas aimed to describe this low-temperature quantum behaviour"
• Dr. Alexandre Tomberg: "Dr. Tomberg's research in probability and statistical mechanics focused on applying a rigorous renormalisation group method to compute critical correlation functions. This research contributes to our understanding of statistical properties of interacting systems in the vicinity of a critical point."
• Dr. Michael Robert Lindstrom: "Dr. Lindstrom worked on predicting the operation of a magnetized target fusion reactor, a design for clean energy that crushes a plasma in an imploding shell of molten metal. By writing a program to simulate the system, and a careful series of pencil-and-paper estimates, he inferred key features of the device and ways to improve its efficiency."
• Dr. Wen Yang: "Dr. Yang studied two problems: SU(3) Toda system and Lin-Ni Problem. For the first problem, he obtained a partial result on the degree counting formula of the system and existence results for the parameters in some specific range. For the second one, he constructed a non-trivial solution to the Lin-Ni problem, which disproves the Lin-Ni conjecture."

Doctor of Philosophy (Measurement, Evaluation and Research Methodology)

• Dr. Tavinder Kaur Ark: "Dr. Ark focused on introducing a method for estimating the variance components required for generalizability theory (GT) with ordered categorical ratings. This research provides a proof of concept of this method, called ordinal GT. It offer researchers a new statistical avenue for computing relative G-coefficients when using ordinal variables"

Doctor of Philosophy (Mechanical Engineering)

• Dr. Jack Szu-Shen Chen: "Dr. Chen's doctoral research aimed at simplifying 3D computer modeling for engineering applications. He developed a novel system that allows users to freely manipulate complex 3D engineering models as easily as a child playing with clay. His work finally opens up engineering 3D modeling to users with any modeling skill level."
• Dr. Benjamin Mustin: "Dr. Mustin investigated several research questions associated with the transport of particles in microfluidic devices. His work provides models that describe the effects of flow field and image filters on the measurement depth in micro particle image velocimetry. He shows that particle motion near walls is hindered by non-hydrodynamic effects."
• Dr. Ida Karimfazli: "Dr. Karimfazli studied the buoyancy-driven flow of non-Newtonian fluids. Her research provides insight into various peculiarities of these flows, such as simultaneous development of solid-like and fluid-like features. Her thesis paves the way to understanding various industrial and natural processes ranging from cementing to mantle convection."
• Dr. Mauricio Alberto Escalante Soberanis: "Dr. Escalante Soberanis advanced the science of wind turbine deployment, for renewable energy production. He partnered with the global turbine manufacturer, Vestas, to develop new approaches to analyse wind data, for the study of wind variations. His results can lead to better control system strategies and enable reduced costs and increased efficiency."
• Dr. Yunfei Zhang: "Dr. Zhang studied navigation systems in small robots. He developed the technology so that those mobile robots can learn to detect obstacles and people in a home environment, and avoid bumping into them. This research shows promising developments in the use of robots to assist the elderly and the differently abled in daily activities."
• Dr. James Montgomery: "Dr. Montgomery's research focussed on the impact of air filtration on energy use and air quality in the built environment. His findings showed the potential to improve the air quality in existing buildings while, at the same time, reducing building energy consumption. This work will assist in the design of energy efficient, healthy buildings."
• Dr. Ashkan Babaie: "Dr. Babaie studied the drying mechanism of polymer solution films used in 3D printers. Using advanced experimentation, he developed a mathematical model to explain the complex behavior of polymer solution droplets while drying. His work advances printing technology and the cost-effective fabrication of microstructures such as microneedles."

Doctor of Philosophy (Medical Genetics)

• Dr. Jonathan Michael Heppner: "Dr. Heppner's doctoral research focussed on a rare, inherited childhood disease known as MPS-1. He used genomic technologies to demonstrate that the disease is more complex and begins earlier than previously thought. He developed a novel model of the disease's mechanisms that will guide future research and support early diagnosis and treatment."

Doctor of Philosophy (Microbiology and Immunology)

• Dr. Robyn Jamie Law: "Dr. Law's research in Microbiology and Immunology showed how pathogenic E.coli hijacks host intracellular transport to promote infection. Her work provides a more detailed understanding of how E. coli alters host cellular functions as part of the disease process. Her findings could have important implications for research into intestinal diseases."
• Dr. Morgan Roberts: "Dr. Roberts studied intestinal inflammation and the role of a protein called Lyn, which is important in the immune system. She identified Lyn as a regulator of host-microbial interactions in the gut, which ultimately dictate intestinal health and disease. This work contributes to a growing field in immunology which targets inflammatory bowel disease."
• Dr. Jennifer Mary-Helen Geddes: "Dr. Geddes studied the fungal cause of life-threatening meningitis in HIV/AIDS patients. Her research provided a better understanding of the disease process and identified new therapeutic options, including a novel drug with excellent potential for combating infection. Her research will significantly benefit both the research and medical communities."
• Dr. Esther Anna Gies: "In her research, Dr. Gies illuminated a unique and previously unrecognized microbial community that thrives in the dark, methane-saturated waters of Sakinaw Lake. Using cutting edge technologies she gained insight into their ability to produce methane, and unveiled an economic potential that could eventually lead to a more sustainable future."
• Dr. Cedric Arthur Brimacombe: "Dr. Brimacombe studied genetic exchange elements in bacteria called gene transfer agents. He discovered that those gene transfer agents are functionally a blend of two different bacterial genetic exchange processes: natural genetic transformation and virus-mediated transduction. These findings have important implications in bacterial evolution."
• Dr. Andrew Cameron: "Dr. Cameron discovered a mutation hotspot in the diarrhea-causing pathogen, Campylobacter jejuni. His research revealed that specific high frequency mutations promote stress resistance that enables rapid adaptation and enhances survival of the bacterium in infected human cells. This work helps explain the prevalence of Campylobacter infections."
• Dr. Joris Van der Heijden: "Dr. Van der Heijden studied interactions between Salmonella and the oxidative burst. His findings illuminate a paradoxical relationship between the pathogen and oxidative stress revealing additional layers of complexity in host-pathogen interactions. His research may one day contribute to better antimicrobial therapies."
• Dr. Michael David Jones: "Dr. Jones' doctoral research focused on the outer surface of a harmless bacterium that you probably consume every day in tap water. His work determined the complex chemical structures on the outside of this bacterium. The findings from his study will facilitate the development of the microbial surface into a platform for biotechnological innovation."
• Dr. Asanga Samarakoon: "Dr. Samarakoon studied the role of a receptor, CD45, in inflammatory bowel disease. She showed that CD45 modulates the production of inflammatory cytokines by immune cells and also the migration of those cells to the intestines. Her work provides further insight into how immune cells communicate and may provide new avenues for treatment of colitis."
• Dr. Meera Ajitsinh Raj: "Dr. Raj investigated whether the human enzyme known as GAP-DH is important for the lifecycle steps of human viruses that cause serious illness. She discovered that the enzyme is needed for hepatitis C virus and dengue virus infections in human cells. This research may lead to development of new antiviral drugs to fight the infections."

Doctor of Philosophy (Mining Engineering)

• Dr. Zorigtkhuu Davaanyam: "Dr. Davaanyam's research advanced the application of High Pressure Grinding Roll, an energy efficient technology used to break up rocks. He developed three laboratory scale tests that allow assessment of the technology in the early stages of a mining project. This technology reduces overall energy usage of mining operations by up to thirty percent."
• Dr. Jacqueline Laura Nelsen: "Dr. Nelsen studied the relationship between various factors and stakeholders, to understand their influence on mine development in BC between 1952 and 2014. Her research demonstrates that along with technical development risk, and environmental and land access issues, federal and provincial politics also play a significant role in BC mine development."
• Dr. Jophat Engwayu: "Dr. Engwayu studied the interaction between quartz and hematite particles during the processing of iron ore. He focussed on mineral flotation systems and applied novel tools to identify optimum conditions for mineral separation. These tools will help improve the efficiency of iron ore processing and the mining industry"
• Dr. Haitham Magdi Ahmed: "Dr. Haitham identified strategies that can be used to accelerate the construction process in cave mining systems. He developed a method suitable for investigating how certain strategies affected the construction rates. He developed an approach that can be used to evaluate the cost of implementing decisions to accelerate construction."

Doctor of Philosophy (Neuroscience)

• Dr. Jillian Frances Vinall: "Dr. Vinall demonstrated that greater exposure to neo-natal pain was related to slower growth, altered brain development and poorer cognitive and behavioural outcomes in children born very pre-term. Positive parent interactions helped to ameliorate the effect of pain on behaviour. This work contributes to understanding the development of pre-term infants."
• Dr. Lasse Dissing-Olesen: "Dr. Dissing-Olesen discovered two novel modes of communication between the brain's neurons and the brain's immune cells. These fascinating findings provide new insight into the functional role of the brain's immune cells in the healthy and diseased brain."
• Dr. Evan Lorne Ardiel: "Dr. Ardiel investigated the ways in which experience can change brains. He identified two signalling pathways that shape performance on a newly-established learning task. Identifying the molecular basis of learning and memory is essential for developing treatments for neurodegenerative disorders and memory deficits associated with ageing."
• Dr. Aqsa Malik: "Dr. Malik investigated channels that allow calcium entry into brain cells. Her work provided a new mechanism by which these channels contribute to signal transmission in the hippocampus. Her findings have advanced our understanding of information processing in a brain region associated with learning and memory functions."
• Dr. Martin Amos Spacek: "How does the brain work? Dr. Spacek used silicon micro-electrodes to simultaneously record the electrical activity of many brain cells in the visual cortex. Under specific conditions, brain cell activity was highly consistent in response to repeated presentation of a movie stimulus, showing that the brain can be more reliable than previously thought."

Doctor of Philosophy (Nursing)

• Dr. Elaine Marie Moody: "Dr. Moody examined nurses' practice of judging the cognitive functions of older people in hospital. She found nurses make complex judgments based on interactions with patients, shared nursing knowledge, and social norms related to documentation systems. The research highlights the invisibility of nurses' knowledge, and points to ways to improve care."
• Dr. Shari Ann Laliberte: "Dr. Laliberte explored the influence of socio-economic processes on the mental health of young people. She studied the experiences of thirty youth between fifteen and twenty-eight years of age and from diverse backgrounds, in relation to mental health policy. Her work offers guidance for youth mental health promotion from a socio-economic perspective."
• Dr. Leslie Kim Daly: "Dr. Daly compared the ideas that young people and clinicians have about sexual health care. She found that young people wanted acceptance and support in navigating both the dangers and pleasures of sexual activity. This research can help clinicians provide more effective and sex-positive care, relevant to the diverse needs of young people."
• Dr. Emily Jenkins: "Dr. Jenkins' research focuses on mental health and community-based intervention development. Her findings illuminate how context shapes mental health, and she has contributed to a framework to guide evidence-based action. This research aids in addressing a leading public health challenge through creation of context-relevant mental health interventions."

Doctor of Philosophy (Oceanography)

• Dr. Elizabeth Colleen Asher: "The marine gas dimethyl sulfide plays a role in natural climate regulation by bridging the atmospheric and oceanic sulfur cycles. Dr. Asher developed new methods to measure the variability and production of this gas across time and space. Her work advances our understanding of the marine sulfur cycle and informs climate change research."
• Dr. Jason Alan McAlister: "Dr. McAlister measured trace metals in both the Pacific and Arctic oceans. His research identified new applications to determine how the sources of trace metals and nutrients in those oceans vary with depth, location and, importantly, time. These findings contribute to research investigating the influence of the oceans on global climate change."
• Dr. Rodrigo Marco Montes-Aste: "Dr. Montes-Aste found fractal patterns in the temporal dynamics of commercial shrimp catches off the BC coast. He discovered a close link between a long-range temporal memory in fisheries and oceanographic variability. This led to development of a novel early warning indicator to be used in predicting major changes through the history of the fishery."

Doctor of Philosophy (Pathology and Laboratory Medicine)

• Dr. Jennifer Renae Won: "Dr. Won examined the performance of breast cancer biomarkers in hospital laboratories across Canada. Through her research, she helped to develop an improved diagnostic test for basal-like breast cancer. Her work highlights the importance of effective quality assurance and quality control, in order to ensure optimal cancer patient care and safety."
• Dr. Jithendra Gunawardana: "Dr. Gunawardana's doctoral studies focused on discovering novel mutations that are frequent in B cell lymphoma, the cancer in blood cells. He found these gene mutations play an important role in the formation of these cancers. These findings will lead to the development of potential new drugs and better treatments for patients affected by lymphoma."
• Dr. Junyan Shi: "Dr. Shi studied the mechanisms contributing to virus-induced heart diseases. She investigate autophagy, a protein degradation pathway, and the critical role it plays in viral infection. Her research findings will aid in the development of novel anti-viral therapies, and contribute to improvements in the prognosis for viral-induced heart diseases."
• Dr. Yu Chi Kevin Yang: "Dr. Yang investigated new treatments for advanced prostate cancer. He studied novel compounds for their effectiveness in overcoming the molecular mechanisms that can cause cancer progression, and resistance to current treatments. He showed that a drug candidate developed by his research group may cure a lethal and incurable form of prostate cancer."
• Dr. Jaswinder Khattra: "Dr. Khattra researched the application of next generation DNA sequencing, computational modeling, and single-cell analysis protocols to elucidate breast and ovarian tumour heterogeneity and clonal evolution. He advanced the cause of improved classification and combinatorial treatment of diverse subpopulations of cells in epithelial tumours."

Doctor of Philosophy (Pharmaceutical Sciences)

• Dr. Safwat Mohamed Mohamed: "Dr. Mohamed's doctoral studies focussed on development of inhibitors for the Rho-kinase enzyme. This enzyme plays an important role in the development of many diseases. Dr. Mohamed developed novel chemical inhibitors for the enzyme. His findings will aid in the design of new treatments for cardiovascular diseases, cancer and diabetes."

Doctor of Philosophy (Pharmacology)

• Dr. Kimberley Anne Pitman: "Dopamine is a chemical in the human brain that is important for decision making. Dr. Pitman investigated how dopamine is regulated and what impact obesity has. She found that the mechanisms responsible for reducing dopamine release were not affected by obesity. Her work contributes to understanding how obesity can alter the decisions that we make."

Doctor of Philosophy (Philosophy)

• Dr. Christopher Forbes French: "Dr. French investigated how the philosopher Rudolf Carnap understood logic as a kind of conceptual technology. The result is philosophy as conceptual engineering: scientific concepts can be designed and constructed to satisfy the pragmatic demands of scientists. His work has implications for how to view the conceptual foundations of the sciences."

Doctor of Philosophy (Physics)

• Dr. Omid Nourbakhsh: "Dr. Nourbakhsh constructed electrical molecular decelerators for the first time in Canada, at UBC. Using these decelerators, called Stark Decelerators, the molecules can be slowed down and trapped, and then their interaction with light and matter can be accurately investigated. These results can help in making future molecular quantum computers."
• Dr. Jessica Lange Ford: "Dr. Ford studied the properties of thousands of galaxy clusters in large astronomical surveys. She developed new techniques for measuring the amount and distribution of dark matter, using the gravitational bending of light rays. This work contributes to our understanding of structure formation in the universe."
• Dr. Silvestre Aguilar-Martinez: "Dr. Aguilar constructed computer simulations to model the behaviour of a gas which is at the brink of gravitational collapse. One of his goals was to analyze previously unexplored rotational effects on this critically collapsing gas. This work helps elucidate the formation and properties of exotic astrophysical objects commonly known as black holes."
• Dr. Matheson Edward Longton: "String field theory is a mathematical model for the collective motion of microscopic strands of energy and how they affect their environment. Dr. Longton used this model to study how these strings can describe new theories where objects have moved or decayed. This work is another step towards using the physics of one universe to construct others."
• Dr. Anton Smessaert: "Dr. Smessaert studied computional models of polymer glasses with the goal to better understand plastics and related materials. He illuminated microscopic processes that link mechanical activity to weak points in the molecular structure. The results provide new insights that assist the development of a theory of plasticity for non-crystalline solids."
• Dr. Sandra Michelle Meyers: "Dr. Meyers completed her doctoral research in the field of Physics. She developed a tool to measure water and myelin in the brain with magnetic resonance imaging. She used this technique to study changes in brain water due to dehydration and multiple sclerosis drugs. This tool will be useful for evaluating the effects of treatments for brain disease."
• Dr. Nikita Blinov: "Dr. Blinov studied extensions of the Standard Model of particle physics to understand the origins of dark matter and of the matter-antimatter asymmetry. He developed new models addressing these issues, making use of phase transitions in the Early Universe. These ideas will be tested at particle colliders and in experiments searching for dark matter."
• Dr. Chao Han: "Dr. Han applied analytical and numerical methods of quantum mechanics to solve several controversies in molecular physics. He showed the common mechanisms in the formation of ultracold molecules, and the response of molecules to coherent and incoherent light. His work outlined a consistent, novel route towards laser control of molecular processes."
• Dr. Elham Alipour Khayer: "Dr. Alipour studied events that happened billions of years ago when the Universe was very young. She investigated the effects of these events on the evolution of the Universe, and proposed satellite missions to deepen our understanding of the young Universe. Her results improve the current theories, to better test cosmology with the upcoming data."
• Dr. Jason Carl Radel: "Dr. Radel designed and tested a new way to redirect beams of light. In particular, this method for directing a light beam uses electronics and does not require mechanical moving parts. This discovery has many applications, including telecommunications, where it can be used in fiber-optic networks to reduce the cost of sending and receiving information."
• Dr. Rocky Yat Cheung So: "Dr. So searched for a subatomic particle predicted by a principle called supersymmetry. Such a particle may be an origin of mass. By analyzing particle decays produced in a laboratory, Dr. So ruled out many possible ways the particle can exist. His results significantly constrain supersymmetry and improve our understanding of the nature of mass."
• Dr. Thomas Andrew Depew: "Dr. Depew completed his doctoral studies in the field of Physics. He investigated Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, which provides a broad range of diagnostic capability in medical applications. Dr. Depew's research contributed novel techniques to improve image acquisition and reconstruction fidelity in Magnetic Resonance Imaging."
• Dr. Alain Prat: "Dr. Prat completed his doctoral research at UBC in the field of Physics. During his program, the focus of his study was black holes in a cosmological context. He was able to demonstrate that black holes can merge with cosmological horizons, and that this merger has many intriguing mathematical properties."

Doctor of Philosophy (Political Science)

• Dr. Kelsey Radcliffe Wrightson: "Dr. Wrightson's research looked at the ways in which Indigenous peoples challenge museum exhibitions that reflect a colonial perspective. She found that Indigenous communities engage museums directly by creating new pieces and representing themselves. The result of these engagements supports Indigenous decolonizing political movements."
• Dr. Agustin Alonso Goenaga Orrego: "Dr. Goenaga investigated why some states are successful in providing valuable services to their populations, while others are plagued by corruption and inefficiency. He showed that the organizations that citizens adopt to interact with political authorities determine their collective capabilities to build safe and prosperous societies."
• Dr. Pascale Massot: "Dr. Massot's dissertation investigates China's impact on the global iron ore, potash and uranium markets. She showed that market power imbalances between Chinese and international market stakeholders influence outcomes. Some important changes, including the liberalization of the iron ore market, were the result of a Chinese position of weakness."
• Dr. Konrad Marcin Kalicki: "Dr. Kalicki examined the reasons East Asian states respond differently to pressures to supplement their domestic labour markets with foreign workers. He found that security fears and bureaucratic rivalry condition the admission of low-skilled migrants. These findings add to our understanding of the politics of labour importation in advanced economies."
• Dr. Daniel Voth: "Dr. Voth's research helps to explain the political divisions between Métis and First Nations peoples living in Manitoba's Red River Valley. Dr. Voth traced the roots of Métis-First Nations political tensions, and developed a framework for building a de-colonial political movement that includes both First Nations peoples and the Métis."
• Dr. Clare Joanna McGovern: "Dr. McGovern studied separatism in Québec, Scotland and Ireland. She found that separatists often participate peacefully in political institutions and co-operate with governments. This research shows how democracy can work, even when there are fundamental divisions within a country, and that separatism does not inevitably lead to violent conflict."

Doctor of Philosophy (Population and Public Health)

• Dr. Jacquelyn Judith Cragg: "Dr. Cragg completed her doctoral studies in the field of Population and Public Health."
• Dr. Lianping Ti: "Dr. Ti studied the healthcare of illicit drug users in hospital settings. She found that hospitals can act as an environment that increases the risk of negative health outcomes among this population. Her research has important public health implications as it points to the need for harm reduction programs to be integrated in hospitals."

Doctor of Philosophy (Psychology)

• Dr. Kostadin Petrov Kushlev: "Dr. Kushlev examined the psychological consequences of living in a connected wireless world. He showed that smartphones might prevent people from reaping the benefits from their daily social interactions. His findings highlight the importance of developing portable digital devices designed to support our in-person social interactions."
• Dr. Katherine Helen Rogers: "Dr. Rogers examined how people form accurate first impressions of others. By studying pairs of people, or dyads, she found that impressions were influenced by the personality of the individuals and the characteristics of the interaction. This shows the importance of the nature of the dyadic interaction in determining the accuracy of first impressions."
• Dr. Sanjay Michael Muthukrishna: "Dr. Muthukrishna developed theories to explain the evolution of the human brain and human social networks. He used mathematical and computational modeling techniques to construct theories, then tested them using psychological experiments. His findings suggest that human "smarts" are acquired, not hardwired, and the key lies in our social networks."
• Dr. Rachelle Dominelli: "Dr. Dominelli studied young women with disordered eating and alcohol use. She applied psychobiological measures to examine their emotional responses, and their ability to regulate these responses. This study refines our understanding of the relationship between emotions and bingeing behaviour and has implications for prevention and treatment."
• Dr. Tracy Gardiner Cassels: "Dr. Cassels studied the ways in which we measure children's ability to understand what other people are thinking and feeling. Her research revealed how elements of the measurement process can bias this assessment. Her research highlights changes that can be made to improve the accuracy of measurement instruments for children."
• Dr. Alison Carol Welsted: "Dr. Welsted developed a model to explain the excessive accumulation of objects by individuals with hoarding disorder. Her results suggest that these individuals are particularly adept at finding value in items others consider worthless. This work contributes to a better understanding of this complex and little studied form of psychopathology."
• Dr. Aiyana Koka Willard: "Dr. Willard examined how basic cognitive functions and cultural environments come together to create complex, supernatural belief systems. She found that some people are more likely than others to see the world as supernatural. Still, cultural learning explained the most of the variance in who adopted or abandoned a specific religious belief system."
• Dr. Season Tompkins: "Dr. Tompkins studied commonalities between bipolar and alcohol use disorders. She found that certain aspects of impulsivity play an important role in mediating the relationship between hypomanic personality features and alcohol use. This research supports the idea there may be a common vulnerability to bipolar and alcohol use disorders."
• Dr. Tiffany Tien Yan Lee: "Dr. Lee studied the neural basis of stress and emotional behavior in adolescence. She found that neural and behavioural responses to stress exposure differ across the life span. Her research enhances our understanding of how stress and cannabis exposure affects the developing brain, behaviour, and the development of stress-related disease."

Doctor of Philosophy (Rehabilitation Sciences)

• Dr. Alison Jayne Gerlach: "Dr. Gerlach identified how an early intervention program fostered health equity for Indigenous children, by being responsive to the lived realities and priorities of Indigenous families. This socially responsive form of intervention challenges our assumptions about early childhood programming for families and children who experience marginalization."

Doctor of Philosophy (Reproductive and Developmental Sciences)

• Dr. Tsung-Sheng Wu: "Actions of sex steroid hormones in humans are regulated by a transporter protein in the blood. Dr. Wu's research revealed how genetic variations alter production and functions of this protein. In the era of personalized medicine, his research may improve current counselling, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of endocrine or metabolic disorders."
• Dr. Xin Qiu: "Dr. Qiu studied the signaling pathways of the epidermal growth factor receptor in human ovarian cancer. She examined how the invasiveness and proliferation of the cancer cells are regulated by those pathways. Her findings advance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that regulate the progression of ovarian cancer and inform prevention strategies."
• Dr. Yan Li: "Dr. Li studied the way in which the implantation of human placenta is regulated by a protein named activin. That protein is found where the fetus connects with the mother. The findings provide insights into the biology of placenta implantation, and can improve the diagnosis and treatment methods used in pregnancies with dysfunctional placenta."
• Dr. Han Zhang: "Dr. Zhang studied Reproductive and Developmental Sciences. She showed how oocyte-derived growth factors in the human ovarian cells regulate sex hormone production and ovulation. This knowledge will aid in the understanding of ovulation and the findings will help therapies of female infertility and improve In-Vitro Fertilization protocols."

Doctor of Philosophy (School Psychology)

• Dr. Alexandra Diane Carter: "Dr. Carter studied how families and schools work collaboratively to support adolescents with mental health disorders. She used a critical incidents approach, which identified the importance of having an advocate, understanding disorders, and having accommodations. This research added an understanding the school-based needs of parents and youth."

Doctor of Philosophy (Social Work)

• Dr. Kristin Carol Kendrick: "Dr. Kendrick examined the role of relationships in sexual assault disclosures. She found that survivor relationships with peers to whom they described their assaults shaped the responses survivors received. By further understanding responses to disclosures, this research provides insight into how to improve support to sexual assault survivors."

Doctor of Philosophy (Sociology)

• Dr. Caitlin Andrea Forsey: "Dr. Forsey analyzed the relationship between New Age spiritualism and 21st century capitalism in the United States. She demonstrated how New Age attitudes about profit-making and work draw on the Hindu doctrines of Karma and Dharma. These attitudes influence a unique form of online entrepreneurship that draws on the virtues of service and generosity."
• Dr. Norma Jean Morgan: "Dr. Morgan examined the experiences of Indigenous women working part-time and at seasonal jobs in the fishing industry in northwest British Columbia. She showed that Indigenous women live precarious lives as a result of multiple systemic barriers, including barriers to finding more secure jobs and accessing Employment Insurance and Income Assistance."

Doctor of Philosophy (Statistics)

• Dr. Yanling Cai: "The safety of wood structures relies on the strength of the lumber products used in the construction. Dr. Cai developed statistical models for the relationships between lumber strength properties. Her methods enable strength prediction, and can be used to reduce monitoring costs for the lumber industry, while ensuring product quality."
• Dr. Tianji Shi: "Air quality models help scientists to study how air pollution depends on weather and harmful emissions. Dr. Shi explored novel statistical approaches to evaluating air quality models. The application of these methods revealed fresh insights, linking the predictions from the model performance to specific weather and emission conditions."

Doctor of Philosophy (Teaching English as a Second Language)

• Dr. Joel Heng Hartse: "Dr. Heng Hartse studied the reactions of English teachers to language useage they perceived as incorrect in student essays. He found that their perceptions of correctness, and their explanations for the evaluations they made, were highly subjective. This work has implications for anyone who works with second language writers and their texts."
• Dr. Yanning Dong: "Dr. Dong developed a new approach to teach and evaluate critical thinking in second language writing. Her research provides pragmatic supports for those who wish to cultivate their students to become, not only proficient language users for effective communication, but also independent critical thinkers for their life-long learning."

Doctor of Philosophy (Theatre)

• Dr. Parie Pui Yee Leung: "Dr. Leung studied how East Asian artists in Canada and Britain started theatre companies to create opportunities for Asian Canadian and British East Asian cultural expression. Comparing Toronto's fu-GEN theatre and London's Yellow Earth, she juxtaposes two ethno-national sites not often paired together, revealing remarkable, shared vocabularies."
• Dr. Selena Marie Couture: "Grounded at the Coast Salish village of Xway' Xw@y' in Stanley Park, Dr. Couture's research demonstrates how theatrical, cultural and tourist performances are used for cultural continuation and historiography. Ways of thinking embedded in the h@n'q'@m'in@m language and place names gave access to Indigenous histories obscured by the colonial archive."

Doctor of Philosophy (Zoology)

• Dr. Dalal Al-Abdulrazzak: "Marine ecosystems have been altered over millennia, but ecological data are typically only reported every ten years. Dr. Al-Abdulrazzak developed methods to integrate diverse data types, such as anecdotal evidence and satellite imagery. She used these methods to quantify changes in the distribution and abundance of marine species in the Persian Gulf."
• Dr. Tiphaine Jeanniard Du Dot: "Dr. Jeanniard-du-Dot investigated the biology and ecology of fur seals in the Arctic and in Antarctica. She showed that the foraging strategy and efficiency of females affect their survival and reproduction success. Her study helps us understand how environmental changes impact the health of polar animals and their population for conservation purposes."
• Dr. Kira Elizabeth Delmore: "Songbirds exhibit an extraordinary amount of diversity. Dr. Delmore showed how differences in seasonal migration could contribute to the generation of this diversity. Using state of the art genetic sequencing techniques she also provided novel insight into the genetic basis of songbird diversity and seasonal migration."
• Dr. Austen Clouse Thomas: "How many salmon do harbour seals eat? This simple question is difficult to answer. Dr. Thomas developed a diet analysis method involving high-throughput DNA sequencing, to better understand the ecological role of harbour seals. He found that seals target salmon species of concern in the juvenile life stage, and eat adults of abundant salmon species."
• Dr. Matthew Donald Taves: "Dr. Taves studied stress hormones which are normally produced by the adrenal glands. These hormones are generally thought to suppress the immune function, but it turns out that the immune systems of birds and mammals also produce those hormones. The hormones may be critical in development of a competent and appropriately responsive immune system."
• Dr. James Randolph Slogan: "Dr. Slogan examined engineered fish habitat in Vancouver harbour, while developing a tool for managers. Results show how infrastructure affects light and current patterns thereby altering seaweed and invertebrate presence, while the effectiveness of microhabitats varies with tidal height. These findings will improve future design and feasibility."
• Dr. Paolo Segre: "A hummingbird's ability to maneuver is critical for avoiding predation, catching prey, and defending territory. Dr. Segre studied the underlying aerodynamic and physiological mechanisms that determine hummingbird maneuverability. His research demonstrated that wing shape and muscle power capacity is correlated with improved maneuvering performance."