Join the lab

SUPERVISION INFORMATION

A few things to know about the lab:

Projects: who decides?

Students are strongly encouraged to choose a research topic that is of genuine interest to them.

Sources of funding

Students with very good credentials are expected to apply for an NSERC scholarship (applications due in October - check website for eligibility) or a Dean's scholarship (applications due in December and February for the two annual competitions).

Scholarships and fellowships at the Departmental level are available every year, with competitions usually taking place in March. Students need to have an 85% average on their last 60 cu to be competitive and need to maintain an 80% average to keep their funding. Support is available for 2(+0.5) yrs for M.Sc. students, 3(+0.5) yrs for Ph.D. students and 4(+0.5) yrs for Ph.D. 'transfers' (M.Sc. + Ph.D. combined).

What you can hope to gain by joining my lab

My goal is to give my students a useful set of skills to continue on with a scientific career, if they so desire. There are 3 skills that are necessary in today's scientific world, regardless of one's field of study.

Critical thinking skills: Unfortunately, I think this training is lacking from many undergraduate curricula. Engaging lab mates, weekly lab meetings and various discussion groups and seminars, and grad courses will help grad students developing their critical thinking skills.

Scientific method and quantitative skills: Scientists should be able to formulate a question, a series of hypotheses and predictions pertinent to their question; they should be able to design and carry out an experiment with proper controls, and should be able to analyze the data they collect. My students should acquire these skills through designing and conducting their own research projects and through discussion and exercises during lab meetings.

Communication skills: Being able to communicate clearly both in writing and orally is crucial. How good is it that you found those AWESOME results but no one around you has a clue of what you're talking about? Being able to switch gears between communicating with scientists and members of the public also requires some training. Those skills will be improved through a formal grad level training (courses requiring scientific writing, and oral presentations), through presentation during lab meetings, or seminars at conferences. Written skills should be improved through the writing of papers and a thesis.

What I expect from each of my students

- To be a good team player, and help lab mates when required

- To be present in the office to facilitate discussions and interactions with other members

- To attend the lab meetings and seminars given by lab mates

- To ensure their research is on track and following a reasonable timeline

- To be responsible for all paperwork, animal care protocols, and other academic deadlines (registration, progress reports, etc)

- To write and submit peer-reviewed manuscripts - and not wait until the end of the degree to do so

- To come to me early if there is any problem with research or other academic matter

For further information regarding grad studies

Other information related to grad studies (tuitions, formal application process, etc.) are available on the College of Graduate Studies and Research website. Please contact me prior to submitting a formal application to the College of Grad Studies.