After completing his Master’s Degree at SFU, Dr. David Green returned as a tenured SFU faculty member in 2003. Over his 17 years of outstanding teaching and advising, Green has guided numerous graduate students through successful degree programs and on to rewarding careers.

Green’s students recognize his enthusiasm and innovation in teaching graduate courses by stimulating creative and critical thinking, while also developing individual research, presentation, and practical skills for his students’ success.

“He promotes scholarship by taking part in the reading groups, both the formal Centre for Wildlife Ecology and casual Green Lab meetings, and frequently develops directed reading courses for his graduate students so they can come together and share ideas,” says Isabelle Côté, Professor & Chair, Department of Biological Sciences.

Green is also known for his outstanding and genuine care for his students’ future and graduate school, as well as their wellbeing—especially in the face of COVID-19.

“Like many new graduate students, I would often suffer from feelings of inadequacy, or I felt unsure of the direction of my research. But I knew I could be completely honest with Dr. Green, who immediately provided encouragement and guidance that kept my research on track,” says Alice Domalik, MSc candidate.

“David has risen to the occasion by doubling-down on prompt communication, ensuring he is available for Zoom meetings, and encouraging all his students to look after their mental health. His response to these difficult times has been everything a student could want from a supervisor,” shares Gwyn Case, MSc Candidate.

On average, Green’s students graduate in less time than others in the department, publish 1-3 papers per degree—which is very rare—and swiftly obtain coveted jobs in their field.

“His rapid turn-around time allowed me to complete my degree within 4 ½ years with three of my papers completed and accepted for publication within the same year as my degree completion,” shares Anna Valdez Drake, a former PhD student and Postdoctoral Researcher at Environment and Climate Change Canada.

Not only does Green care for his students’ academic and personal lives, but he also goes the extra mile to assist in and providing exceptional funding opportunities for his students, ensuring they can focus on achieving their research goals.