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"I chose to go to SFU because I knew it has a good reputation. I also have family members and friends that have attended and enjoyed their time here. It's also important for me to be in Vancouver to spend time with my loved ones, so coming to SFU was an easy decision."
Franklin Tam
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry doctoral student in the Faculty of Science
I am a PhD student born and raised here in the Lower Mainland. Asides from my time working in the lab, I also like to play badminton and video games.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO COME TO SFU?
I chose to go to SFU because I knew it has a good reputation. I also have family members and friends that have attended and enjoyed their time here. It's also important for me to be in Vancouver to spend time with my loved ones, so coming to SFU was an easy decision.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR RESEARCH OR YOUR PROGRAM TO A FAMILY MEMBER?
I am studying a protein called inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). In response to inflammation, our bodies produce iNOS which in turn produces a gas called nitric oxide (NO). NO plays an important role in regulating many physiological processes in our bodies, but when there is too much of it due to the dysregulation of iNOS (such as in different disease settings), it can damage our own cells. My research seeks to study the mechanisms in our body that control iNOS production and function. Through this, we will further our basic knowledge of iNOS, which will contribute to tackling it in disease settings.
WHAT ARE YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOYING ABOUT YOUR STUDIES/RESEARCH AT SFU?
I truly enjoy working in the lab. Planning my own experiments, executing them, and collecting data is something I consider fun. It's surprising, because during my undergraduate studies I never would have thought I'd feel this way! I've also had the wonderful opportunity to meet new people, many of which I consider close friends now.
HAVE YOU BEEN THE RECIPIENT OF ANY MAJOR OR DONOR-FUNDED AWARDS? IF SO, PLEASE TELL US WHICH ONES AND A LITTLE ABOUT HOW THE AWARDS HAVE IMPACTED YOUR STUDIES AND/OR RESEARCH.
I was the recipient of the CIHR Canada Graduate Scholarship-Masters (CGS-M) award, which helped fund my research from Fall 2020-Summer 2021. This was a huge positive impact for my research, as the extra funding makes it much easier to plan and execute experiments.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PROGRAM/POSTDOC POSITION TO SOMEONE STILL SEARCHING FOR A PROGRAM OR POSTDOC POSITION?
The graduate program that I am in at the department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry is wonderful. The professors and staff here are very supportive. Every lab has their own culture and is different, but there are plenty of events and opportunities to make connections and build friendships with others. I've greatly enjoyed the experience so far, where I am always independently working and planning my week, but with the knowledge that I will always be supported when I need it.
Contact : fftam@sfu.ca