Miranda Dennis

Biological Sciences doctoral student in the Faculty of Science

Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field

I am marine biologist working with some of the most charismatic sea creatures, the nudibranchs. I completed my Masters at SFU in the Fall of 2023 and am now pursuing doctoral research in the Biological Sciences department. I am quite passionate about my study organisms and love to teach people about invertebrate zoology.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

Growing up in Alberta, I did not spend much time near marine environments. When I came to Vancouver for the first time, I fell in love with the landscape, the city, and the ocean. I knew I wanted to come to SFU and be part of this community.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

I am broadly interested in understanding how species come to exist. I use closely related nudibranch species which are genetically different but morphologically similar to understand how species differences accumulate over time. My project covers a variety of topics including community science, population demography, reproductive biology, and climate change.

What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?

Speciation, Population demography, Nudibranch

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

The courses that I've taken and taught at SFU have greatly developed my skills as a scientist. I frequently TA an invertebrate zoology course that allows me to become a better communicator and connect with undergraduate students. In my department, I have also been the chair of the Graduate Student Caucus for the past 2 years. This experience brings me closer to other graduate students and department members who are integral to my success in my program.

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

Yes, I am lucky to have been the recipient of the BC Graduate Scholarship and the NSERC PGS-D award. The funds from these awards have given me the opportunity to focus on my research and create a project I am proud of.

What have been the most valuable lessons you've learned along your graduate student journey (or in becoming a graduate student)?

In grad school, I believe you need to find a balance between finding your own independence as a researcher and being able to ask people for help when you need it. You need to be able to produce a project that is truly your own that you are proud of, but you can't do that alone.

How do you approach networking and building connections in and outside of your academic community?

I believe creating connections is one of the most important things you can do in academia. It is integral to your growth as a scientist. I try to make networking/connecting with people one of my top priorities by attending seminars, reading groups, and conferences but also in a social setting to get to know my peers.

What are some tips for balancing your academic and personal life?

I like to try to treat my research as a 9-5 job. This doesn't always work, especially during busy semesters, but I generally try not to work on weekends if I can help it. Giving myself well deserved mental health breaks when I need it is also key. Not every day can be the most productive day so I give myself grace and try again the next day.

Contact Miranda:miranda_dennis@sfu.ca

Additional Links

• LinkedIn