Stella Lin

Biological Sciences | master's degree | Faculty of Science

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

I am a graduate student in the Biological Sciences department, where I study cold-adapted microorganisms and their potential to provide sanitation solutions in Arctic environments. My work sits at the intersection of wet-lab experimentation and bioinformatics, a combination that allows me to explore microbial life from both a hands-on and computational perspective. This dual approach is especially rewarding, as it allows me to cultivate and take care of my organisms at the bench, while simultaneously giving me a bird's-eye view of my microbes, where I can examine their patterns and relationships within their community. This allows me to truly understand the organisms that I work with. These microscopic communities live, interact, and function in ways that directly shape the world around us. This shapes my research goals, which is to understand these organisms better to translate their capabilities into real solutions for the communities that need them most.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

Growing up in the lower mainland, I always knew that I wanted to study surrounded by the mountains and the ocean. SFU's talented research groups, as well as its close proximity to home made me feel safe to explore the microbial world and conduct cool research.

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

In the north, cold temperatures can freeze the roads, lakes, and the towns. This makes it hard for systems to continuing working as required, which is particularly important for sanitation. My work helps with creating sanitation systems that can continue working, even after freezing.

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

Microbial ecology, bioinformatics, public health.

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

My courses and TA-ships have shaped my mindset on education, and how important it is to continue fostering curiosity in research. They have taught me to tell my research and my science as a story, and to present it with whimsy and wonder. This has made me a better and more open-minded communicator, enabling me to grow into a more thoughtful yet intentional researcher. These experiences helped me build my confidence to approach the Three-Minute Thesis competition, where rather than simply presenting my research, I was able to share the narrative that I'm building.

Contact: sla378@sfu.ca

Additional Links

• LinkedIn