Meet Edward, PhD Plant Agriculture Student
About Edward Flaherty
Edward grew up in Guelph and has always loved the city. After researching options for graduate studies, he decided to return to pursue a master of science in plant agriculture due to the programs reputation. Edward enjoys spending time in the outdoors participating in activities such as mountain biking, golfing, skiing, and hiking. When he's not working in lab, you might find him at the Arboretum, one of his favourite spots on campus!
Program: PhD Plant Agriculture
Hometown: Guelph, ON
What did you study for your undergraduate degree?
For my undergraduate degree I studied biology at the University of Ottawa, before coming to the University of Guelph for my M.Sc. in Plant Agriculture.
Why did you decide to pursue graduate studies at the University of Guelph? Did your undergrad experience shape your decision to further your studies?
I grew up in Guelph, and have always loved the city. Throughout my undergraduate degree, I discovered my passion for plant science. After researching graduate programs at different universities, I decided to pursue graduate studies at the University of Guelph due to its highly regarded plant agriculture programs.
What is your research focus?
I am working with Dr. Barry Shelp and my research focus is on abiotic stress metabolism in plants, specifically looking at enzyme regulation by phosphorylation in response to salt stress.
How have you found ways to get involved as a grad student?
I’ve always enjoyed sports and competition, so I played intramural volleyball with friends from my department. Additionally, attending trivia nights at the Grad Lounge and Brass Taps is a great way to socialize and meet new people.
How has your graduate program experience been different from your undergrad experience?
My graduate program experience has been different from my undergraduate experience because you are given much more freedom and responsibility in graduate school. You really need to develop your time management and organizational skills.
Where are your favourite spots in Guelph?
My favourite spots in Guelph are the Arboretum, I enjoyed taking my dog there for walks, and downtown Guelph. McCabe’s and The Wooly are great spots to grab food and drinks with friends.
What do you find most challenging about your program?
The most challenging aspect of my program is balancing time between working in the lab, writing and taking time for yourself. The most rewarding part of my research is seeing positive results in an experiment after putting in long hours in the lab.
What are some free-time activities that make you happy, or relieves stress?
I really enjoy the outdoors. In the summer I like to mountain bike and golf. In the winter I like to hike and ski. Enjoying these activities with friends and family are my favourite ways to relax.
What are your plans or goals after graduation?
After graduation I plan on pursuing a post-doctoral position, and eventually a position as a professor.
What advice would you give to an undergrad student considering graduate school?
I would advise undergraduate students interested in graduate school to reach out to current graduate students and get their perspective on what graduate school is like. I had so many questions as I was applying for grad school, and luckily, I received great advice.
What or who is your greatest inspiration? Why?
My greatest inspiration is the idea that your highest potential is always out there. You can always learn more, experience more and be more. It motivates me to always strive to become the best version of myself I can be.
What's one fun fact about yourself?
A fun fact about myself is that I had the opportunity to tour Guatemala and volunteer at an orphanage there. It was an amazing and eye-opening experience.