Microbiology & Immunology @ UBC

    Deeg, Christoph
  
      Program
                  Doctor of Philosophy        
 
      Research Supervisor(s)
                  Curtis Suttle        
 
      Home Town
                  Bamberg, Germany        

      Research Topic
                  Environmental Microbiology / Virology        

      Research Description
                  My thesis focuses on exploring giant viruses infecting protists. These viruses are more complex than many cellular life forms and are highly abundant in aquatic environment. This makes them interesting from an evolutionary and ecological standpoint.         

      What do you hope to accomplish with your research?
                  My research aims to broaden the scope of what we consider microbial life, as giant viruses show higher complexity than many cellular life forms. Genome evolution of these viruses is of great interest to me. Further, my research aims to explore the role that giant viruses play in aquatic ecosystems.        

      Why did you decide to study at UBC?
                  UBC offers a strong network in microbial ecology and evolution (spread over several departments) in combination with great recreational opportunities.        

      What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
                  I did an internship/exchange program at UBC in the Microbiology and Immunology department during my master's degree, so I had some idea what I was getting into.        
 
      Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree? 
                  Research for a graduate degree gives me the freedom to pursue projects that I am interested in and otherwise would not have been able to work on.        

      What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
                  When I am not working, I am out enjoying the great outdoors of British Columbia. Luckily, my project also includes some field work, so I occasionally do get to go out in the name of science.