Katherine Boere
Tell us about yourself and what you are currently working on at UVic.
I am a third-year Ph.D. student in the Neuroscience Program within the EPHE department. I do a wide range of research, but my main focus is looking at the effects of physiological depletion on cognitive function. For example, I look at things like the effect of ultra-running on the ability to make good decisions. Within that realm, I am really interested in if certain types of cognition, like attention versus decision-making, are prioritized when you enter a depleted state.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I lived in Lithuania for about a year to work on my master's.
How did you get involved with UVic WIS?
It's an initiative I have always been involved with. I've gone to different universities for my different degrees, but something I have always been quite passionate about is supporting minorities in research and science. At UVic, I have been a mentor in the Peer Mentorship Program for the last couple of years and have recently moved into the role of Director of the Peer Mentorship Program.
What are your future career goals?
I would like to continue into academia when I finish my Ph.D. and potentially one day run my own lab.
What type of research are you currently working on?
Our lab does a lot of different research. Although cognition and depletion are topics I focus on, I am also involved in many other projects, including topics like cognitive load, learning and exercise science. Overall, my lab looks at learning and decision-making in humans, which covers a wide range of topics, and I am lucky enough to be a part of many different projects.
Some people find out they are interested in science at a young age, while some find out much later. Tell us what this experience was like for you.
From a very young age, I was very curious. My Mom tells me that as a young child, I used to go around our yard and collect slugs in a box. I would then sit there and observe their behaviour for hours at a time. I feel like that curiosity hasn't really changed.
What is your favorite non-stem hobby/activity?
I love to run, climb and be in the mountains!
What is one piece of advice you have for people looking to get into your field?
Reach out! It is incredible how many opportunities there are, if you ask. We are excited to bring people into the lab who are curious and eager to learn, even if they have no previous experience. Put yourself out there, and you will be rewarded.
What is your favorite way to relieve stress and recharge after a hard day?
Either a run or walk with my dog. Sometimes, going to the sauna if it’s been a particularly hard day - where I have no access to technology!
What media are you currently consuming? TV shows, books, movies, podcasts?
My favorite current podcast is a sports science podcast called Some Work, All Play by David and Megan Roche. They mostly discuss recent sports science related to athletic performance and endurance.
Who is someone who inspires you?
All of my research assistants!
What do you find most challenging about your work/ degree?
Work-life balance, if there is such a thing!
What do you feel you have gained by being a part of UVic WIS?
A community is the most valuable thing I have gained. Being able to connect with like-minded folks who all have the same values and want to work towards a common goal is amazing.
