Collaborate as much as you can while you're in graduate school. Reach out to other students, other groups, and share ideas. You never know what may arise from those interactions, but they are always worthwhile.

There is a lot to be celebrated for you today: convocation for one, and you have also been awarded both the Silver Medal of Merit and the Governor General's Gold Medal. What does this academic recognition mean to you?
It is an honour to be recognised for my studies at the U of L and inspiring to know those I worked with thought well of me during that time. I hope I can do them, and the University, proud as I transition into the next phase of my research career.

Why did you choose to pursue graduate studies?
I worked as a undergraduate in the Gerken lab and he couldn't get rid of me. In seriousness, I had fun projects that blossomed over time into graduate research projects that I wanted to pursue.

What do you hope your research will accomplish?
My research was focused on the stabilisation and study of highly reactive, fluorine-containing tungsten complexes with interesting molecular structures. We hope to understand factors that affect structure and bonding in coordination complexes, as well as develop strong acids and oxidants to discover new reactivity.

Is there someone who had an important influence on your academic journey?
I would be remiss not to recognise my supervisor, Prof. Michael Gerken, for the impact he had on me. He is a very patient and compassionate supervisor and taught me so much, not just about chemistry, but also mentoring others and expressing myself confidently when showcasing the work that I do.

Tell us about your most memorable experience while at the University of Lethbridge.
Travelling to Florida for the Winter Fluorine Conference in 2017 was surreal. It was my first research conference outside of Lethbridge, and I got to meet so many people whose work I admire, bond with lab mates, and catch up with old acquaintances in the next step of their journey as fluorine chemists.

Any advice for those about to begin their graduate student journey?
Collaborate as much as you can while you're in graduate school. Reach out to other students, other groups, and share ideas. You never know what may arise from those interactions, but they are always worthwhile.

Congratulations again, Doug. What’s next for you?
I am currently a postdoc working in a green chemistry lab at McGill University, with Prof. Marc-André Légaré. We'll see where the wind takes me after that...

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