Eric Price (biochemistry) never thought a passion for exercise would eventually lead him to a career in chemistry. Originally interested in becoming a personal trainer, Eric came to UVic to study how the human body functions. So when he took a few biochemistry classes, he was surprised to discover an intense interest in science.

"It really filled a void and it's something I'm completely interested in," says Eric, who completed four work terms through the Biochemistry Co-op program and was recently accepted into a doctoral program at UBC.

Eric believes that participating in co-op, particularly his last two terms at TRIUMF (an international research facility at UBC) helped secure his acceptance into his doctoral program. While working at TRIUMF, Eric assisted with the development of radiopharmaceuticals used for diagnosing patients with illnesses like cancer and Parkinson's Disease. He was able to network with grad students and professors who have now become his colleagues and supervisors.

"I liked Eric so much that I have become one of his a co-supervisors for his PhD studies," says Mike Adam, the senior research scientist at TRIUMF. "I'm excited about the work that he'll produce."

According to Eric, the most rewarding aspect of his work terms at TRIUMF was the impact he was having in patients' lives. The chemical compounds he created have been instrumental in diagnosing and treating patients.

"It's really nice to know that the work you're doing has a direct impact on someone's life, that there's a tangible and positive end product," said Eric. "I look forward to continuing in this field in my professional career."

Eric credits co-operative education as a particularly useful program for chemistry students, as most laboratories want to hire graduates with work experience. "It makes you so much more employable," he says. "The things you learn on the job are absolutely invaluable," he said.

Learn more about our co-op program or visit the Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology.