Christopher Paul
Graduate Research Assistant
chris.paul@ubc.ca
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My name is Christopher Paul, I am of Indigenous and Irish descent. Growing up, I lived all over the interior of BC but have resided in Kelowna for the last 10 years. I got my Bachelor of Applied Science in Mechanical Engineering in the Spring of 2022 and started my Master of Applied Science just this Fall. I am co-supervised by Dr. Michael Benoit and Dr. Lisa Tobber. Together we are exploring the how Indigenous Knowledge can influence values and beliefs of the Engineering research and industry field. Particularly Material Science, Manufacturing Engineering, and Structural Engineering. The other research I am involved in surrounds additive manufacturing and metallurgy under the supervision of Dr. Benoit. When I am not studying or doing research, I like to play sports, spend time with my friends, or just be outside! I am a very passionate about the Indigenous community here on UBCO’s campus and living in a sustainable way.
Research Interests
- Indigenous structural engineering
Current Research Project
- Indigenous structural engineering
Research Experience
Research Assistant, Laboratory for Solar Energy and Fuels, Dr. Alexander Uhl, The University of British Columbia, Kelowna BC, (2020 – 2021)
- Conducted two short studies: (1) the influence of metallic grid masks on the fill factor of thin film solar cells, and (2) the present and the historical context of the
photovoltaics (PV) industry in British Columbia/Canada - Created and designed unique lab equipment to aid in research activities
- Contributed to a safe and respectful work environment
- Verified the validity of PVsyst, photovoltaic modeling software, by replicating results from an academic paper
- Presented the findings of my verification process in a report
Awards & Achievements
- Indigenous Graduate Fellowship, College of Graduate Studies, The University of British Columbia, (Since Sep 2022)
- Undergraduate Student Research Award (USRA), Natural Science and Engineering Research Council of Canada, (May – Aug 2021)
- Deputy Vice-Chancellor Scholarship for Continuing Students, The University of British Columbia, (Sep 9, 2020)
- Indigenous Research Mentorship (IRM) Program, Indigenous Programs and Services, The University of British Columbia, (Jan – Apr 2020)
Teaching Experience
The University of British Columbia, Kelowna BC, (Sep 2020 – Apr 2022)
Peer Tutor, Indigenous Programs and Services
- Provide learning support to students, especially in the Applied Science program
- Contribute to a safe and respectful learning and work environment
Presentations
- Grid Deposition Results, Process Results Presentation, Laboratory for Solar Energy and Fuels, Lab Meeting, Kelowna BC, (Aug 9, 2021)
Service to community
- Indigenous Student Panel Member, Indigenous Programs and Services, Grade 12 Day Event, The University of British Columbia, Kelowna BC (Nov 2019)
