The Zimmerman-Weis scholarship in field biology has been an important source of funding during my PhD and my time working at KSR. 

By living close to my field site, I could afford to spend casual time observing the ecosystem in which I work, observations out of which sprouted many of the questions central to my PhD thesis (not to mention the accommodations were much more comfortable than camping for winter fieldwork!). 

The Koffler Scientific Reserve provided an outdoor laboratory in which I was able to conduct in-situ field experiments with realistic environmental conditions, the results of which I could then tease apart using more controlled but less realistic conditions in the indoor KSR lab or at my lab in Mississauga, allowing me to construct a well-rounded scientific program.  

Finally, the community of researchers and the friends I have made through living and working there has been extremely supportive throughout my progress in graduate school. From commiserating over long days sampling in the sun and ruined experiments (racoons are sometimes too curious), to helping move equipment, dips in the pond, and celebrating each-other’s successes, KSR has fostered friendships and memories that will last me through and beyond my career as a scientist.”