Normand Richard

Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology doctoral student in the Faculty of Science

I am a mature PhD student, having worked 10 years in industry before returning to research. Over this time course I created a physiology consulting firm (Richard Physiological Services) working in research trials, with private corporations, professional sport, and emergency services.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO COME TO SFU?

I chose SFU for three reasons. First was the faculty and staff in the department; I already knew several of them and had several positives experiences interacting with them in the past. Second was the focus on physiology research with real life applicability. Lastly, it’s close to home!

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR RESEARCH OR YOUR PROGRAM TO A FAMILY MEMBER?

Everyone has a heart and blood vessels, and half of our population is female. Despite this we know considerably less about the female cardiovascular system and what happens to it with exercise. My research looks at the female cardiovascular system during different types of exercise scenarios (especially exercise in heat).

WHAT ARE YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOYING ABOUT YOUR STUDIES/RESEARCH AT SFU?

There are so many resources available to help you succeed and exceptional collaborations. In addition, the faculty are genuinely interested in your wellbeing and success. For example, both my primary supervisor Dr. Anita Cote, and secondary supervisor Dr. Victoria Claydon are respective experts in their fields and have provided me fantastic guidance and considerable opportunities to think critically.

HAVE YOU BEEN THE RECIPIENT OF ANY MAJOR OR DONOR-FUNDED AWARDS? IF SO, PLEASE TELL US WHICH ONES AND A LITTLE ABOUT HOW THE AWARDS HAVE IMPACTED YOUR STUDIES AND/OR RESEARCH.

I’ve received a Vanier CGS award, the Dean's Graduate Fellowship and BC Graduate Scholarship. They have helped me focus on my studies during my first year.

Contact Normand Richard: normand_richard@sfu.ca