After earning her PhD in Psychological Science from UBC Okanagan, Dr. Gizem Keskin began a postdoctoral fellowship exploring emotional development and family dynamics. Supported by a 2025 SSHRC Doctoral Fellowship, her work focuses on understanding how individual and family factors shape emotional outcomes. Her experience at UBCO provided a strong foundation in research, collaboration, and community engagement, and she now aspires to a tenure-track academic position where she can lead her own lab and support emerging scholars.
Tell us in detail about your journey since graduating from UBC Okanagan.
After earning my doctoral degree in Psychological Science from UBC Okanagan under the supervision of Dr. Jessica Lougheed, I began my postdoctoral position in the Department of Psychology at the University of Calgary, supervised by Drs. Sheri Madigan (University of Calgary) and Andre Plamondon (Laval University). During my postdoctoral fellowship, I primarily work with the All Our Families dataset to investigate individual, parental, and familial factors influencing emotional development pathways. I am also one of the proud recipients of the 2025 Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council Postdoctoral Fellowship.
What type of career are you considering? What are your future goals?
I aspire to pursue an academic career and secure a research-focused tenure-track position in Canada. My objective is to establish my own lab to study family dynamics and emotional processes across the lifespan, as well as to mentor students to help them thrive and develop into future colleagues in academia.
Why did you choose to study at UBC Okanagan?
I chose UBCO for my doctoral training for the opportunity to study under the supervision of Dr. Jessica Lougheed, within a supportive and forward-thinking work environment.
What program were you enrolled in and what specifically attracted you to it?
I enrolled in the Psychological Sciences PhD program. The primary reason for choosing this specific program was the strong alignment between my research interests and those of my prospective mentor. Additionally, the university’s prestigious reputation, offering rigorous training opportunities, and the collaborative environment within the department were important factors that influenced my decision.
What opportunities did the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences provide you with?
The Psychological Sciences PhD program is structured to support students in excelling throughout their academic pursuits. The degree requirements are designed to foster collaboration with researchers both within and outside the university, provide teaching experience, and encourage stepping outside of one’s comfort zone to expand horizons. I had the opportunity to collaborate with different faculty within the department to be a part of meaningful change in health policies in BC. Additionally, I received several travel awards at the faculty and university levels, which served as encouragement for pursuing international collaborations in my field. Lastly, thanks to the department’s motivation and enthusiasm, I also had opportunities to work with community partners to strengthen the connection between the university and the wider community.
Did any specific classes or faculty members in particular help to shape your academic journey?
I have been truly fortunate to receive support from a wonderful group of faculty members. My supervisor, Dr. Jessica Lougheed, significantly contributed to the development of my researcher identity by encouraging me to flourish in my own unique way. The members of my dissertation community, Drs. Leanne ten Brinke and Jamie Piercy, provided invaluable guidance that helped me make significant progress on my dissertation. Additionally, Drs. Elena Nicoladis and Leanne ten Brinke have served as inspiring examples of leadership within academia. Lastly, I am grateful for the guidance and advocacy of Dr. Leslie Lutes, who taught me the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone and engaging in interdisciplinary collaborations to foster meaningful change in society.
How did your experience at UBCO change you?
My experience at UBCO not only clarified my career objectives but also enhanced my confidence in my abilities to achieve them.
If you had to convince another student to go to UBCO, what would you say?
UBCO is an academic institution offering rigorous training, located on a scenic campus nestled among mountains.
What advice would you give your younger self about the university experience in general?
I would encourage my younger self to prioritize growth and learning over perfection, as a doctoral degree involves not only mastering methods and knowledge but also fostering curiosity and inquiry.