The Faculty & Trainee Spotlight Series shines a light on the incredible people who make up the heart of UBC Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology & Therapeutics. Amidst the remarkable achievements and developments within the department, it is a pleasure to share the stories of the dynamic trainees and faculty who bring passion, curiosity, and insight that drive the areas of anesthesiology, pharmacology, and therapeutics forward.
Meet Jaycee Farmer!
Role: Graduate Student, PhD Candidate
Site: International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD)
Jaycee Farmer completed her undergraduate degree at Queen’s University in Health Sciences, specializing in Pharmacology and Toxicology, while also completing credits equivalent to a Bachelor’s in Mathematics and Statistics. This unique combination of health and quantitative training inspired her to pursue an MSc in Pharmacology at UBC, where she applied her analytical skills to tackle clinical research questions. That experience ultimately sparked her interest in academia, leading her to continue her studies with a PhD in Pharmacology, which she has been pursuing since May 2024.
“When I’m not reading papers or analyzing data, I like to spend time in nature and the mountains hiking, camping, biking, and running.”
— Jaycee Farmer, PhD Candidate, UBC
Responses have been edited for flow, clarity, and style.
What inspired you to pursue anesthesiology, pharmacology, or therapeutics?
I was inspired to pursue anesthesiology/pharmacology research primarily because of my family’s experience with a rare, inheritable disease called malignant hyperthermia (MH). MH can cause a life-threatening reaction to volatile anesthetics, and in some cases (including my family’s), heat and exercise. It’s often regarded in the literature as a “well-managed” condition, but that wasn’t our reality. I started wondering whether other families felt the same – and whether there are other conditions we assume are well-managed when further research could actually improve day-to-day life.
How did your path lead you to UBC?
During my time at Queen’s, I made many friends that were originally from Vancouver and was lucky enough to visit them. During these visits, I was in awe of the landscapes and beautiful scenery, and made it a goal of mine to live here one day for graduate school at UBC. I was so excited after visiting, I actually started my UBC MSc application a year before I was technically eligible to apply!
What’s a fun fact about you that most people wouldn’t guess?
I play guitar, piano, and sing!
What do you enjoy doing outside of the hospital or lab?
When I’m not reading papers or analyzing data, I like to spend time in nature and the mountains hiking, camping, biking, and running. I also love playing beach and indoor volleyball, and hanging out with my golden retriever, Sawyer.