Dr. Kirk Bergstrom

Professor

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Biography

Kirk Bergstrom is a Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of British Columbia, Okanagan campus. His research focuses on host-microbiota interactions and glycobiology, specifically how mucin-type O-glycosylation regulates interactions between the host and its microbiome. His interests lie in understanding the mechanisms of innate immunity in the gastrointestinal tract that promote protective responses against pathogens while preventing inflammatory responses to resident microbiota. Bergstrom's work employs specialized skills to investigate the intestinal mucus system, a network of glycoproteins secreted by goblet cells, which plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of the gut and preventing diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease and colon cancer. He aims to enhance understanding of mucins and their O-glycans to develop novel intervention methods for patients suffering from these conditions.

Research Interests

Experience

Assistant Professor

2010-01-01 — Present

University of British Columbia • Kelowna, BC

Teaching and researching in the field of biology with a focus on microbiota and glycerol metabolism.

Awards

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The Bhagirath Singh Early Career Award in Infection and Immunity

Courses

BIOL420 Functional Glycoscience BIOL314 Medical Microbiology

Requirements for University of British Columbia

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6.5
Reading
Required:6.5
Writing
Required:6.5
Speaking
Required:6.5
Overall
Required:7
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:21
Total
Required:100
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Philosophy or related field 3 credits in formal logic 6 credits at the upper level in history of philosophy 3 credits at the upper level in ethics or value theory 6 credits at the upper level in metaphysics, epistemology, or philosophy of science
Application Checklist
  • Online application form
  • Application fee
  • Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Writing sample (15-20 pages)
  • Statement of intent
  • Evidence of English language proficiency
Specialization Notes

Offers course-only and thesis routes. Focus areas include philosophy of science, mind, ethics, and Asian philosophy.