Brendan Murphy’s research focuses on the effects of environmental variability and disturbances in watersheds, notably developing pre-fire risk assessment models to evaluate the impact of wildfires on water resources and guide land management policies. He is motivated by the intersection of fundamental scientific questions and public relevance, often uncovering critical knowledge gaps across disciplines. Murphy has conducted memorable fieldwork globally, noting experiences like collecting water samples in Yellowstone. He emphasizes the everyday relevance of geology, linking it to natural resources and hazards in British Columbia. For students interested in environmental science, he advises exploring various subdisciplines and seeking hands-on opportunities to find their niche.