AƬ×ÊÔ´°É

Molecular Biology and Biochemistry master's student in the Faculty of Science

Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field

I'm a graduate student specializing in bioinformatics here in the Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Department, with a focus on wastewater-based surveillance (WBS). My work integrates wastewater pathogen surveillance data with large-scale sociological and environmental datasets to better understand public health trends across Canadian communities. I've always been inspired by the idea that data can tell stories that aren't immediately visible –stories that can improve lives, especially in underserved or overlooked populations. What keeps me motivated is the potential of WBS to act as an early warning system for infectious disease outbreaks and to provide real-time, equitable insights into population health. I'm especially passionate about riding the gap between raw data and real-world impact, and I'm energized by working in field at the intersection of data science, sociology, environmental science, and public health.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

Having already been raised in the Lower Mainland, I built a strong academic foundation during my undergraduate studies in MBB. I chose to continue building my career at SFU as a graduate student because of the incredible research groups across SFU, especially in the Faculty of Science. SFU's location was also a major factor –Vancouver's proximity to nature, cultural diversity, and the focus on sustainability create an ideal environment for both living and learning. Being able to pursue impactful research while staying connected to a city and campus that felt like home made me confident that SFU was the right place for me.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

I study how we can use wastewater – like what goes down the toilet or drain – to track viruses such as COVID-19 and the flu in the community. Even before going to the doctor, traces of viruses show up in wastewater, and we can use it as an early warning about what's happening with public health. I also look at how different neighbourhood factors – like how crowded an area is, how easy it is to access healthcare, or how close people live to busy roads – might affect when outbreaks start or how severe they get. It's a way to connect biology, data, and every day life to help keep communities healthier.

What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?

Wastewater, Public health, Data science

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

I have a personal passion for teaching –I've TA-ed eight courses before starting my graduate studies, and have taught two more as a graduate student. These experiences have helped me develop strong communication and mentorship skills, and they've reinforced my desire to eventually pursue a teaching role in the future. Beyond just course content, being a TA has shaped how I present myself professionally and how I support others in their learning. I've also seen how valuable it is to be involved in things outside your own research –whether it's teaching, mentoring, or even student initiative. These roles aren't obviously mandatory, but I strongly encourage other graduate students to seek them out. They help you grow in ways that your research alone cannot.

What are some tips for balancing your academic and personal life?

The major tip that I learned through experience is to ensure you are happy throughout the process. Taking the time for your hobbies and the things that make you feel like you can help you come back to your work with a clearer mind and better focus. Everyone's balance looks a little different, but the key is figuring out what refuels you and treating that as part of your routine, not something optional.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Happy to connect with you! Shoot me an email or connect with me over on LinkedIn.

Contact Nima:nghanete@sfu.ca

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