Program
Doctor of Philosophy in Civil Engineering
Research Supervisors
Dr. Rehan Sadiq and Dr. Kasun Hewage
Hometown
Vitoria, Espirito Santo, Brazil
Awards
Peter Wall Legacy Award
What inspires you about your research?
My research focuses on developing an assessment methodology for the sustainability of Urban Water Systems (UWS). Building on the development of urban environments, my work aims to identify and select key indicators, while also exploring the mathematical feedback loops between these indicators. The goal is to provide stakeholders with tools to support sustainable practices. During my PhD, I proposed an integrated approach combining Circular Economy principles with the One Water Approach to create six pillars of sustainability, specifically tailored to the management of drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater. My model goes beyond traditional system analysis by considering the integration of UWS with nature and surrounding communities.
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I decided to pursue a PhD to become a professor and researcher in the future. I made this decision while I was in my bachelor’s program, and I knew going abroad for my PhD would be an outstanding experience for my career.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
UBC offered me a great opportunity to connect with world-leading scientists and to develop the research I was passionate about. I was also pushed to reach beyond my initial ideas and to develop novel research that will impact not only my career, but the discussions regarding the sustainability of Urban Water Systems.
What is it that attracted you to your program?
The opportunity to learn new sustainability paradigms and to work with professors that were at the same time experts in my previous fields of expertise and that could offer me a range of different topics that I was not yet familiar with. Working at UBC provided a great challenge, and outstanding opportunities for my career.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in the Okanagan?
How friendly and welcoming the campus was, the number of opportunities to connect with other researchers, as well as training opportunities that have furthered my comprehension regarding research, EDI, and teaching.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
I enjoy the challenging yet supportive environment of my lab. In my lab, I am able to conduct novel research with high expectations from my advisors; however, they have always been supportive and available to guide and help me to succeed.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
I graduated from a demanding engineering and master’s degree before I came to UBCO, and I also had the opportunity to study in Canada in high school through a scholarship program. These opportunities prepared me to develop research, as my former professors helped me publish and gave me freedom to create my independent research path. Furthermore, I conducted research for six years before joining UBC, which allowed me to have a rich understanding of multiple water-related topics.
Outside of your academic work, what are the ways that you engage with your local or global community? Are there projects in particular that you are proud of?
I am very proud of the consulting work I have conducted with the City of Vancouver. I had the pleasure of working with them twice through the UBC Sustainability Hub. I evaluated CO2 emissions of underground parking spaces in the first project, which led to the removal of parking minimums. In the second project, I created a tool to evaluate the number of necessary drinking water fountains in the city, a project that has the potential to increase water access and equity.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
I would highly recommend that they try their best to live this opportunity to the fullest by connecting with other students and professors, volunteering for a few positions, and creating their community at UBC.
Specifically, to international students, make use of UBC resources, as they can assist you with VISA applications, mental health, as well as the adaptation process in a new country.
What do you do for fun or relaxation?
I enjoy playing the violin and singing opera. I also enjoy working out, and doing ballet.