Emma Starke

Resource and Environmental Management master's student in the Faculty of Environment

I am a 2nd year master's student working as part of the Energy and Material Research Group. I am deeply interested in exploring policy and technology opportunities for Canada to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. While not studying, I spend my time running, backpacking, and snowboarding.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO COME TO SFU?

I chose SFU because of its esteemed reputation as a community-involved institution, and because of the incredible work done by academics within the Resource and Environmental Management program. I viewed SFU as a doorway to so many of my fields of interest, and finding a place within the EMRG lab only confirmed that it was the right decision for me.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR RESEARCH OR YOUR PROGRAM TO A FAMILY MEMBER?

The work of the EMRG lab is centered around changing our energy system (transportation, industry, buildings) to become more sustainable, particularly in terms of greenhouse gas emissions reductions. My research focusses on national policy pathways to reach net zero emissions in Canada by 2050.

WHAT ARE YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOYING ABOUT YOUR STUDIES/RESEARCH AT SFU?

Throughout the entirety of my time at SFU I have felt supported both academically and socially. This has been extraordinarily important given recent events and has helped to keep me focused and passionate about my research. I look forward to meeting more like-minded individuals through the SFU community.

HAVE YOU BEEN THE RECIPIENT OF ANY MAJOR OR DONOR-FUNDED AWARDS? IF SO, PLEASE TELL US WHICH ONES AND A LITTLE ABOUT HOW THE AWARDS HAVE IMPACTED YOUR STUDIES AND/OR RESEARCH.

During my undergraduate degree I was fortunate to be awarded the O. Temple Sloan, Jr. Founder’s Scholarship, which provided partial funding of my tuition throughout my four years of study. This award enabled me to truly focus on my program by alleviating financial stress while studying. More importantly, it contributed to my low student debt upon completion of my undergraduate degree, and is part of the reason why I felt able to immediately pursue further education.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PROGRAM/POSTDOC POSITION TO SOMEONE STILL SEARCHING FOR A PROGRAM OR POSTDOC POSITION?

The REM program is where you want to be if you're interested in any or all of the many facets of sustainability and the environment. Every lab and supervisor is pursuing critical, cutting-edge research, and by joining the program you can help grow an amazing knowledge base.

Contact : emma_starke@sfu.ca