Zoe Long

I have a deep respect and reverence for the natural world. As a kid growing up in North Vancouver, I became passionate about plants, animals, and playing outside. I received a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Sustainability from Dalhousie University and began working in endangered species management. I observed that the reasons for species loss could often be traced back to climate change, so I refocused my efforts towards climate change policy research. After completing my Master’s studying sustainable transportation at SFU, I am grateful to return as a PhD candidate with the Sustainable Transportation Action Research Team, in the School of Resource and Environmental Management (REM). Outside of work and research, I stay busy climbing, mountain biking, and ski touring in the mountains around Squamish.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO COME TO SFU?

I came to SFU’s REM program to pursue my Master’s because it is so widely respected and recognized as one of Canada’s top environment-oriented graduate programs. I stayed here as a researcher and now as a PhD student because it is offers exceptional opportunities to conduct applied research and forge connections between academia, industry, and decision makers.

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

I’m interested in understanding how policy can shape a future transportation system that is low-carbon, affordable, and is accessible for all travelers. My research aims to understand how new technologies can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transport sector over time. I explore how Canadians might use new transport technologies, like electric and self-driving vehicles, and how policy can ensure that these technologies are compatible with climate change goals. My goal is to produce evidence-based policy recommendations for decision makers.

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

At SFU, I feel like my research is valued and meaningful. I love the team-oriented and supportive environment of the REM program, where students are encouraged to think big and apply their research to real world problems. The faculty and students are a diverse community of like-minded people drawn together by the common goal of generating environmental solutions. We all have something to learn from and teach one another.

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.

I am privileged to be a recipient of a Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship and a Graduate Fellowship. These awards have given me security and confidence to pursue my doctorate studies full-time, which allows me to focus on producing high quality research. In the past, my research has been supported by the Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions (PICS) and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC).

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

The REM program is ideal for students who want to learn practical skills and knowledge related to resource management and environmental issues. Students produce applied, policy-relevant research using a variety of interdisciplinary methods and tools. The program is well recognized for producing graduates ready to work in diverse sectors. I highly recommend the REM program for graduate students.

Contact Zoe: zoe_long@sfu.ca