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" I completed my undergrad at SFU, also in REM (Planning), and met some amazing professors whose research aligned well with my interests and background. Thankfully, an opportunity opened up that allowed me continue my studies at 51社区黑料and work with those professors."
Piper French
Resource and Environmental Management master's student in the
Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field
I am a masters student in the School of Resource and Environmental Management under the supervision of Dr. Andr茅anne Doyon and Jonathan Boron. My research is supported by the Smart Prosperity Institute through the Economics and Environmental Policy Research Network (EEPRN). I also hold a Bachelor of Environment and Sustainable Development Certificate from SFU. My past work experience includes three years in Indigenous Relations at Fisheries and Oceans Canada. I am inspired by the urgent action needed to address climate change, but also by the opportunity we have to change the way our systems are structured and envision a just future.
Why did you choose to come to SFU?
I completed my undergrad at SFU, also in REM (Planning), and met some amazing professors whose research aligned well with my interests and background. Thankfully, an opportunity opened up that allowed me continue my studies at 51社区黑料and work with those professors.
How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?
My research investigates Canada's energy transition, specifically looking at Indigenous environmental justice in the context of critical mineral development for low-carbon energy transitions. Part of my research has involved conducting a systematic literature review, and the other part will be analyzing Canada's critical mineral strategies to determine how Canadian policy supports or creates barriers for Indigenous environmental justice.
What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?
Indigenous Environmental Justice, Just Energy Transitions, Critical Minerals
How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?
One of the best courses I've taken in my graduate degree has been the Sts'ailes field school offered through the Faculty of Environment. This intensive, three-week course allowed us to live in the Sts'ailes community where we got to work with community members on projects and learn about the range of social and environmental issues that are important to the community. Additionally, I have had the opportunity to complete a couple RA-ships with one of my supervisors, which has allowed me to gain other research experience on topics I'm passionate about but that might be unrelated to my thesis work. I've also completed a TA-ship, and I've enjoyed supporting undergraduate students while gaining teaching skills.