As we take a few more chilly steps toward winter and the end of term, we continue to check in with our graduate students about their research. Two of our newest environmental chemists have generously told us about their goals, their journeys, and the research questions that brought them to U of T. Here’s what they had to share.
Owen Vander Meulen
Owen recently completed a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biochemistry at Redeemer University in his hometown, Hamilton, ON. While there, he worked under Drs. Darren Brouwer and Edward Berkelaar on various projects. Owen is now a PhD student in Prof. Andre Simpson’s research group at UTSC, where he is working on developing comprehensive multiphase NMR for environmental applications.
Area of Study: Environmental Chemistry
Campus: UTSC
Research Group: Andre Simpson Research Group
What branch of chemistry do you specialize in, and how did you come to choose it?
I specialize in environmental chemistry under Andre Simpson. I got my first taste of environmental chemistry while doing water monitoring analyses for potential sewage contamination as an undergraduate researcher. Since then, I have come to love the interdisciplinary nature of environmental chemistry as it spans from pure analytical chemistry to toxicology, to biology and impacts on human health.
What are you looking forward to most as you began your graduate studies here at U of T?
I am looking forward to working at the cutting edge of knowledge and technology. Already in the few months that I’ve been here, I’ve gotten a taste of techniques and tools that few in the world have been able to use.
Were there any surprises when you began?
I have consistently been amazed by both the depth and breadth of research that is going on in this department. So many people are doing fascinating research that it’s hard to keep track of it all!
Camille Tsang
Camille completed her undergraduate degree in Integrated Science with a Concentration in Chemistry at McMaster University. For her undergraduate thesis, she worked with Dr. Joseph Okeme on improving quantitative exposure assessment with active air samplers. Now her research focuses on developing low-cost strategies to monitor ammonia concentrations in poultry farms.
Area of Study: Environmental Chemistry
Campus: St. George
Research Group: Murphy Research Group
What branch of chemistry do you specialize in, and how did you come to choose it?
I specialize in environmental chemistry and I’m studying with Professor Jen Murphy. I’ve always been really passionate about the environment and thought it was so cool that I could combine this passion with my interest in chemistry. My fourth year thesis also played a huge part in my decision to choose this path.
What did you look forward to most as you began your graduate studies here at U of T?
I was really looking forward to joining the U of T community and being on campus. Having grown up in Toronto, I’ve always wanted to come to U of T and I’m happy to have this opportunity!
What would you tell incoming students about the U of T Chemistry Community?
The U of T Chemistry community is really welcoming! Everyone has been so helpful with the transition to graduate studies and I’d like to shout out the Environmental Chemistry community for being especially friendly!