Information Box Group
Mary Armour
Ph.D. Candidate (Part-Time)
Supervisor: Dr. Joe Boyce
The Charity Shoal structure (CSS) is a 1.4 km diameter, 20 m deep circular basin located northeastern Lake Ontario. The CSS has been interpreted as an Ordovician-age meteorite impact based on multi-beam imaging of the lakebed but details of the crater?s subsurface structure were unknown. In 2011 detailed magnetic and sub-bottom chirp seismic (>400 line km) surveys were conducted across a 9-km2 area of Charity Shoal to investigate its subsurface structure. In 2014, a boomer seismic (1-2 kHz) survey was conducted over the same area to image the basin fill.Total magnetic intensity (TMI) data reveal a large (>1400 nT) magnetic anomaly centered over the crater basin and a ring-like magnetic high (40-50 nT) corresponding with the basin rim. Depth to basement below the structure was estimated at ~600 m using extended Euler deconvolution. Forward 2-D models verify that the observed TMI anomaly requires a deep (>450 m) depression in Precambrian basement or a source body (e.g. diatreme) with a remanent magnetization opposing the main field. Boomer seismic profiles revealed >60 m of stratified glacial/post-glacial sediments overlying Paleozoic limestone bedrock. Apparent offsets in the bedrock surface may indicate the presence of high-angle faults. Magnetic and seismic results are not consistent with formation of the CSS as a shallow glacial erosional or karst feature or an early postglacial (Younger Dryas) impact event as proposed in previous work. Modelling and geophysical results are most consistent with an origin as a diatreme or pre-Paleozoic meteorite impact in the Precambrian basement.
Daniel Arriaga
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Lesley Warren
Reseach Interests: Fe-S-C Biogeochemistry cycle, Astrobiology, Microbial biosignatures as an application to the study of life on Earth and form the basis of the search for extraterrestrial life, The interplay of microbial activity inland and deep-sea hydrothermal vents
nnThesis Summary:nn
Assessing the microbial linkages to Fe-S cycling and how the biotic and abiotic causes of changes of Fine Fluid Tailing (FFT) products over time; looking into the underlying biotic or abiotic determinants of Sediment Oxygen Demand, and to contrast the processes by which redox gradients develop in biotic and abiotic FFT material.
Eric Beamesderfer
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Altaf Arain
A large portion of forests in eastern Canada and US are plantation or managed forests of different ages that absorb atmospheric CO2. Enhancing carbon sequestration by increasing forested land area is one of the most cost-effective options to mitigate elevated atmospheric CO2 levels. The McMaster Hydrometeorology and Climatology group has initiated a long-term research program to investigate how different managed forests will respond to future climate change and extreme weather events. Currently, the seasonal and annual climate variability is being evaluated using 13 years (2003-2015) of eddy covariance fluxes and meteorological and biometric data obtained in Turkey Point, Ontario.
Kelly Biagi
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Sean Carey
I am originally from Kingston, Ontario in Canada and I have an educational background in fresh and salt water environmental chemistry. I am currently studying a thesis-based Master’s in Science in Environmental Science at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario. I received my Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science with an emphasis in Chemistry with Co-op and Honours at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
I have finished my honours thesis project which involved collecting and analyzing various aspects of water chemistry data such as pH, aluminum, calcium, conductivity as well as precipitation and stage height from the catchment liming experiment on the Maria Brook watershed in New Russell, Nova Scotia. It was one of the first projects in North America to use the addition of crushed limestone to an acidified watershed in attempt to neutralize the soils and surface waters and increase the pH. My Master’s thesis project involves examining the hydrochemistry and stable isotopes within a reclamation wetland on the oil sands in Fort McMurray, Alberta to determine the flow pathways of water within the wetland and if the flow pathways are acting similar to a wetland in a natural environment.
Heather Bonn
M.Sc. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Sean Carey
After the completion of my undergraduate thesis, which studied the influence of surface mining on the hydrometric response of an alpine basin, my MSc research continues here at McMaster. I am interested in studying the process of infiltration into frozen soils in an alpine environment and will be conducting research in Kananaskis, Alberta.
Keri Cameron
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Vera Chouinard
Geographies of disability and illness, Geographies of health and health care, Experiences of oppression, empowerment, advocacy, and resistance, Lived experience of total hip replacement and resurfacing, Medical tourism
Olivier Champagne
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Altaf Arain
Part of FloodNet Project, the objective of my work is to study hydrological processes at watershed scale using a Coupled Ground-Water and Surface-Water Flow Model. Then to determine how these processes may be influenced by climate change and extreme weather events. Regional climate model forced by global warming scenarios will be helpful to answer that question with a focus on atmospheric circulation patterns.
Huyen Dam
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Bruce Newbold
Research Background: Improving mental health outcomes for immigrants, refugees, ethnocultural and radicalized (IRER) groups has been an ambitious and challenging goal for the Mental Health Strategy of Canada (McKenzie et al., 2010). Barriers to accessing care are a form of social exclusion (McKeary & Newbold, 2010). At present, there are no policies that specifically address mental health for multi-cultural populations at the provincial or federal level. As noted by the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC), the need for improving services stems from three specific trends: (1) IRER groups exist in every province and territory across Canada; (2) IRER communities continue to grow every year due to Canada’s policy on immigration; and (3) within IRER groups, diversity intersects with socio-environmental factors to increase the complexity of need that makes services difficult to access (CAMH, 2009).
Recommendations from MCHH point to the need for developing networks of consumers, family members and community representatives to eliminate structural inequalities though social inclusion in community planning. Networks can serve as a bridge for knowledge exchange about needs and available resources, in addition to providing knowledge about barriers that exist. The inclusion of multi-cultural groups in planning is, therefore, strategic and equitable. Not only is knowledge exchange needed for providers to be better informed about their diverse populations, knowledge exchange will also enable multi-cultural groups to become stakeholders in the decision making process (see CAMH, 2009; p. 6).
Objectives: The purpose of this study is to contextualize a local experience of improving equity of care for multi-cultural communities in Hamilton. More specifically, this research explores the ways in which cultural groups and service organizations in the City of Hamilton have come together in a collaborative effort to plan and to take an innovative approach to mental health education. At the start of 2012, concerns about mental health were raised from various cultural communities that led to the development of a health strategy that resulted in the creation of The Mental Health Connectors Program, which trained ten cultural and linguistic brokers [CLBs] in mental health awareness and education. At the same time, frontline and management staffs from four major Mainstream Health Service Providers [MHSPs] underwent diversity assessment and training. This study aims to: Explore the roles of CLBs in knowledge exchange between their cultural community and the MHSPs; Examine the MHSPs’ capacity to diversify mental health promotion strategies though the process of engaging multi-cultural groups; and Explore the ways in which equity and inclusion in mental health strategy, planning, and promotion affected multi-cultural communities in Hamilton.
Anastassios Dardas
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Allison Williams
My research will explore the impacts of health determinants, such as sex/gender, access to health services, and socio-economic status, and transportation patterns of caregiver employees. The goal of this study is to increase our understanding of the experiences of caregiver employees, who provide care to elderly with complicated chronic conditions while employed in the labor force. Therefore, the primary objective of this research project is to convey valuable information to caregivers in terms of how they can improve work-life balance, via a temporal and spatial analysis of health determinants, and in so doing maintain their health. Methods that will be used for this project are qualitative, quantitative (GIS), and theoretical concepts.
Daniel Del Bianco
Ph.D. Candidate (Part-Time)
Supervisor: Dr. Antonio Paez
School boards throughout Ontario are continually pressured by the provincial government to become more effective and efficient. One of the ways in which school boards can become more effective and efficient is through the closure of schools and the elimination of surplus pupil spaces. The argument often used by the local community in objection to school closures is that the school is more than just an educational institution; it acts as a community hub which helps define or enhance a sense of community. My research will focus on understanding how people define sense of community, the role that schools and other public and private infrastructure play in defining a community, and what other characteristics enhance or hinder a person?s sense of community in the City of Hamilton.
Elnaz Haj Abotalebi
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Darren Scott
My PhD thesis is focused on estimation of consumer demand for Electric vehicles in Canada and identification of the population segments that are most likely to consider an electric car as their next vehicle purchase.
Stine Hansen
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Rob Wilton
My research explores the prevalence and perception of vision impairment and disability among immigrants in Canada using a mixed methods approach. Using Statistics Canada’s Participation and Activity Limitation Survey (PALS) 2006 dataset, I use descriptive statistics to evaluate the prevalence of vision impairment and sources of care. Second, perception of vision impairment and disability is examined using semi-structured interviews with vision impaired immigrant clients from the Canadian Institute for the Blind (CNIB) in Southern Ontario.
The goal is to explore if vision impairment is more or less prevalent in immigrants compared to Canadians and whether their perception of vision impairment and disability influences their access and utilization of healthcare.
Waad Khogali Ali
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Suzanne Mills
- Economic Geography
- Precarious Employment
- Employment Related Geographic Mobility (E-RGM)
- Geostatistics and Geographic Information Systems(GIS)
Kathleen Kinsella
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Bruce Newbold
The challenges of “wicked” policy problems facing cities, such as persistent concentrated poverty and segregation, have led many jurisdictions to adopt place-based policy as a response. Place-based policy seeks to deliver extra or specialized resources and services to disadvantaged areas, often with the participation of local organizations and citizens. There has been some success with such approaches, but status-quo policy approaches do little to alter the forces that create socio-spatial inequalities in the first place. Similarly, relatively little of the research on place-based policies has examined what kinds of supplementary policies may be needed to alter the inequitable spatial allocation of resources in the first place. In my dissertation research, I will examine the applicability of inclusionary housing tools as an additional element to complement the place-based policy approach that the City of Hamilton has undertaken and how these policies can be adapted to be relevant across the Canadian context.
David Kynaston
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Janok Bhattacharya
Reconstruction of a cretaceous paleo-valley to determine the nature and internal organization of a petroleum reservoir analogue. 3-D reconstruction of this tributary valley is interpolated from 32 measured sections and photomosaics. Hydrological analysis of the sandy units will be used to predict flow properties within this deposit located in the Upper Blue Hills area south of Factory Butte near Hankville, UT.
Rebecca Lee
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Carolyn Eyles
The focus of this research is on the active drumlin field at Mulajokull, a surge type glacier in central Iceland. Field study of the area and aerial imagery will be used to analyze the sedimentological and morphological characteristics of the drumlins within the field. This will be complied into a spatial database where various parameters will be examined for patterns in distribution and how these may relate to ice dynamics. The results of this research will provide new information on the conditions associated with the formation of drumlins to aid in the understanding of their genesis. Furthermore, a detailed description of the modern drumlin field allows for use as an analogue for ancient drumlin fields, such as those found within Canada.
Wen Lin
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Janok Bhattacharya
My PhD research work will be devoted to examining the sequence stratigraphy and facies architecture of the Cretaceous Gallup Sandstone in the San Juan Basin, New Mexico. The research will focus on the following aspects:
- High-resolution Sequence stratigraphy, shoreline trajectory, and implications for Cretaceous sea-level changes.
- Facies architecture of asymmetrical storm and wave- influenced deltas.
- Non-marine sequence stratigraphy of the Gallup and Crevasse Canyon formations, New Mexico.
- Forced regressions and link between the marine and non-marine expression.
- Analysis of the origin of thin-beds in pro-delta shale.
- Paleohydraulics and sediment budget in Source to Sink Systems
Stephanie Marshall
M.Sc. Candidate (Part-Time)
Supervisor: Dr. Lesley Warren
Research Interests:
- Sulphur Biogeochemistry
- Improving environmental practices in the mining industry
- Microbial interactions in freshwater systems
Shawn Mckenzie
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Altaf Arain
Carbon isotopes, climate dynamics and carbon cycling in temperate forests
Abstract:
I am investigating carbon isotope labels in conifer and deciduous temperate forests in southern Ontario. I am linking these labels to historical extreme weather events and regional climate dynamics using meteorological flux data collected at our field sites. My work includes tree-ring analyses of tree bores and discus, carbon isotope extraction and analysis of whole wood, comparisons to meteorological flux data and historical records, and modelling/predicting future trends in regional climate using carbon isotope labels.
Chelsi McNeill-Jewer
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Ed Reinhardt
In the future it will be imperative for local and global governments to make sustainable water resource allocations based on sound scientific inquiry. Knowledge of how coastal groundwater and surface water have been impacted by parameters such as changing sea level, anomalous precipitation events (i.e, droughts, hurricanes), and expanded agriculture will be crucial pieces of information in order to make these important adaptive decisions.
My studies focus on paleoclimate and paleohydrological reconstruction of coastlines using stable isotope geochemistry and microfossils. I am interested in the response of how global hydrology will interact with our changing climate, and in turn how this may impact human life in both the long and short term. In addition to my work with Dr. Reinhardt in the School of Earth, Environment & Society, I will be working with Dr. Nidhi Nagabhatla and the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health through the Water Without Borders program. This is a collaborative degree program that will address the interdisciplinary and cross-boundary issue of global water sustainability using a hands-on policy and rights based approach.
I am also dedicated to the continual improvement of science education, specifically focusing on climate and water centered issues mixed with rights-based environmental sustainability. As a scientist and a student I have learned that no matter how much I personally know, I can never make a difference in this world unless I am able to effectively disseminate my knowledge. I therefore feel committed to improve the efficiency of science education and communication using sound pedagogy and scientific study.
Riley Mulligan
Ph.D. Candidate (Part-Time)
Supervisor: Dr. Carolyn Eyles
Sedimentological analysis of glaciated basins, paleoenvironmental reconstruction, Quaternary Geology, Glacial processes and dynamics, Glacial processes and dynamics
Wasan Nagib
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Rob Wilton
My research interest lies in the broad area of environment and health. I am particularly interested in developing therapeutic built environments for autistic children. The significance of this research stems from the fact that Autism is by far the most rapidly advancing childhood disorder in North America. There is an urgent need to rethink the way we design our everyday places and buildings, not only to accommodate the direct and functional needs of autistics but, more importantly, to contribute to their wellbeing.
Using the therapeutic landscape theory (Williams 2007), which explores the healing effects of the environment and the importance of place to physical and mental well-being, my research aims at providing answers to the following questions:
- Using Therapeutic Landscape Approach, what are the physical elements that affect the quality of life of autistic children in their home environment?
- How can these elements be designed (or modified) to create an autism-friendly home environment?
The research will achieve a series of objectives including:
- Understanding the common characteristics of autistics affecting their interaction with the built environment.
- Understanding the common challenges of autistics and their families in their home environment and the physical elements contributing to these challenges.
- Identifying the common home modifications adapted by families to face these challenges.
- Exploring in detail the life experience of families and their quality of life before and after modifications
Rodrigo Narro Perez
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Carolyn Eyles
One of South America’s most challenging issues is the rapid and evident retreat of the Andean tropical glaciers that serve as a freshwater supply for many communities. The Peruvian communities in the Santa River Valley on the Western slope of the Cordillera Blanca that lie in the province of Ancash (north of Lima) rely heavily on glacier meltwater for freshwater. My proposed research project aims to better understand the impact retreating glaciers will have on local communities in the Ancash province that rely on meltwater as a freshwater source. It is important to understand the impact that water has on a community’s health, in particular those in developing nations. I am also interested in seeing the social impacts that this rapid deglaciation has had from a social perspective. Water management and water risk, both in water quantity and quality, are of importance in fragile communities such as this.
This is research is meant to further the research mission of the United Nations University – Institute for Water, the Environment and Health which include “three inter-connected and closely linked challenges: ensuring water-health security for everyone on the planet; utilizing the potential for cooperation for water security in shared water resources; and ensuring ample water resources for producing, processing and securing food supply for rising population” (UNU-INWEH, 2015).
Mario Reyes-Gafan
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Antonio Paez
Accessibility, Built Environments and Travel Behaviour, Active Transportation (Walking and Cycling) and Physical Activity, Spatial Statistics and Econometrics
Thesis Summary: Abstract:
Parks are key components of urban environments. In addition to their intrinsic environmental value, parks serve a number of valuable social functions. In particular, urban parks help promote physical activity and thus help reduce the risk of obesity and other adverse health outcomes. In order to enjoy the beneficial opportunities for activities in parks, users must have reasonable access to these resources. Previous research has explored the question of inequality in accessibility to parks, as this may be a limiting factor in terms of usage, and a source of disparities in health outcomes. A starting point for inquiries about park utilization and the potential benefits of urban green spaces must begin with an assessment of their geographical accessibility. Of particular interest, in terms of potential users of parks, are children. The geographical range of children is limited by their ability to traverse space using non-motorized or public modes of transportation, and by their dependence on adults for other forms of motorized mobility. The objective of this research is to measure accessibility to urban parks from the perspective of children traveling by non-motorized modes. The research aim is to evaluate the relationship between the distribution of children population and the conditions of accessibility to urban parks, in order to understand the potential for use and possible spatial disparities in the distribution of valuable environmental resources. The case study is the City of Montreal, and the implementation of accessibility is supported by a geographically detailed analysis of the travel behaviour of children.
Sandeep Sharma
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Janok Bhattacharya
My current research project is focused on regional sequence stratigraphy and facies architecture analysis of the Gallup Sandstone. The stratigraphic framework currently available for the Gallup Sandstone focusses pre-dominantly on lithofacies without any sequence stratigraphic implications. I plan to use isochronous Bentonite beds as datum to provide control on age to aid high-resolution regional correlation. The vertical facies stacking trends obtained from meticulous study of outcrops will be linked with shoreline trajectory analysis to identify and map the depositional systems and systems tracts. These steps will help in producing a stratigraphic framework of the Gallup Sandstone in true sequence stratigraphic sense. Carrying out facies and architecture element analysis to distinguish tributive, trunk and distributive systems and establishing the relative influence of wave, river and tidal processes on the shallow marine deposits of the Gallup Sandstone will also be another major focus of the research. The outcome of the facies analysis will be further used in paleo-hydraulic estimates of the rivers and source-to-sink mass balance studies and tracking of dynamic boundaries like bayline and backwater.
Nadine Shatilla
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Sean Carey
Nadine has started her PhD and will be working in Yukon helping further our understanding of hydrological processes in cold environments.
Victor Tang
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Sean Carey
Victor’s MSc work invovles automating hydrograph and rainfall-runoff analysis. He also is working to integrate GIS into hydrograph analysis.
Majed Turkistani
PhD Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Eduard Reinhardt
Majed is a micropaleontologist studying paleoenvironment conditions of the Upper Cretaceous Ferron-Notom Delta, Utah, USA. He is implementing foraminifera and thecamoebians as proxies to investigate the marine influences, transition zones and paleoenvironmental physiochemical of the Ferron-Notom delta. His project is in conjunction with a sequence stratigraphic study conducted on the Ferron Sandstone member to characterize and construct complete deltaic facies and architecture models by Dr. Janok Bhattacharya and his team. The extant understanding of the Ferron “Notom Delta” sequence stratigraphy and its facies associations is well documented and understood. However, this is limited to physical criteria including sedimentology, and lithostratigraphy, but as many as ancient systems are lacking physiochemical criteria, such as salinity, temperature, organic content, oxygen concentrations as well as sea-level fluctuations. In Holocene / Quaternary environments, the integration of both approaches (physical and physiochemical) are attainable; therefore, paleoenvironment reconstructions are possible.
On the other hand, ancient systems (e.g., Ferron Sandstone) can be investigated from physical criteria, but it is difficult to subdivide or classify these systems because they have undergone modification by post-depositional diagenetic processes (taphonomic processes), which lead to missing one or more of the physiochemical criteria (Scott et al., 2001). In order to address these knowledge gaps Majed’s study will implement foraminifera and thecamoebians as proxies to investigate Ferron-Notom Delta. This approach will combine sequence stratigraphy with detailed micropaleontological data of mud sediments to refine the understanding of the fluvial-deltaic sedimentary facies with regard physiochemical criteria and use it to identify the Ferron-Notom Delta sub-environments and lay down the foundation for future studies. Both assemblages will help us to determine the paleoenvironmental parameters mentioned above by comparing this study’s species with modern analogs. Taking into consideration the preservation status and other taphonomic processes that may have a direct or indirect impact on the identification of these species to species level so that the morphogroups analysis will be considered. Recent studies showed that it is possible to define sequence systems tract from foraminiferal biofacies general trends; therefore, this can be applied to produce models interpreting the various systems tract of the Ferron ‚ÄúNotom Delta.‚Äù
Khafi Weekes
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Gail Krantzberg
I am interested in using the comparative policy development approach to respond to challenges related to sustainable groundwater access in the Great Lakes Basin. Drawing from the transboundary European Water Framework policy, and expected trends in fluxes in and out of the Basin driven by anthropogenic demand and climate change, I am hoping to propose a revised, harmonised, transboundary policy between the USA and Canada that will ensure sustained availability of groundwater for all users.
Kate Whalen
Ph.D. Candidate (Part-Time)
Supervisor: Dr. Antonio Paez
Research Interests: Experiential learning and reflection; Sustainability education, Interdisciplinary education, Human-environment interactions; Assessment in higher education
Kate Whalen is a PhD candidate in the School of Geography & Earth Sciences at McMaster University. Recent interests include exploring the extensive history of geography education in providing a platform to foster human and environment interactions and experiential learning. Kate is currently working to understand the role of experience in the learning process with a focus on reflection as a tool for teaching and learning. Kate holds a Master of Arts from McMaster University. Kate previously developed and managed McMaster’s Office of Sustainability before spearheading the development and management of McMaster’s Academic Sustainability Programs Office starting in 2014.
The role of experience in the learning process can be easily understood by reflecting on some common real-life examples, such as a situation where one has learned something new through experimentation, stumbled upon a great idea through taking part in a new activity or felt the consequences of a big mistake. A review of the literature shows a long history of research into the role of experience in the learning process, which has been conducted by researchers including John Dewey (Dewy’s Model of Learning), Kaurt Lewin (The Lewinian Model of Action Research and Laboratory Training), and David Kolb (Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theoryto name a few. The body of knowledge on this topic extends to include a plethora of related information on topics such as student learning styles, planned behavior, surface versus deep learning as well as tools and techniques for educators including community-based learning, problem based learning and reflective writing. While there is much agreement that experience plays a role in learning, we are interested in learning what other components of the experiential learning process contribute to deep and life-long learning.
Sophie Wilkinson
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Mike Waddington
My research for the Ecohydrology lab is based around peatland hydrology and its effects on resilience and recovery after disturbance by wildfire. Fieldwork, primarily in the Utikuma Region Study Area in the Western Boreal Plain, will develop our understanding of the natural systems, pre and post disturbance. I have specific interests in the role of margin areas and feedbacks in the peatland ecosystems. This knowledge will be used to inform an existing peatland hydrology model and used to test thresholds of ecosystem collapse with respect to disturbance.
Greg Zilberbrant
Ph.D. Candidate (Part-Time)
Supervisor: Dr. Gail Krantzberg
Mary Armour
Ph.D. Candidate (Part-Time)
Supervisor: Dr. Joe Boyce
The Charity Shoal structure (CSS) is a 1.4 km diameter, 20 m deep circular basin located northeastern Lake Ontario. The CSS has been interpreted as an Ordovician-age meteorite impact based on multi-beam imaging of the lakebed but details of the crater?s subsurface structure were unknown. In 2011 detailed magnetic and sub-bottom chirp seismic (>400 line km) surveys were conducted across a 9-km2 area of Charity Shoal to investigate its subsurface structure. In 2014, a boomer seismic (1-2 kHz) survey was conducted over the same area to image the basin fill.Total magnetic intensity (TMI) data reveal a large (>1400 nT) magnetic anomaly centered over the crater basin and a ring-like magnetic high (40-50 nT) corresponding with the basin rim. Depth to basement below the structure was estimated at ~600 m using extended Euler deconvolution. Forward 2-D models verify that the observed TMI anomaly requires a deep (>450 m) depression in Precambrian basement or a source body (e.g. diatreme) with a remanent magnetization opposing the main field. Boomer seismic profiles revealed >60 m of stratified glacial/post-glacial sediments overlying Paleozoic limestone bedrock. Apparent offsets in the bedrock surface may indicate the presence of high-angle faults. Magnetic and seismic results are not consistent with formation of the CSS as a shallow glacial erosional or karst feature or an early postglacial (Younger Dryas) impact event as proposed in previous work. Modelling and geophysical results are most consistent with an origin as a diatreme or pre-Paleozoic meteorite impact in the Precambrian basement.
Mary Armour
Ph.D. Candidate (Part-Time)
Supervisor: Dr. Joe Boyce
The Charity Shoal structure (CSS) is a 1.4 km diameter, 20 m deep circular basin located northeastern Lake Ontario. The CSS has been interpreted as an Ordovician-age meteorite impact based on multi-beam imaging of the lakebed but details of the crater?s subsurface structure were unknown. In 2011 detailed magnetic and sub-bottom chirp seismic (>400 line km) surveys were conducted across a 9-km2 area of Charity Shoal to investigate its subsurface structure. In 2014, a boomer seismic (1-2 kHz) survey was conducted over the same area to image the basin fill.Total magnetic intensity (TMI) data reveal a large (>1400 nT) magnetic anomaly centered over the crater basin and a ring-like magnetic high (40-50 nT) corresponding with the basin rim. Depth to basement below the structure was estimated at ~600 m using extended Euler deconvolution. Forward 2-D models verify that the observed TMI anomaly requires a deep (>450 m) depression in Precambrian basement or a source body (e.g. diatreme) with a remanent magnetization opposing the main field. Boomer seismic profiles revealed >60 m of stratified glacial/post-glacial sediments overlying Paleozoic limestone bedrock. Apparent offsets in the bedrock surface may indicate the presence of high-angle faults. Magnetic and seismic results are not consistent with formation of the CSS as a shallow glacial erosional or karst feature or an early postglacial (Younger Dryas) impact event as proposed in previous work. Modelling and geophysical results are most consistent with an origin as a diatreme or pre-Paleozoic meteorite impact in the Precambrian basement.
Daniel Arriaga
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Lesley Warren
Reseach Interests: Fe-S-C Biogeochemistry cycle, Astrobiology, Microbial biosignatures as an application to the study of life on Earth and form the basis of the search for extraterrestrial life, The interplay of microbial activity inland and deep-sea hydrothermal vents
nnThesis Summary:nn
Assessing the microbial linkages to Fe-S cycling and how the biotic and abiotic causes of changes of Fine Fluid Tailing (FFT) products over time; looking into the underlying biotic or abiotic determinants of Sediment Oxygen Demand, and to contrast the processes by which redox gradients develop in biotic and abiotic FFT material.
Daniel Arriaga
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Lesley Warren
Reseach Interests: Fe-S-C Biogeochemistry cycle, Astrobiology, Microbial biosignatures as an application to the study of life on Earth and form the basis of the search for extraterrestrial life, The interplay of microbial activity inland and deep-sea hydrothermal vents
nnThesis Summary:nn
Assessing the microbial linkages to Fe-S cycling and how the biotic and abiotic causes of changes of Fine Fluid Tailing (FFT) products over time; looking into the underlying biotic or abiotic determinants of Sediment Oxygen Demand, and to contrast the processes by which redox gradients develop in biotic and abiotic FFT material.
Eric Beamesderfer
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Altaf Arain
A large portion of forests in eastern Canada and US are plantation or managed forests of different ages that absorb atmospheric CO2. Enhancing carbon sequestration by increasing forested land area is one of the most cost-effective options to mitigate elevated atmospheric CO2 levels. The McMaster Hydrometeorology and Climatology group has initiated a long-term research program to investigate how different managed forests will respond to future climate change and extreme weather events. Currently, the seasonal and annual climate variability is being evaluated using 13 years (2003-2015) of eddy covariance fluxes and meteorological and biometric data obtained in Turkey Point, Ontario.
Eric Beamesderfer
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Altaf Arain
A large portion of forests in eastern Canada and US are plantation or managed forests of different ages that absorb atmospheric CO2. Enhancing carbon sequestration by increasing forested land area is one of the most cost-effective options to mitigate elevated atmospheric CO2 levels. The McMaster Hydrometeorology and Climatology group has initiated a long-term research program to investigate how different managed forests will respond to future climate change and extreme weather events. Currently, the seasonal and annual climate variability is being evaluated using 13 years (2003-2015) of eddy covariance fluxes and meteorological and biometric data obtained in Turkey Point, Ontario.
Kelly Biagi
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Sean Carey
I am originally from Kingston, Ontario in Canada and I have an educational background in fresh and salt water environmental chemistry. I am currently studying a thesis-based Master’s in Science in Environmental Science at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario. I received my Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science with an emphasis in Chemistry with Co-op and Honours at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
I have finished my honours thesis project which involved collecting and analyzing various aspects of water chemistry data such as pH, aluminum, calcium, conductivity as well as precipitation and stage height from the catchment liming experiment on the Maria Brook watershed in New Russell, Nova Scotia. It was one of the first projects in North America to use the addition of crushed limestone to an acidified watershed in attempt to neutralize the soils and surface waters and increase the pH. My Master’s thesis project involves examining the hydrochemistry and stable isotopes within a reclamation wetland on the oil sands in Fort McMurray, Alberta to determine the flow pathways of water within the wetland and if the flow pathways are acting similar to a wetland in a natural environment.
Kelly Biagi
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Sean Carey
I am originally from Kingston, Ontario in Canada and I have an educational background in fresh and salt water environmental chemistry. I am currently studying a thesis-based Master’s in Science in Environmental Science at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario. I received my Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science with an emphasis in Chemistry with Co-op and Honours at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
I have finished my honours thesis project which involved collecting and analyzing various aspects of water chemistry data such as pH, aluminum, calcium, conductivity as well as precipitation and stage height from the catchment liming experiment on the Maria Brook watershed in New Russell, Nova Scotia. It was one of the first projects in North America to use the addition of crushed limestone to an acidified watershed in attempt to neutralize the soils and surface waters and increase the pH. My Master’s thesis project involves examining the hydrochemistry and stable isotopes within a reclamation wetland on the oil sands in Fort McMurray, Alberta to determine the flow pathways of water within the wetland and if the flow pathways are acting similar to a wetland in a natural environment.
Heather Bonn
M.Sc. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Sean Carey
After the completion of my undergraduate thesis, which studied the influence of surface mining on the hydrometric response of an alpine basin, my MSc research continues here at McMaster. I am interested in studying the process of infiltration into frozen soils in an alpine environment and will be conducting research in Kananaskis, Alberta.
Heather Bonn
M.Sc. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Sean Carey
After the completion of my undergraduate thesis, which studied the influence of surface mining on the hydrometric response of an alpine basin, my MSc research continues here at McMaster. I am interested in studying the process of infiltration into frozen soils in an alpine environment and will be conducting research in Kananaskis, Alberta.
Keri Cameron
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Vera Chouinard
Geographies of disability and illness, Geographies of health and health care, Experiences of oppression, empowerment, advocacy, and resistance, Lived experience of total hip replacement and resurfacing, Medical tourism
Keri Cameron
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Vera Chouinard
Geographies of disability and illness, Geographies of health and health care, Experiences of oppression, empowerment, advocacy, and resistance, Lived experience of total hip replacement and resurfacing, Medical tourism
Olivier Champagne
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Altaf Arain
Part of FloodNet Project, the objective of my work is to study hydrological processes at watershed scale using a Coupled Ground-Water and Surface-Water Flow Model. Then to determine how these processes may be influenced by climate change and extreme weather events. Regional climate model forced by global warming scenarios will be helpful to answer that question with a focus on atmospheric circulation patterns.
Olivier Champagne
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Altaf Arain
Part of FloodNet Project, the objective of my work is to study hydrological processes at watershed scale using a Coupled Ground-Water and Surface-Water Flow Model. Then to determine how these processes may be influenced by climate change and extreme weather events. Regional climate model forced by global warming scenarios will be helpful to answer that question with a focus on atmospheric circulation patterns.
Huyen Dam
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Bruce Newbold
Research Background: Improving mental health outcomes for immigrants, refugees, ethnocultural and radicalized (IRER) groups has been an ambitious and challenging goal for the Mental Health Strategy of Canada (McKenzie et al., 2010). Barriers to accessing care are a form of social exclusion (McKeary & Newbold, 2010). At present, there are no policies that specifically address mental health for multi-cultural populations at the provincial or federal level. As noted by the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC), the need for improving services stems from three specific trends: (1) IRER groups exist in every province and territory across Canada; (2) IRER communities continue to grow every year due to Canada’s policy on immigration; and (3) within IRER groups, diversity intersects with socio-environmental factors to increase the complexity of need that makes services difficult to access (CAMH, 2009).
Recommendations from MCHH point to the need for developing networks of consumers, family members and community representatives to eliminate structural inequalities though social inclusion in community planning. Networks can serve as a bridge for knowledge exchange about needs and available resources, in addition to providing knowledge about barriers that exist. The inclusion of multi-cultural groups in planning is, therefore, strategic and equitable. Not only is knowledge exchange needed for providers to be better informed about their diverse populations, knowledge exchange will also enable multi-cultural groups to become stakeholders in the decision making process (see CAMH, 2009; p. 6).
Objectives: The purpose of this study is to contextualize a local experience of improving equity of care for multi-cultural communities in Hamilton. More specifically, this research explores the ways in which cultural groups and service organizations in the City of Hamilton have come together in a collaborative effort to plan and to take an innovative approach to mental health education. At the start of 2012, concerns about mental health were raised from various cultural communities that led to the development of a health strategy that resulted in the creation of The Mental Health Connectors Program, which trained ten cultural and linguistic brokers [CLBs] in mental health awareness and education. At the same time, frontline and management staffs from four major Mainstream Health Service Providers [MHSPs] underwent diversity assessment and training. This study aims to: Explore the roles of CLBs in knowledge exchange between their cultural community and the MHSPs; Examine the MHSPs’ capacity to diversify mental health promotion strategies though the process of engaging multi-cultural groups; and Explore the ways in which equity and inclusion in mental health strategy, planning, and promotion affected multi-cultural communities in Hamilton.
Huyen Dam
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Bruce Newbold
Research Background: Improving mental health outcomes for immigrants, refugees, ethnocultural and radicalized (IRER) groups has been an ambitious and challenging goal for the Mental Health Strategy of Canada (McKenzie et al., 2010). Barriers to accessing care are a form of social exclusion (McKeary & Newbold, 2010). At present, there are no policies that specifically address mental health for multi-cultural populations at the provincial or federal level. As noted by the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC), the need for improving services stems from three specific trends: (1) IRER groups exist in every province and territory across Canada; (2) IRER communities continue to grow every year due to Canada’s policy on immigration; and (3) within IRER groups, diversity intersects with socio-environmental factors to increase the complexity of need that makes services difficult to access (CAMH, 2009).
Recommendations from MCHH point to the need for developing networks of consumers, family members and community representatives to eliminate structural inequalities though social inclusion in community planning. Networks can serve as a bridge for knowledge exchange about needs and available resources, in addition to providing knowledge about barriers that exist. The inclusion of multi-cultural groups in planning is, therefore, strategic and equitable. Not only is knowledge exchange needed for providers to be better informed about their diverse populations, knowledge exchange will also enable multi-cultural groups to become stakeholders in the decision making process (see CAMH, 2009; p. 6).
Objectives: The purpose of this study is to contextualize a local experience of improving equity of care for multi-cultural communities in Hamilton. More specifically, this research explores the ways in which cultural groups and service organizations in the City of Hamilton have come together in a collaborative effort to plan and to take an innovative approach to mental health education. At the start of 2012, concerns about mental health were raised from various cultural communities that led to the development of a health strategy that resulted in the creation of The Mental Health Connectors Program, which trained ten cultural and linguistic brokers [CLBs] in mental health awareness and education. At the same time, frontline and management staffs from four major Mainstream Health Service Providers [MHSPs] underwent diversity assessment and training. This study aims to: Explore the roles of CLBs in knowledge exchange between their cultural community and the MHSPs; Examine the MHSPs’ capacity to diversify mental health promotion strategies though the process of engaging multi-cultural groups; and Explore the ways in which equity and inclusion in mental health strategy, planning, and promotion affected multi-cultural communities in Hamilton.
Anastassios Dardas
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Allison Williams
My research will explore the impacts of health determinants, such as sex/gender, access to health services, and socio-economic status, and transportation patterns of caregiver employees. The goal of this study is to increase our understanding of the experiences of caregiver employees, who provide care to elderly with complicated chronic conditions while employed in the labor force. Therefore, the primary objective of this research project is to convey valuable information to caregivers in terms of how they can improve work-life balance, via a temporal and spatial analysis of health determinants, and in so doing maintain their health. Methods that will be used for this project are qualitative, quantitative (GIS), and theoretical concepts.
Anastassios Dardas
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Allison Williams
My research will explore the impacts of health determinants, such as sex/gender, access to health services, and socio-economic status, and transportation patterns of caregiver employees. The goal of this study is to increase our understanding of the experiences of caregiver employees, who provide care to elderly with complicated chronic conditions while employed in the labor force. Therefore, the primary objective of this research project is to convey valuable information to caregivers in terms of how they can improve work-life balance, via a temporal and spatial analysis of health determinants, and in so doing maintain their health. Methods that will be used for this project are qualitative, quantitative (GIS), and theoretical concepts.
Daniel Del Bianco
Ph.D. Candidate (Part-Time)
Supervisor: Dr. Antonio Paez
School boards throughout Ontario are continually pressured by the provincial government to become more effective and efficient. One of the ways in which school boards can become more effective and efficient is through the closure of schools and the elimination of surplus pupil spaces. The argument often used by the local community in objection to school closures is that the school is more than just an educational institution; it acts as a community hub which helps define or enhance a sense of community. My research will focus on understanding how people define sense of community, the role that schools and other public and private infrastructure play in defining a community, and what other characteristics enhance or hinder a person?s sense of community in the City of Hamilton.
Daniel Del Bianco
Ph.D. Candidate (Part-Time)
Supervisor: Dr. Antonio Paez
School boards throughout Ontario are continually pressured by the provincial government to become more effective and efficient. One of the ways in which school boards can become more effective and efficient is through the closure of schools and the elimination of surplus pupil spaces. The argument often used by the local community in objection to school closures is that the school is more than just an educational institution; it acts as a community hub which helps define or enhance a sense of community. My research will focus on understanding how people define sense of community, the role that schools and other public and private infrastructure play in defining a community, and what other characteristics enhance or hinder a person?s sense of community in the City of Hamilton.
Elnaz Haj Abotalebi
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Darren Scott
My PhD thesis is focused on estimation of consumer demand for Electric vehicles in Canada and identification of the population segments that are most likely to consider an electric car as their next vehicle purchase.
Elnaz Haj Abotalebi
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Darren Scott
My PhD thesis is focused on estimation of consumer demand for Electric vehicles in Canada and identification of the population segments that are most likely to consider an electric car as their next vehicle purchase.
Stine Hansen
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Rob Wilton
My research explores the prevalence and perception of vision impairment and disability among immigrants in Canada using a mixed methods approach. Using Statistics Canada’s Participation and Activity Limitation Survey (PALS) 2006 dataset, I use descriptive statistics to evaluate the prevalence of vision impairment and sources of care. Second, perception of vision impairment and disability is examined using semi-structured interviews with vision impaired immigrant clients from the Canadian Institute for the Blind (CNIB) in Southern Ontario.
The goal is to explore if vision impairment is more or less prevalent in immigrants compared to Canadians and whether their perception of vision impairment and disability influences their access and utilization of healthcare.
Stine Hansen
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Rob Wilton
My research explores the prevalence and perception of vision impairment and disability among immigrants in Canada using a mixed methods approach. Using Statistics Canada’s Participation and Activity Limitation Survey (PALS) 2006 dataset, I use descriptive statistics to evaluate the prevalence of vision impairment and sources of care. Second, perception of vision impairment and disability is examined using semi-structured interviews with vision impaired immigrant clients from the Canadian Institute for the Blind (CNIB) in Southern Ontario.
The goal is to explore if vision impairment is more or less prevalent in immigrants compared to Canadians and whether their perception of vision impairment and disability influences their access and utilization of healthcare.
Waad Khogali Ali
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Suzanne Mills
- Economic Geography
- Precarious Employment
- Employment Related Geographic Mobility (E-RGM)
- Geostatistics and Geographic Information Systems(GIS)
Waad Khogali Ali
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Suzanne Mills
- Economic Geography
- Precarious Employment
- Employment Related Geographic Mobility (E-RGM)
- Geostatistics and Geographic Information Systems(GIS)
Kathleen Kinsella
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Bruce Newbold
The challenges of “wicked” policy problems facing cities, such as persistent concentrated poverty and segregation, have led many jurisdictions to adopt place-based policy as a response. Place-based policy seeks to deliver extra or specialized resources and services to disadvantaged areas, often with the participation of local organizations and citizens. There has been some success with such approaches, but status-quo policy approaches do little to alter the forces that create socio-spatial inequalities in the first place. Similarly, relatively little of the research on place-based policies has examined what kinds of supplementary policies may be needed to alter the inequitable spatial allocation of resources in the first place. In my dissertation research, I will examine the applicability of inclusionary housing tools as an additional element to complement the place-based policy approach that the City of Hamilton has undertaken and how these policies can be adapted to be relevant across the Canadian context.
Kathleen Kinsella
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Bruce Newbold
The challenges of “wicked” policy problems facing cities, such as persistent concentrated poverty and segregation, have led many jurisdictions to adopt place-based policy as a response. Place-based policy seeks to deliver extra or specialized resources and services to disadvantaged areas, often with the participation of local organizations and citizens. There has been some success with such approaches, but status-quo policy approaches do little to alter the forces that create socio-spatial inequalities in the first place. Similarly, relatively little of the research on place-based policies has examined what kinds of supplementary policies may be needed to alter the inequitable spatial allocation of resources in the first place. In my dissertation research, I will examine the applicability of inclusionary housing tools as an additional element to complement the place-based policy approach that the City of Hamilton has undertaken and how these policies can be adapted to be relevant across the Canadian context.
David Kynaston
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Janok Bhattacharya
Reconstruction of a cretaceous paleo-valley to determine the nature and internal organization of a petroleum reservoir analogue. 3-D reconstruction of this tributary valley is interpolated from 32 measured sections and photomosaics. Hydrological analysis of the sandy units will be used to predict flow properties within this deposit located in the Upper Blue Hills area south of Factory Butte near Hankville, UT.
David Kynaston
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Janok Bhattacharya
Reconstruction of a cretaceous paleo-valley to determine the nature and internal organization of a petroleum reservoir analogue. 3-D reconstruction of this tributary valley is interpolated from 32 measured sections and photomosaics. Hydrological analysis of the sandy units will be used to predict flow properties within this deposit located in the Upper Blue Hills area south of Factory Butte near Hankville, UT.
Rebecca Lee
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Carolyn Eyles
The focus of this research is on the active drumlin field at Mulajokull, a surge type glacier in central Iceland. Field study of the area and aerial imagery will be used to analyze the sedimentological and morphological characteristics of the drumlins within the field. This will be complied into a spatial database where various parameters will be examined for patterns in distribution and how these may relate to ice dynamics. The results of this research will provide new information on the conditions associated with the formation of drumlins to aid in the understanding of their genesis. Furthermore, a detailed description of the modern drumlin field allows for use as an analogue for ancient drumlin fields, such as those found within Canada.
Rebecca Lee
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Carolyn Eyles
The focus of this research is on the active drumlin field at Mulajokull, a surge type glacier in central Iceland. Field study of the area and aerial imagery will be used to analyze the sedimentological and morphological characteristics of the drumlins within the field. This will be complied into a spatial database where various parameters will be examined for patterns in distribution and how these may relate to ice dynamics. The results of this research will provide new information on the conditions associated with the formation of drumlins to aid in the understanding of their genesis. Furthermore, a detailed description of the modern drumlin field allows for use as an analogue for ancient drumlin fields, such as those found within Canada.
Wen Lin
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Janok Bhattacharya
My PhD research work will be devoted to examining the sequence stratigraphy and facies architecture of the Cretaceous Gallup Sandstone in the San Juan Basin, New Mexico. The research will focus on the following aspects:
- High-resolution Sequence stratigraphy, shoreline trajectory, and implications for Cretaceous sea-level changes.
- Facies architecture of asymmetrical storm and wave- influenced deltas.
- Non-marine sequence stratigraphy of the Gallup and Crevasse Canyon formations, New Mexico.
- Forced regressions and link between the marine and non-marine expression.
- Analysis of the origin of thin-beds in pro-delta shale.
- Paleohydraulics and sediment budget in Source to Sink Systems
Wen Lin
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Janok Bhattacharya
My PhD research work will be devoted to examining the sequence stratigraphy and facies architecture of the Cretaceous Gallup Sandstone in the San Juan Basin, New Mexico. The research will focus on the following aspects:
- High-resolution Sequence stratigraphy, shoreline trajectory, and implications for Cretaceous sea-level changes.
- Facies architecture of asymmetrical storm and wave- influenced deltas.
- Non-marine sequence stratigraphy of the Gallup and Crevasse Canyon formations, New Mexico.
- Forced regressions and link between the marine and non-marine expression.
- Analysis of the origin of thin-beds in pro-delta shale.
- Paleohydraulics and sediment budget in Source to Sink Systems
Stephanie Marshall
M.Sc. Candidate (Part-Time)
Supervisor: Dr. Lesley Warren
Research Interests:
- Sulphur Biogeochemistry
- Improving environmental practices in the mining industry
- Microbial interactions in freshwater systems
Stephanie Marshall
M.Sc. Candidate (Part-Time)
Supervisor: Dr. Lesley Warren
Research Interests:
- Sulphur Biogeochemistry
- Improving environmental practices in the mining industry
- Microbial interactions in freshwater systems
Shawn Mckenzie
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Altaf Arain
Carbon isotopes, climate dynamics and carbon cycling in temperate forests
Abstract:
I am investigating carbon isotope labels in conifer and deciduous temperate forests in southern Ontario. I am linking these labels to historical extreme weather events and regional climate dynamics using meteorological flux data collected at our field sites. My work includes tree-ring analyses of tree bores and discus, carbon isotope extraction and analysis of whole wood, comparisons to meteorological flux data and historical records, and modelling/predicting future trends in regional climate using carbon isotope labels.
Shawn Mckenzie
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Altaf Arain
Carbon isotopes, climate dynamics and carbon cycling in temperate forests
Abstract:
I am investigating carbon isotope labels in conifer and deciduous temperate forests in southern Ontario. I am linking these labels to historical extreme weather events and regional climate dynamics using meteorological flux data collected at our field sites. My work includes tree-ring analyses of tree bores and discus, carbon isotope extraction and analysis of whole wood, comparisons to meteorological flux data and historical records, and modelling/predicting future trends in regional climate using carbon isotope labels.
Chelsi McNeill-Jewer
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Ed Reinhardt
In the future it will be imperative for local and global governments to make sustainable water resource allocations based on sound scientific inquiry. Knowledge of how coastal groundwater and surface water have been impacted by parameters such as changing sea level, anomalous precipitation events (i.e, droughts, hurricanes), and expanded agriculture will be crucial pieces of information in order to make these important adaptive decisions.
My studies focus on paleoclimate and paleohydrological reconstruction of coastlines using stable isotope geochemistry and microfossils. I am interested in the response of how global hydrology will interact with our changing climate, and in turn how this may impact human life in both the long and short term. In addition to my work with Dr. Reinhardt in the School of Earth, Environment & Society, I will be working with Dr. Nidhi Nagabhatla and the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health through the Water Without Borders program. This is a collaborative degree program that will address the interdisciplinary and cross-boundary issue of global water sustainability using a hands-on policy and rights based approach.
I am also dedicated to the continual improvement of science education, specifically focusing on climate and water centered issues mixed with rights-based environmental sustainability. As a scientist and a student I have learned that no matter how much I personally know, I can never make a difference in this world unless I am able to effectively disseminate my knowledge. I therefore feel committed to improve the efficiency of science education and communication using sound pedagogy and scientific study.
Chelsi McNeill-Jewer
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Ed Reinhardt
In the future it will be imperative for local and global governments to make sustainable water resource allocations based on sound scientific inquiry. Knowledge of how coastal groundwater and surface water have been impacted by parameters such as changing sea level, anomalous precipitation events (i.e, droughts, hurricanes), and expanded agriculture will be crucial pieces of information in order to make these important adaptive decisions.
My studies focus on paleoclimate and paleohydrological reconstruction of coastlines using stable isotope geochemistry and microfossils. I am interested in the response of how global hydrology will interact with our changing climate, and in turn how this may impact human life in both the long and short term. In addition to my work with Dr. Reinhardt in the School of Earth, Environment & Society, I will be working with Dr. Nidhi Nagabhatla and the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health through the Water Without Borders program. This is a collaborative degree program that will address the interdisciplinary and cross-boundary issue of global water sustainability using a hands-on policy and rights based approach.
I am also dedicated to the continual improvement of science education, specifically focusing on climate and water centered issues mixed with rights-based environmental sustainability. As a scientist and a student I have learned that no matter how much I personally know, I can never make a difference in this world unless I am able to effectively disseminate my knowledge. I therefore feel committed to improve the efficiency of science education and communication using sound pedagogy and scientific study.
Riley Mulligan
Ph.D. Candidate (Part-Time)
Supervisor: Dr. Carolyn Eyles
Sedimentological analysis of glaciated basins, paleoenvironmental reconstruction, Quaternary Geology, Glacial processes and dynamics, Glacial processes and dynamics
Riley Mulligan
Ph.D. Candidate (Part-Time)
Supervisor: Dr. Carolyn Eyles
Sedimentological analysis of glaciated basins, paleoenvironmental reconstruction, Quaternary Geology, Glacial processes and dynamics, Glacial processes and dynamics
Wasan Nagib
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Rob Wilton
My research interest lies in the broad area of environment and health. I am particularly interested in developing therapeutic built environments for autistic children. The significance of this research stems from the fact that Autism is by far the most rapidly advancing childhood disorder in North America. There is an urgent need to rethink the way we design our everyday places and buildings, not only to accommodate the direct and functional needs of autistics but, more importantly, to contribute to their wellbeing.
Using the therapeutic landscape theory (Williams 2007), which explores the healing effects of the environment and the importance of place to physical and mental well-being, my research aims at providing answers to the following questions:
- Using Therapeutic Landscape Approach, what are the physical elements that affect the quality of life of autistic children in their home environment?
- How can these elements be designed (or modified) to create an autism-friendly home environment?
The research will achieve a series of objectives including:
- Understanding the common characteristics of autistics affecting their interaction with the built environment.
- Understanding the common challenges of autistics and their families in their home environment and the physical elements contributing to these challenges.
- Identifying the common home modifications adapted by families to face these challenges.
- Exploring in detail the life experience of families and their quality of life before and after modifications
Wasan Nagib
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Rob Wilton
My research interest lies in the broad area of environment and health. I am particularly interested in developing therapeutic built environments for autistic children. The significance of this research stems from the fact that Autism is by far the most rapidly advancing childhood disorder in North America. There is an urgent need to rethink the way we design our everyday places and buildings, not only to accommodate the direct and functional needs of autistics but, more importantly, to contribute to their wellbeing.
Using the therapeutic landscape theory (Williams 2007), which explores the healing effects of the environment and the importance of place to physical and mental well-being, my research aims at providing answers to the following questions:
- Using Therapeutic Landscape Approach, what are the physical elements that affect the quality of life of autistic children in their home environment?
- How can these elements be designed (or modified) to create an autism-friendly home environment?
The research will achieve a series of objectives including:
- Understanding the common characteristics of autistics affecting their interaction with the built environment.
- Understanding the common challenges of autistics and their families in their home environment and the physical elements contributing to these challenges.
- Identifying the common home modifications adapted by families to face these challenges.
- Exploring in detail the life experience of families and their quality of life before and after modifications
Rodrigo Narro Perez
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Carolyn Eyles
One of South America’s most challenging issues is the rapid and evident retreat of the Andean tropical glaciers that serve as a freshwater supply for many communities. The Peruvian communities in the Santa River Valley on the Western slope of the Cordillera Blanca that lie in the province of Ancash (north of Lima) rely heavily on glacier meltwater for freshwater. My proposed research project aims to better understand the impact retreating glaciers will have on local communities in the Ancash province that rely on meltwater as a freshwater source. It is important to understand the impact that water has on a community’s health, in particular those in developing nations. I am also interested in seeing the social impacts that this rapid deglaciation has had from a social perspective. Water management and water risk, both in water quantity and quality, are of importance in fragile communities such as this.
This is research is meant to further the research mission of the United Nations University – Institute for Water, the Environment and Health which include “three inter-connected and closely linked challenges: ensuring water-health security for everyone on the planet; utilizing the potential for cooperation for water security in shared water resources; and ensuring ample water resources for producing, processing and securing food supply for rising population” (UNU-INWEH, 2015).
Rodrigo Narro Perez
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Carolyn Eyles
One of South America’s most challenging issues is the rapid and evident retreat of the Andean tropical glaciers that serve as a freshwater supply for many communities. The Peruvian communities in the Santa River Valley on the Western slope of the Cordillera Blanca that lie in the province of Ancash (north of Lima) rely heavily on glacier meltwater for freshwater. My proposed research project aims to better understand the impact retreating glaciers will have on local communities in the Ancash province that rely on meltwater as a freshwater source. It is important to understand the impact that water has on a community’s health, in particular those in developing nations. I am also interested in seeing the social impacts that this rapid deglaciation has had from a social perspective. Water management and water risk, both in water quantity and quality, are of importance in fragile communities such as this.
This is research is meant to further the research mission of the United Nations University – Institute for Water, the Environment and Health which include “three inter-connected and closely linked challenges: ensuring water-health security for everyone on the planet; utilizing the potential for cooperation for water security in shared water resources; and ensuring ample water resources for producing, processing and securing food supply for rising population” (UNU-INWEH, 2015).
Mario Reyes-Gafan
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Antonio Paez
Accessibility, Built Environments and Travel Behaviour, Active Transportation (Walking and Cycling) and Physical Activity, Spatial Statistics and Econometrics
Thesis Summary: Abstract:
Parks are key components of urban environments. In addition to their intrinsic environmental value, parks serve a number of valuable social functions. In particular, urban parks help promote physical activity and thus help reduce the risk of obesity and other adverse health outcomes. In order to enjoy the beneficial opportunities for activities in parks, users must have reasonable access to these resources. Previous research has explored the question of inequality in accessibility to parks, as this may be a limiting factor in terms of usage, and a source of disparities in health outcomes. A starting point for inquiries about park utilization and the potential benefits of urban green spaces must begin with an assessment of their geographical accessibility. Of particular interest, in terms of potential users of parks, are children. The geographical range of children is limited by their ability to traverse space using non-motorized or public modes of transportation, and by their dependence on adults for other forms of motorized mobility. The objective of this research is to measure accessibility to urban parks from the perspective of children traveling by non-motorized modes. The research aim is to evaluate the relationship between the distribution of children population and the conditions of accessibility to urban parks, in order to understand the potential for use and possible spatial disparities in the distribution of valuable environmental resources. The case study is the City of Montreal, and the implementation of accessibility is supported by a geographically detailed analysis of the travel behaviour of children.
Mario Reyes-Gafan
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Antonio Paez
Accessibility, Built Environments and Travel Behaviour, Active Transportation (Walking and Cycling) and Physical Activity, Spatial Statistics and Econometrics
Thesis Summary: Abstract:
Parks are key components of urban environments. In addition to their intrinsic environmental value, parks serve a number of valuable social functions. In particular, urban parks help promote physical activity and thus help reduce the risk of obesity and other adverse health outcomes. In order to enjoy the beneficial opportunities for activities in parks, users must have reasonable access to these resources. Previous research has explored the question of inequality in accessibility to parks, as this may be a limiting factor in terms of usage, and a source of disparities in health outcomes. A starting point for inquiries about park utilization and the potential benefits of urban green spaces must begin with an assessment of their geographical accessibility. Of particular interest, in terms of potential users of parks, are children. The geographical range of children is limited by their ability to traverse space using non-motorized or public modes of transportation, and by their dependence on adults for other forms of motorized mobility. The objective of this research is to measure accessibility to urban parks from the perspective of children traveling by non-motorized modes. The research aim is to evaluate the relationship between the distribution of children population and the conditions of accessibility to urban parks, in order to understand the potential for use and possible spatial disparities in the distribution of valuable environmental resources. The case study is the City of Montreal, and the implementation of accessibility is supported by a geographically detailed analysis of the travel behaviour of children.
Sandeep Sharma
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Janok Bhattacharya
My current research project is focused on regional sequence stratigraphy and facies architecture analysis of the Gallup Sandstone. The stratigraphic framework currently available for the Gallup Sandstone focusses pre-dominantly on lithofacies without any sequence stratigraphic implications. I plan to use isochronous Bentonite beds as datum to provide control on age to aid high-resolution regional correlation. The vertical facies stacking trends obtained from meticulous study of outcrops will be linked with shoreline trajectory analysis to identify and map the depositional systems and systems tracts. These steps will help in producing a stratigraphic framework of the Gallup Sandstone in true sequence stratigraphic sense. Carrying out facies and architecture element analysis to distinguish tributive, trunk and distributive systems and establishing the relative influence of wave, river and tidal processes on the shallow marine deposits of the Gallup Sandstone will also be another major focus of the research. The outcome of the facies analysis will be further used in paleo-hydraulic estimates of the rivers and source-to-sink mass balance studies and tracking of dynamic boundaries like bayline and backwater.
Sandeep Sharma
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Janok Bhattacharya
My current research project is focused on regional sequence stratigraphy and facies architecture analysis of the Gallup Sandstone. The stratigraphic framework currently available for the Gallup Sandstone focusses pre-dominantly on lithofacies without any sequence stratigraphic implications. I plan to use isochronous Bentonite beds as datum to provide control on age to aid high-resolution regional correlation. The vertical facies stacking trends obtained from meticulous study of outcrops will be linked with shoreline trajectory analysis to identify and map the depositional systems and systems tracts. These steps will help in producing a stratigraphic framework of the Gallup Sandstone in true sequence stratigraphic sense. Carrying out facies and architecture element analysis to distinguish tributive, trunk and distributive systems and establishing the relative influence of wave, river and tidal processes on the shallow marine deposits of the Gallup Sandstone will also be another major focus of the research. The outcome of the facies analysis will be further used in paleo-hydraulic estimates of the rivers and source-to-sink mass balance studies and tracking of dynamic boundaries like bayline and backwater.
Nadine Shatilla
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Sean Carey
Nadine has started her PhD and will be working in Yukon helping further our understanding of hydrological processes in cold environments.
Nadine Shatilla
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Sean Carey
Nadine has started her PhD and will be working in Yukon helping further our understanding of hydrological processes in cold environments.
Victor Tang
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Sean Carey
Victor’s MSc work invovles automating hydrograph and rainfall-runoff analysis. He also is working to integrate GIS into hydrograph analysis.
Victor Tang
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Sean Carey
Victor’s MSc work invovles automating hydrograph and rainfall-runoff analysis. He also is working to integrate GIS into hydrograph analysis.
Majed Turkistani
PhD Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Eduard Reinhardt
Majed is a micropaleontologist studying paleoenvironment conditions of the Upper Cretaceous Ferron-Notom Delta, Utah, USA. He is implementing foraminifera and thecamoebians as proxies to investigate the marine influences, transition zones and paleoenvironmental physiochemical of the Ferron-Notom delta. His project is in conjunction with a sequence stratigraphic study conducted on the Ferron Sandstone member to characterize and construct complete deltaic facies and architecture models by Dr. Janok Bhattacharya and his team. The extant understanding of the Ferron “Notom Delta” sequence stratigraphy and its facies associations is well documented and understood. However, this is limited to physical criteria including sedimentology, and lithostratigraphy, but as many as ancient systems are lacking physiochemical criteria, such as salinity, temperature, organic content, oxygen concentrations as well as sea-level fluctuations. In Holocene / Quaternary environments, the integration of both approaches (physical and physiochemical) are attainable; therefore, paleoenvironment reconstructions are possible.
On the other hand, ancient systems (e.g., Ferron Sandstone) can be investigated from physical criteria, but it is difficult to subdivide or classify these systems because they have undergone modification by post-depositional diagenetic processes (taphonomic processes), which lead to missing one or more of the physiochemical criteria (Scott et al., 2001). In order to address these knowledge gaps Majed’s study will implement foraminifera and thecamoebians as proxies to investigate Ferron-Notom Delta. This approach will combine sequence stratigraphy with detailed micropaleontological data of mud sediments to refine the understanding of the fluvial-deltaic sedimentary facies with regard physiochemical criteria and use it to identify the Ferron-Notom Delta sub-environments and lay down the foundation for future studies. Both assemblages will help us to determine the paleoenvironmental parameters mentioned above by comparing this study’s species with modern analogs. Taking into consideration the preservation status and other taphonomic processes that may have a direct or indirect impact on the identification of these species to species level so that the morphogroups analysis will be considered. Recent studies showed that it is possible to define sequence systems tract from foraminiferal biofacies general trends; therefore, this can be applied to produce models interpreting the various systems tract of the Ferron ‚ÄúNotom Delta.‚Äù
Majed Turkistani
PhD Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Eduard Reinhardt
Majed is a micropaleontologist studying paleoenvironment conditions of the Upper Cretaceous Ferron-Notom Delta, Utah, USA. He is implementing foraminifera and thecamoebians as proxies to investigate the marine influences, transition zones and paleoenvironmental physiochemical of the Ferron-Notom delta. His project is in conjunction with a sequence stratigraphic study conducted on the Ferron Sandstone member to characterize and construct complete deltaic facies and architecture models by Dr. Janok Bhattacharya and his team. The extant understanding of the Ferron “Notom Delta” sequence stratigraphy and its facies associations is well documented and understood. However, this is limited to physical criteria including sedimentology, and lithostratigraphy, but as many as ancient systems are lacking physiochemical criteria, such as salinity, temperature, organic content, oxygen concentrations as well as sea-level fluctuations. In Holocene / Quaternary environments, the integration of both approaches (physical and physiochemical) are attainable; therefore, paleoenvironment reconstructions are possible.
On the other hand, ancient systems (e.g., Ferron Sandstone) can be investigated from physical criteria, but it is difficult to subdivide or classify these systems because they have undergone modification by post-depositional diagenetic processes (taphonomic processes), which lead to missing one or more of the physiochemical criteria (Scott et al., 2001). In order to address these knowledge gaps Majed’s study will implement foraminifera and thecamoebians as proxies to investigate Ferron-Notom Delta. This approach will combine sequence stratigraphy with detailed micropaleontological data of mud sediments to refine the understanding of the fluvial-deltaic sedimentary facies with regard physiochemical criteria and use it to identify the Ferron-Notom Delta sub-environments and lay down the foundation for future studies. Both assemblages will help us to determine the paleoenvironmental parameters mentioned above by comparing this study’s species with modern analogs. Taking into consideration the preservation status and other taphonomic processes that may have a direct or indirect impact on the identification of these species to species level so that the morphogroups analysis will be considered. Recent studies showed that it is possible to define sequence systems tract from foraminiferal biofacies general trends; therefore, this can be applied to produce models interpreting the various systems tract of the Ferron ‚ÄúNotom Delta.‚Äù
Khafi Weekes
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Gail Krantzberg
I am interested in using the comparative policy development approach to respond to challenges related to sustainable groundwater access in the Great Lakes Basin. Drawing from the transboundary European Water Framework policy, and expected trends in fluxes in and out of the Basin driven by anthropogenic demand and climate change, I am hoping to propose a revised, harmonised, transboundary policy between the USA and Canada that will ensure sustained availability of groundwater for all users.
Khafi Weekes
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Gail Krantzberg
I am interested in using the comparative policy development approach to respond to challenges related to sustainable groundwater access in the Great Lakes Basin. Drawing from the transboundary European Water Framework policy, and expected trends in fluxes in and out of the Basin driven by anthropogenic demand and climate change, I am hoping to propose a revised, harmonised, transboundary policy between the USA and Canada that will ensure sustained availability of groundwater for all users.
Kate Whalen
Ph.D. Candidate (Part-Time)
Supervisor: Dr. Antonio Paez
Research Interests: Experiential learning and reflection; Sustainability education, Interdisciplinary education, Human-environment interactions; Assessment in higher education
Kate Whalen is a PhD candidate in the School of Geography & Earth Sciences at McMaster University. Recent interests include exploring the extensive history of geography education in providing a platform to foster human and environment interactions and experiential learning. Kate is currently working to understand the role of experience in the learning process with a focus on reflection as a tool for teaching and learning. Kate holds a Master of Arts from McMaster University. Kate previously developed and managed McMaster’s Office of Sustainability before spearheading the development and management of McMaster’s Academic Sustainability Programs Office starting in 2014.
The role of experience in the learning process can be easily understood by reflecting on some common real-life examples, such as a situation where one has learned something new through experimentation, stumbled upon a great idea through taking part in a new activity or felt the consequences of a big mistake. A review of the literature shows a long history of research into the role of experience in the learning process, which has been conducted by researchers including John Dewey (Dewy’s Model of Learning), Kaurt Lewin (The Lewinian Model of Action Research and Laboratory Training), and David Kolb (Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theoryto name a few. The body of knowledge on this topic extends to include a plethora of related information on topics such as student learning styles, planned behavior, surface versus deep learning as well as tools and techniques for educators including community-based learning, problem based learning and reflective writing. While there is much agreement that experience plays a role in learning, we are interested in learning what other components of the experiential learning process contribute to deep and life-long learning.
Kate Whalen
Ph.D. Candidate (Part-Time)
Supervisor: Dr. Antonio Paez
Research Interests: Experiential learning and reflection; Sustainability education, Interdisciplinary education, Human-environment interactions; Assessment in higher education
Kate Whalen is a PhD candidate in the School of Geography & Earth Sciences at McMaster University. Recent interests include exploring the extensive history of geography education in providing a platform to foster human and environment interactions and experiential learning. Kate is currently working to understand the role of experience in the learning process with a focus on reflection as a tool for teaching and learning. Kate holds a Master of Arts from McMaster University. Kate previously developed and managed McMaster’s Office of Sustainability before spearheading the development and management of McMaster’s Academic Sustainability Programs Office starting in 2014.
The role of experience in the learning process can be easily understood by reflecting on some common real-life examples, such as a situation where one has learned something new through experimentation, stumbled upon a great idea through taking part in a new activity or felt the consequences of a big mistake. A review of the literature shows a long history of research into the role of experience in the learning process, which has been conducted by researchers including John Dewey (Dewy’s Model of Learning), Kaurt Lewin (The Lewinian Model of Action Research and Laboratory Training), and David Kolb (Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theoryto name a few. The body of knowledge on this topic extends to include a plethora of related information on topics such as student learning styles, planned behavior, surface versus deep learning as well as tools and techniques for educators including community-based learning, problem based learning and reflective writing. While there is much agreement that experience plays a role in learning, we are interested in learning what other components of the experiential learning process contribute to deep and life-long learning.
Sophie Wilkinson
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Mike Waddington
My research for the Ecohydrology lab is based around peatland hydrology and its effects on resilience and recovery after disturbance by wildfire. Fieldwork, primarily in the Utikuma Region Study Area in the Western Boreal Plain, will develop our understanding of the natural systems, pre and post disturbance. I have specific interests in the role of margin areas and feedbacks in the peatland ecosystems. This knowledge will be used to inform an existing peatland hydrology model and used to test thresholds of ecosystem collapse with respect to disturbance.
Sophie Wilkinson
Ph.D. Candidate
Supervisor: Dr. Mike Waddington
My research for the Ecohydrology lab is based around peatland hydrology and its effects on resilience and recovery after disturbance by wildfire. Fieldwork, primarily in the Utikuma Region Study Area in the Western Boreal Plain, will develop our understanding of the natural systems, pre and post disturbance. I have specific interests in the role of margin areas and feedbacks in the peatland ecosystems. This knowledge will be used to inform an existing peatland hydrology model and used to test thresholds of ecosystem collapse with respect to disturbance.
Greg Zilberbrant
Ph.D. Candidate (Part-Time)
Supervisor: Dr. Gail Krantzberg
Greg Zilberbrant
Ph.D. Candidate (Part-Time)
Supervisor: Dr. Gail Krantzberg