Negar Razzaghi

Sustainable Energy Engineering | doctoral degree | Faculty of  Applied Sciences

Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field

I am inspired by the opportunity to use data and modeling to better understand environmental and social challenges. My work focuses on transportation emissions and how cold climates can change their impacts on cities. What motivates me most is that this research can support more realistic decarbonization pathways and more equitable decision-making, especially for groups that are more vulnerable or more highly exposed to pollution.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

I chose SFU because of what it is famous for, its interdisciplinary approach.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

My research looks at whether common decarbonization strategies, such as increasing the use of electric and hybrid vehicles, work as effectively in cold cities as expected. I study how cold weather affects emissions not only by changing how much vehicles emit, but also by changing how traffic behaves. This also helps us better understand air pollution and its health impacts in cold urban areas.

What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?

Transportation, Emission, Cold climate

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

My courses, especially in atmospheric air pollution, played an important role in building the foundation for my research. My TA-ships experience has helped me grow as a supportive peer, communicator, and collaborator.

What have been the most valuable lessons you've learned along your graduate student journey (or in becoming a graduate student)?

One of the most valuable lessons I have learned is to appreciate the process of learning. Graduate studies can be demanding, but they have also reminded me that this journey is a privilege.

Contact: negar_razzaghi@sfu.ca