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"I enjoy working with data and exploring the intersections of environmental policy, economics, and equity. I chose to pursue my master's at SFU because of the exceptional faculty and research opportunities in Resource and Environmental Management."

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Helena Debus

June 26, 2024
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Resource and Environmental Management master's student in the

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

I'm a Master of Resource and Environmental Management (MRM thesis) candidate in the Faculty of Environment at SFU. I enjoy working with data and exploring the intersections of environmental policy, economics, and equity. I鈥檓 fascinated by global patterns and love finding trends in data and translating complex concepts into accessible insights. Given the urgency of climate change, I'm also interested in how we can transition from fossil-fuel-based industries to more sustainable alternatives.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

I chose to pursue my master's at SFU because of the exceptional faculty and research opportunities in Resource and Environmental Management. Dr. Scott Harrison first encouraged me to consider graduate studies, and my work with Dr. Andr茅s Cisneros-Montemayor and Dr. Pedro Gonzalez-Espinosa from 2023 to 2024 ultimately solidified my decision. Dr. Andr茅s Cisneros-Montemayor's research group focuses on equity in ocean governance, making it the ideal environment to explore my interests.

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

I study the ocean economy, analyzing global patterns in how we use ocean resources like fisheries, renewable energy, and bioprospecting. My research examines who benefits from ocean industries and what drives inequalities in resource access and revenue distribution. I use statistical analyses to quantify these disparities and explore how environmental law and policy influence them.

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

Blue Economy, Ocean Equity, Environmental Law

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

The greatest influence on my academic and professional development has been my experience as a parent. Balancing an undergraduate degree while raising a child and transitioning into a master's program with a Kindergartener has been both challenging and rewarding. It has strengthened my time management and adaptability. Most importantly, through my son, I've developed an awareness of long-term sustainability and the importance of creating a more just and equitable world for future generations.

Beyond coursework and research, my participation in the 3MT was a particularly valuable experience. The contest challenged me to distill complex research into a compelling and accessible presentation, strengthening my science communication skills. This experience reinforced my ability to engage diverse audiences, an essential skill for advancing discussions on equity in ocean governance.

Have you been the recipient of any major or donor-funded awards? If so, please tell us which ones and a little about how the awards have impacted your studies and/or research

I am grateful to be the recipient of the NSERC-CGSM award, the McElhanney Women in STEM Scholarship, the Flight 302 Legacy Award, the SFU Alumni Scholarship, and the Dueck Autogroup President's Scholarship. Along with a graduate fellowship, this support has alleviated some of the financial pressures of studying and living in Vancouver, allowing me to focus on my research and academic growth.

Contact Helena:hdebus@sfu.ca

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