Chemistry - University of Toronto

Selected Alumni

• 

  Cora Young, Ph.D. (2009) is currently an Assistant Professor and Guy Warwick Rogers Chair in Chemistry at York University

  Cora graduated with a PhD in environmental chemistry under the supervision of Scott Mabury. At U of T, her research focused on the atmospheric chemistry of polyfluorinated compounds and their role as long-lived greenhouse gases. In September 2012 she began her position as an assistant professor at Memorial University of Newfounland. Her experience at U of T helped her develop the research and communication skills needed to succeed in academia. Dr. Young speaks fondly about her experience at U of T: "...what stands out to me about my graduate experience was my interaction with faculty and other students". According to her, the program attracts excellent people and fosters a collaborative environmental. Cora initially decided to study environmental chemistry at U of T because of the "the collegial atmosphere and high caliber of research". Keep up to date with Cora's current research here!

• 

  Nick Battram, MSc. (2013) is currently a Laboratory Analyst with Maxxam Analytics

  Nick successfully completed his MSc. in 2013. He worked under the guidance of Myrna Simpson to characterize organic matter in sediments. Before graduation, Nick accepted a position at Maxxam Analytics where he now analyzes volatile organic compounds in air samples with similar methodology he used during his MSc work. Aside from these hard skills, graduate school helped him develop essential soft skills, particularly communication and time management. He also highlights the sense of community in environmental chemistry. "I think one of the most prominent highlights of grad schools were the people", says Battram. "I went on the Tremblant ski trip twice, the formal, the holiday party, and it was all such a great time." He says the program was a perfect match for him, and that U of T is one of the few schools in Canada that offers such a unique and rewarding experience.

• 

  Raluca Ellis, Ph.D. (2011) is currently an Environmental Science and Senior Program Manager at The Franklin Institute of Science Museum

  Raluca completed her Ph.D. under the supervision of Jennifer Murphy. Her thesis focused on how emissions and transformations of ammonia can impact regional air quality. She has transitioned from research to her current position at The Franklin Institute of Science Museum where she provides support for programs and exhibits that have an environmental focus. In addition, Raluca is currently managing a five-year project focused on engaging urban residents about climate change science. She fostered her love of science communication at U of T by running science workshops and co-ordinating outreach activities for highschool students. "There was a supportive community to explore my interests beyond the research", she explains. "In addition to being brilliant, the faculty is very approachable, and are deeply invested in their students." Raluca was drawn to U of T by the high profile and exciting research and appreciates the opportunities she had during her graduate experience.

Alumni

Abbatt Group:

Donaldson Group:

Mabury Group:

Murphy Group:

A. Simpson Group:

M. Simpson Group:

Wania Group: