Our Council Members

Ryan is a first-year MASc student in Chemical Engineering. His research focuses on developing a comprehensive library of drug delivery vehicles designed for use in ocular therapy.

What do you like to do for fun?

I like to workout at the gym, go on hikes on the Hamilton trails, play sports (i.e. Badminton, squash, and ping-pong), and read.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I was drawn to the council because of its ability to be a voice for students aiming to pursue professional endeavours. I am grateful for the opportunity to represent Chemical Engineering students, helping them learn throughout their academic careers while being their representative in administrative matters.

Ryan is a first-year MASc student in Chemical Engineering. His research focuses on developing a comprehensive library of drug delivery vehicles designed for use in ocular therapy.

What do you like to do for fun?

I like to workout at the gym, go on hikes on the Hamilton trails, play sports (i.e. Badminton, squash, and ping-pong), and read.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I was drawn to the council because of its ability to be a voice for students aiming to pursue professional endeavours. I am grateful for the opportunity to represent Chemical Engineering students, helping them learn throughout their academic careers while being their representative in administrative matters.

Emma is a PhD Student in Chemical Engineering, with her research focused on solar reforming techniques for wastewater treatment and hydrogen production.

What do you like to do for fun?

Photography and videography.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

The inclusivity it offers to all graduate students regardless of their background and status.

Emma is a PhD Student in Chemical Engineering, with her research focused on solar reforming techniques for wastewater treatment and hydrogen production.

What do you like to do for fun?

Photography and videography.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

The inclusivity it offers to all graduate students regardless of their background and status.

Majdi is a PhD Candidate in Department of Civil Engineering at McMaster University. His research focuses on integrating machine learning and life cycle assessment to design durable, low-carbon concrete for sustainable infrastructure. He develops predictive models linking material composition, environmental exposure, and long-term performance to advance data-driven approaches for resilience and decarbonization in construction.

What do you like to do for fun?

I enjoy traveling and exploring new cities, especially those rich in architecture and culture. I also like photography, working out, and spending time outdoors. When I need to recharge, I often read about innovation, design, or personal growth, anything that helps me see the world from a new angle.

What drew you to EGS?

EGS offers a dynamic community that values both academic excellence and global collaboration. I was drawn to its emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, professional growth, and meaningful engagement beyond research. It’s the perfect environment to connect with passionate scholars and contribute to discussions shaping the future of engineering and sustainability.

Majdi is a PhD Candidate in Department of Civil Engineering at McMaster University. His research focuses on integrating machine learning and life cycle assessment to design durable, low-carbon concrete for sustainable infrastructure. He develops predictive models linking material composition, environmental exposure, and long-term performance to advance data-driven approaches for resilience and decarbonization in construction.

What do you like to do for fun?

I enjoy traveling and exploring new cities, especially those rich in architecture and culture. I also like photography, working out, and spending time outdoors. When I need to recharge, I often read about innovation, design, or personal growth, anything that helps me see the world from a new angle.

What drew you to EGS?

EGS offers a dynamic community that values both academic excellence and global collaboration. I was drawn to its emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, professional growth, and meaningful engagement beyond research. It’s the perfect environment to connect with passionate scholars and contribute to discussions shaping the future of engineering and sustainability.

Asim is a Ph.D. candidate in Civil Engineering specializing in sustainable asphalt pavements. His research focuses on applying uncertainty-aware probabilistic modeling and generative adversarial networks (GANs) to analyze the behavior of recycled asphalt shingles and reclaimed asphalt pavement, with the goal of optimizing the use of recycled materials for resilient and sustainable pavement design.

What do you like to do for fun?

I enjoy spending time with friends, exploring nature through hikes and outdoor activities. I also like watching TV series and playing games to relax.

What drew you to EGS?

I was drawn to the Engineering Graduate Society for its collaborative community and focus on professional growth. It offers opportunities to connect with peers, share knowledge, and engage in workshops and events that enhance research skills, leadership, and networking within the engineering graduate community.

Asim is a Ph.D. candidate in Civil Engineering specializing in sustainable asphalt pavements. His research focuses on applying uncertainty-aware probabilistic modeling and generative adversarial networks (GANs) to analyze the behavior of recycled asphalt shingles and reclaimed asphalt pavement, with the goal of optimizing the use of recycled materials for resilient and sustainable pavement design.

What do you like to do for fun?

I enjoy spending time with friends, exploring nature through hikes and outdoor activities. I also like watching TV series and playing games to relax.

What drew you to EGS?

I was drawn to the Engineering Graduate Society for its collaborative community and focus on professional growth. It offers opportunities to connect with peers, share knowledge, and engage in workshops and events that enhance research skills, leadership, and networking within the engineering graduate community.

Ashlyn is a PhD candidate in Civil Engineering, focusing on the spatial dependence of the Hurst phenomenon in Canadian climate and streamflow data. Her research aims to enhance resilience assessments for water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

What do you like to do for fun?

I enjoy staying active with hiking and biking, and I’m passionate about volunteering and community service. I also love spending quality time with friends and playing the violin.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I thrive on community and collaborating with peers to foster collective growth. EGS is the perfect place to continue that work by connecting with fellow students and contributing to our engineering graduate community.

Ashlyn is a PhD candidate in Civil Engineering, focusing on the spatial dependence of the Hurst phenomenon in Canadian climate and streamflow data. Her research aims to enhance resilience assessments for water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

What do you like to do for fun?

I enjoy staying active with hiking and biking, and I’m passionate about volunteering and community service. I also love spending quality time with friends and playing the violin.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I thrive on community and collaborating with peers to foster collective growth. EGS is the perfect place to continue that work by connecting with fellow students and contributing to our engineering graduate community.

Nancy is a PhD Candidate in the Department of Computing & Software, and her research work focuses on Resilient Distributed Systems.

What do you like to do for fun?

I usually hang out with my friends, read a book, or do coding for fun.

What drew you to EGS?
I am an Engineering student and have seen numerous emails from EGS organizing events and providing useful information. I was drawn to EGS to contribute to these events and serve for the benefit of Engineering students.

Nancy is a PhD Candidate in the Department of Computing & Software, and her research work focuses on Resilient Distributed Systems.

What do you like to do for fun?

I usually hang out with my friends, read a book, or do coding for fun.

What drew you to EGS?
I am an Engineering student and have seen numerous emails from EGS organizing events and providing useful information. I was drawn to EGS to contribute to these events and serve for the benefit of Engineering students.

What do you like to do for fun?

Chilling on the couch watching football, soccer, or F1.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I was involved in the undergrad version of the EGS and enjoyed it, so now that I’m a grad student, EGS was a natural fit for me.

What do you like to do for fun?

Chilling on the couch watching football, soccer, or F1.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I was involved in the undergrad version of the EGS and enjoyed it, so now that I’m a grad student, EGS was a natural fit for me.

What do you like to do for fun?

Fishing, going for walks, and doing a bit of coding outside of work.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I joined because I wanted to connect with peers beyond my department and help ensure graduate student voices are heard. For me, it’s about building community and making our experience here more supportive and fun.

What do you like to do for fun?

Fishing, going for walks, and doing a bit of coding outside of work.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I joined because I wanted to connect with peers beyond my department and help ensure graduate student voices are heard. For me, it’s about building community and making our experience here more supportive and fun.

Shawaiz is pursuing a Master of Engineering in Electrical and Computer Engineering. His main areas of interest include embedded systems, computer engineering, and applied electronics.

What do you like to do for fun?

For fun, I love going to the gym, exploring new restaurants, and spending time with friends. I enjoy photography, finding cozy spots around the city, and trying new experiences. I’m happiest doing things that spark creativity, bring good energy, and make great memories.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I was drawn to EGS because it creates a strong sense of community among graduate students. I love how it brings people together through events, support, and collaboration. It’s a welcoming space to meet new people, get involved, and make the graduate experience more engaging and enjoyable.

Shawaiz is pursuing a Master of Engineering in Electrical and Computer Engineering. His main areas of interest include embedded systems, computer engineering, and applied electronics.

What do you like to do for fun?

For fun, I love going to the gym, exploring new restaurants, and spending time with friends. I enjoy photography, finding cozy spots around the city, and trying new experiences. I’m happiest doing things that spark creativity, bring good energy, and make great memories.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I was drawn to EGS because it creates a strong sense of community among graduate students. I love how it brings people together through events, support, and collaboration. It’s a welcoming space to meet new people, get involved, and make the graduate experience more engaging and enjoyable.

Colby is a MASc student in Engineering Physics. His research focuses on developing a low-power nuclear reactor inspired by the Canadian SLOWPOKE-2 design, aimed at providing reliable electricity for research facilities and remote communities. He is investigating alternative coolant systems and power-conversion methods, using advanced simulation tools to evaluate the reactor’s overall feasibility and performance.

What do you like to do for fun?

I love to play all different types of sports with friends. I’m currently in the intramural basketball league at Mac and hope to join an MMA league soon. I also enjoy long-distance running, having just recently finished my first half-marathon.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I would love to give back to my graduate student community and contribute to my department in any way possible. Building on my leadership experiences from my undergraduate studies at the University of New Brunswick (UNB), I hope to bring these experiences to enrich the graduate student life here at Mac.

Colby is a MASc student in Engineering Physics. His research focuses on developing a low-power nuclear reactor inspired by the Canadian SLOWPOKE-2 design, aimed at providing reliable electricity for research facilities and remote communities. He is investigating alternative coolant systems and power-conversion methods, using advanced simulation tools to evaluate the reactor’s overall feasibility and performance.

What do you like to do for fun?

I love to play all different types of sports with friends. I’m currently in the intramural basketball league at Mac and hope to join an MMA league soon. I also enjoy long-distance running, having just recently finished my first half-marathon.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I would love to give back to my graduate student community and contribute to my department in any way possible. Building on my leadership experiences from my undergraduate studies at the University of New Brunswick (UNB), I hope to bring these experiences to enrich the graduate student life here at Mac.

Dorian is an MASc. student focusing on neutronics and reactor physics.

What do you like to do for fun?

Outside I like going for walks, rollerblading and spike ball when the weather allows it, and also a bit of rock climbing. Inside though I play a lot of Dungeons and Dragons, with friends as well as various video games

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I’m interested in taking the skills I’ve learned through my undergrad and various work positions and applying what I know to a leadership position as well as learning how to more effectively navigate such positions, and see what I can learn from this role.

Dorian is an MASc. student focusing on neutronics and reactor physics.

What do you like to do for fun?

Outside I like going for walks, rollerblading and spike ball when the weather allows it, and also a bit of rock climbing. Inside though I play a lot of Dungeons and Dragons, with friends as well as various video games

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I’m interested in taking the skills I’ve learned through my undergrad and various work positions and applying what I know to a leadership position as well as learning how to more effectively navigate such positions, and see what I can learn from this role.

What do you like to do for fun?

I like to going out to natural conservative park and hiking to enjoy the fresh air.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

Want to contribute for communication between material department with the council and get involved in the events.

What do you like to do for fun?

I like to going out to natural conservative park and hiking to enjoy the fresh air.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

Want to contribute for communication between material department with the council and get involved in the events.

Amjad Ali is a Ph.D. student in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. His research focuses on thin film deposition using both experimental and computational approaches. He primarily investigates diamond-like carbon films, emphasizing their optical and tribological properties for advanced material applications.

What do you like to do for fun?

I enjoy spending time in nature, hiking, and traveling to explore new landscapes and cultures. I value experiences that inspire creativity and reflection.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I was drawn to the Engineering Graduate Society for its strong sense of community and commitment to representing graduate student voices. EGS provides meaningful opportunities for leadership, collaboration, and professional development, while creating a supportive environment where students can connect, share experiences, and contribute to positive change within the department.

Amjad Ali is a Ph.D. student in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. His research focuses on thin film deposition using both experimental and computational approaches. He primarily investigates diamond-like carbon films, emphasizing their optical and tribological properties for advanced material applications.

What do you like to do for fun?

I enjoy spending time in nature, hiking, and traveling to explore new landscapes and cultures. I value experiences that inspire creativity and reflection.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I was drawn to the Engineering Graduate Society for its strong sense of community and commitment to representing graduate student voices. EGS provides meaningful opportunities for leadership, collaboration, and professional development, while creating a supportive environment where students can connect, share experiences, and contribute to positive change within the department.

Brittny is pursuing a MASc in Materials Science & Engineering, focusing on the impact of internal oxidation on liquid metal embrittlement in advanced high-strength steels.

What do you like to do for fun?

Anything and everything, although currently I am more interested in knitting, learning languages, going on walks, and looking for slugs.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I was involved in similar organizations as an undergraduate student at my alma mater and wanted to continue helping make positive changes with the EGS.

Brittny is pursuing a MASc in Materials Science & Engineering, focusing on the impact of internal oxidation on liquid metal embrittlement in advanced high-strength steels.

What do you like to do for fun?

Anything and everything, although currently I am more interested in knitting, learning languages, going on walks, and looking for slugs.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I was involved in similar organizations as an undergraduate student at my alma mater and wanted to continue helping make positive changes with the EGS.

Mohammad is a PhD candidate in Mechanical Engineering, focusing on the development of biomass-derived carbon electrodes for supercapacitors. His research aims to enhance electrode performance through composite optimization and the integration of advanced materials such as graphene and MXene. Additionally, he leverages physics-informed neural networks to incorporate physicochemical electrode parameters into electrochemical models, enabling the creation of robust and predictive simulations of electrochemical behaviour.

What do you like to do for fun?

For fun, I play table tennis, tennis, and squash, and I like biking and hiking. I enjoy movies from all genres, and I also like writing adapted screenplays. I am interested in discovering new music artists, especially hip hop and R&B.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I joined EGS because I care about improving the graduate student experience at McMaster. I want to support students, communicate their needs, and take on practical challenges in research life, funding, and mental health while building a stronger community.

Mohammad is a PhD candidate in Mechanical Engineering, focusing on the development of biomass-derived carbon electrodes for supercapacitors. His research aims to enhance electrode performance through composite optimization and the integration of advanced materials such as graphene and MXene. Additionally, he leverages physics-informed neural networks to incorporate physicochemical electrode parameters into electrochemical models, enabling the creation of robust and predictive simulations of electrochemical behaviour.

What do you like to do for fun?

For fun, I play table tennis, tennis, and squash, and I like biking and hiking. I enjoy movies from all genres, and I also like writing adapted screenplays. I am interested in discovering new music artists, especially hip hop and R&B.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I joined EGS because I care about improving the graduate student experience at McMaster. I want to support students, communicate their needs, and take on practical challenges in research life, funding, and mental health while building a stronger community.

Zeeshan is pursuing a PhD in Mechanical Engineering. His research focuses on the thermochemical conversion of biomass into bioenergy, with a particular emphasis on hydrogen production through steam gasification of hydrochar, integrated with data-driven modeling and process optimization techniques.

What do you like to do for fun?

I enjoy playing cricket and spending quality time with friends.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I was drawn to the Engineering Graduate Society because it brings graduate students together to learn, connect, and grow. I appreciate its focus on collaboration, professional development, and community building, and I look forward to contributing to events and initiatives that strengthen the graduate student experience.

Zeeshan is pursuing a PhD in Mechanical Engineering. His research focuses on the thermochemical conversion of biomass into bioenergy, with a particular emphasis on hydrogen production through steam gasification of hydrochar, integrated with data-driven modeling and process optimization techniques.

What do you like to do for fun?

I enjoy playing cricket and spending quality time with friends.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I was drawn to the Engineering Graduate Society because it brings graduate students together to learn, connect, and grow. I appreciate its focus on collaboration, professional development, and community building, and I look forward to contributing to events and initiatives that strengthen the graduate student experience.

What do you like to do for fun?

I enjoy connecting with people, exploring new places, and sharing ideas that spark curiosity and laughter. I love to dance and cook.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I was drawn to the Council for its role in building community, amplifying graduate student voices, and creating opportunities for meaningful collaboration and positive change. I am interested in making the voice of my department heard.

What do you like to do for fun?

I enjoy connecting with people, exploring new places, and sharing ideas that spark curiosity and laughter. I love to dance and cook.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I was drawn to the Council for its role in building community, amplifying graduate student voices, and creating opportunities for meaningful collaboration and positive change. I am interested in making the voice of my department heard.

Hardiv is a MASc student in Biomedical Engineering. His research focuses on the development of a FRET-based biosensor for bacterial detection and the design of a point-of-care device for FRET signal measurement.

What do you like to do for fun?

Playing sports such as cricket, golf, badminton, volleyball, softball, basketball. I like to do photography and photo editing. I also make 3D metal models

What drew you to EGS?

I strongly believe that students should be an active part of improving the graduate student community. I value creating a space where students can share their concerns and wishes and can feel heard in that regard.

Hardiv is a MASc student in Biomedical Engineering. His research focuses on the development of a FRET-based biosensor for bacterial detection and the design of a point-of-care device for FRET signal measurement.

What do you like to do for fun?

Playing sports such as cricket, golf, badminton, volleyball, softball, basketball. I like to do photography and photo editing. I also make 3D metal models

What drew you to EGS?

I strongly believe that students should be an active part of improving the graduate student community. I value creating a space where students can share their concerns and wishes and can feel heard in that regard.

Joanna is a MASc student in Biomedical Engineering, specializing in optical sensing and nanotechnology. Her research focuses on developing advanced optical sensing devices for real-time food-spoilage detection to help reduce waste and prevent foodborne illness. She is also committed to exploring innovative technological solutions that advance women’s health.

What do you like to do for fun?

I love exploring new cafés, traveling when I can, and spending time with my family and friends. I enjoy swimming, going out, and discovering new places. I also like reading about women’s health innovations and working on small side projects whenever I feel inspired.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I joined EGS because I enjoy being part of a supportive student community. I like helping other graduate students, organizing events, and contributing to a positive environment in the Faculty of Engineering. It’s a great way to get involved and make grad school feel more connected, and I’m also passionate about guiding students who feel unsure about their path and helping them find clarity and confidence.

Joanna is a MASc student in Biomedical Engineering, specializing in optical sensing and nanotechnology. Her research focuses on developing advanced optical sensing devices for real-time food-spoilage detection to help reduce waste and prevent foodborne illness. She is also committed to exploring innovative technological solutions that advance women’s health.

What do you like to do for fun?

I love exploring new cafés, traveling when I can, and spending time with my family and friends. I enjoy swimming, going out, and discovering new places. I also like reading about women’s health innovations and working on small side projects whenever I feel inspired.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I joined EGS because I enjoy being part of a supportive student community. I like helping other graduate students, organizing events, and contributing to a positive environment in the Faculty of Engineering. It’s a great way to get involved and make grad school feel more connected, and I’m also passionate about guiding students who feel unsure about their path and helping them find clarity and confidence.

Kenil is currently pursuing a Master of Engineering in Systems and Technology. His primary area of interest lies in the field of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, with a particular focus on developing automated systems that leverage AI for practical and impactful real-world applications.

What do you like to do for fun?
For fun, I enjoy watching movies, going for walks, swimming, and occasionally trekking. I am also a big foodie, always eager to try new restaurants and culinary experiences.

What drew you to EGS?
EGS is known for its excellent work and fun events. I was drawn by the opportunity to reach out to the maximum number of students, get to know them better, and significantly improve my event organization and leadership skills.

Kenil is currently pursuing a Master of Engineering in Systems and Technology. His primary area of interest lies in the field of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, with a particular focus on developing automated systems that leverage AI for practical and impactful real-world applications.

What do you like to do for fun?
For fun, I enjoy watching movies, going for walks, swimming, and occasionally trekking. I am also a big foodie, always eager to try new restaurants and culinary experiences.

What drew you to EGS?
EGS is known for its excellent work and fun events. I was drawn by the opportunity to reach out to the maximum number of students, get to know them better, and significantly improve my event organization and leadership skills.

Khalaf is a Master of Engineering student specializing in Manufacturing Engineering at the W. Booth School of Engineering Practice and Technology (SEPT).

What do you like to do for fun?

Rock climbing and video games.

What drew you to EGS?

I desired to create opportunities for our engineering graduates by strengthening our connections with industry partners and academic groups through networking events, career development workshops or collaborative projects. After transferring my area of research and course path, I wished to advocate for an easier bureaucratic process in the administrative offices.

Khalaf is a Master of Engineering student specializing in Manufacturing Engineering at the W. Booth School of Engineering Practice and Technology (SEPT).

What do you like to do for fun?

Rock climbing and video games.

What drew you to EGS?

I desired to create opportunities for our engineering graduates by strengthening our connections with industry partners and academic groups through networking events, career development workshops or collaborative projects. After transferring my area of research and course path, I wished to advocate for an easier bureaucratic process in the administrative offices.

Savan is currently pursuing a Master of Engineering in Systems and Technology (MEST), specializing in Automation and Smart Systems.

What do you like to do for fun?

For fun, I love engaging in quizzes and current affairs debates that challenge my knowledge and thinking. I also enjoy physical activities like hiking and cycling, which keep me active and refreshed. Exploring new experiences and learning through both mental and physical pursuits truly excites me.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I’m motivated to join your engineering team because it offers the perfect environment to innovate, collaborate, and solve real-world challenges. I’m eager to apply my technical skills, learn from experienced professionals, and contribute to impactful projects that drive progress, efficiency, and continuous improvement within the organization.

Savan is currently pursuing a Master of Engineering in Systems and Technology (MEST), specializing in Automation and Smart Systems.

What do you like to do for fun?

For fun, I love engaging in quizzes and current affairs debates that challenge my knowledge and thinking. I also enjoy physical activities like hiking and cycling, which keep me active and refreshed. Exploring new experiences and learning through both mental and physical pursuits truly excites me.

What drew you to the EGS Council?

I’m motivated to join your engineering team because it offers the perfect environment to innovate, collaborate, and solve real-world challenges. I’m eager to apply my technical skills, learn from experienced professionals, and contribute to impactful projects that drive progress, efficiency, and continuous improvement within the organization.