Erin Fairley

Geography | master's degree| Faculty of Environment

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

I grew up in a family that was very passionate about the outdoors, and we loved camping, fishing, and spending time at freshwater lakes and rivers around California.
After changing my mind a few times in undergrad, I found my place studying Environmental Science; a field that I not only have a personal connection to, but one that I'm also proud to pursue. While working for the State of California in the surface water division, my passion grew even more for work in creeks. I reviewed a wide variety of projects, but I was always drawn to the smaller creek sites, working with homeowners to blend infrastructure stability and environmental restoration goals.

Through this, I found fluvial geomorphology, where I am now focusing on the way rivers shape, and are shaped by, their surrounding landscapes and communities. I hope to apply this holistic understanding of landscapes to community-focused river work that supports both ecosystems and the people who depend on them.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

Vancouver, BC has access to some of the greatest outdoors in the world, including the Fraser River! Through my research lab under amazing supervisor support, my research is heavily influenced by this river. The Fraser represents a system very different from those I've worked on in the past, creating a unique opportunity to broaden my knowledge of river processes. The interdisciplinary nature of the Geography Department here has also exposed me to many other types of research and connections, for which I'm very grateful.

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

I study the way rivers move through landscapes, and the way the two continuously shape one another.

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

Rivers, Constrictions, Sediment

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

My coursework, which has covered sediment transport, morphodynamics, and research strategies, has given me strong foundational skills. I've been able to apply these skills everyday as part of my RA work, using data analysis and experimental design to structure my thesis.
My TA-ship was a very valuable experience, especially for strengthening my communication skills. Teaching for an introductory course prepared me for communicating research to a wide range of audiences.

This also leads to my 3MT experience. As part of a course, I prepared a 3-minute thesis speech that bolstered my public speaking experience. I participated in the competition the following year and got second place for my Department. Again, this has helped me learn how to communicate sophisticated research results to a broad audience.

Contact: enf2@sfu.ca

ADDITIONAL LINKS

• LinkedIn