Sami Sugiarta
B.Sc. Student
sami.sugiarta@mail.mcgill.ca
About me
I'm an undergrad studying ecology1 at McGill University in Montreal, Canada. I am broadly interested in how we can operate responsibly within our broader environmental context. In particular, I'm interested in developing and using quantitative tools and approaches that can help us understand, conserve, and restore ecosystems.
I currently work as a research assistant in Dr. Brian Leung's lab, where I help build computational models of large-scale ecological phenomena to support decision making processes. Most recently, we have been developing an approach to better understand recent trends in global rates of biological invasions. This project builds upon work I did this past summer, which was generously funded by a Bieler Undergraduate Research Award. We are currently drafting a manuscript with collaboraters.
1. Officially, my major is the uselessly vaguely named Environment. My concentration is in Biodiversity & Conservation, which is much better, but also a mouthful. Alas, I study ecology.
Even more about me
In addition to my major, I am completing a computer science minor. I quite enjoy this side of my studies, as it gives me an opportunity to solve puzzles and create tangible things that I feel sometimes is lacking from my ecological focus. It also turns out to be a relatively valuable tool!Before McGill, I studied Music and Science at Vanier College. I studied electric bass in the jazz stream of the music program, and the so-called pure & applied science stream of the science program. I loved my time in CEGEP, and music remains an important part of my life. I even (very) occasionally play shows!
Outside of academics, a lot of my time is spent practicing a variety of sports. Hockey and soccer satisfy my team sport needs. Judo and occasionally brazilian jiu jitsu help me (involuntarily) train my flexibility. Last, though certainly not least, outdoor recreation keeps me sane. I also enjoy cooking and baking, especially for friends.