Join the GIWS SYR Executive!
Want to help shape the water research community at USask? Looking to build leadership skills, make connections, and contribute to an inclusive research community?
The GIWS Students & Young Researchers (GIWS SYR) Executive is now accepting applications!
Who Can Apply?
If you’re a GIWS-SYR member and part of the USask water community, we’d love to hear from you! All USask undergraduate students, graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, early-career researchers, technicians, and staff are eligible.
Not a GIWS-SYR member yet? Sign up now!
How to Apply
Submit the following by May 8, 2026, in an email to Stacey Dumanski:
- Statement of Purpose (max. 1 page), including which role(s) interest you, why you’re excited about them, and why you’d be a great fit.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Supervisor Letter of Recommendation (max. 1 page)
How Applications Are Reviewed
Applications are assessed by the GIWS Executive Committee using the following criteria: statement of purpose (50%), extracurricular activities and past experience (25%), and supervisor recommendation (25%).
Selected candidates will be announced by the end of May, with summer activities supporting a smooth transition into executive roles.
Our Values:
As an extension of the Institute, the GIWS SYR Executive upholds values of inclusivity, respect, reciprocity, transparency, accountability, excellence, and sustainability.
Ready to make an impact? Apply and be part of the GIWS SYR Executive!
The GIWS–Students and Young Researchers is a student-led organization with the overarching objective of cultivating an inclusive and unified water community of young professionals who collectively strive for growth and shared learning experiences.
By uniting the leadership and passions of our team, we are dedicated to creating opportunities and championing five key pillars of our organization: knowledge mobilization, equity, diversity and inclusion, community engagement, advocacy for student well-being, and showcasing the remarkable water research of our peers!
Be sure to keep up to date with opportunities, news, and events by following us on social media!
GIWS-SYR Strategy
Click below to read the strategy for the Global Institute for Water Security (GIWS) Students, Young professionals, and Researchers (GIWS-SYR) group. The aim is to coordinate efforts among all young professionals within GIWS, including undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, early career researchers, technicians, and staff.
Upcoming Events
Past Events - Academic year
Meet the Team!
Krishna Kolen
krishna.kolen@usask.ca
PhD Candidate - Geography and Planning
Role: President
Krishna's research focus looks at drought-induced poor air quality and its impacts on human health, coping, and adaptation in Saskatchewan. She is passionate about understanding the links between our changing environments, human health, and behaviour.
Arezou Abyaneh
arezou.abyaneh@hotmail.com
Master's student - Water Security Program
Role: Vice President/ Treasurer
Arezou is a master's student at the University of Saskatchewan. She has research experience in the removal of micropollutants by conventional water treatment processes. With a passion for learning and adaptability, she thrives in new challenges and environments.
Sam Behle
samlucy.behle@usask.ca
PhD Candidate - Aaquatic Invasion Ecology
Role: Events Coordinator
Sam Lucy is a PhD student at the Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), a visiting student at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) and a member of GIWS. Her research focuses on aquatic invasive species, specifically the spiny water flea (Bythotrephes cederströmii). She analyses its ongoing spread from temperate to boreal lakes and its impact on the aquatic food webs.
Hamed Abbasnezhad
hamed.abbasnezhad@usask.ca
Research Assistant
Role: Secretary
Hamed is a Research Assistant at the University of Saskatchewan and a member of the Global Institute for Water Security. His research focuses on the numerical modeling of groundwater and surface water as well as saltwater intrusion and soil salinization. In his current work, he investigates the influence of climate variables on the spatial and temporal distribution of salt within soil profile. His work aims to enhance understanding of salinization risks under changing environmental conditions and support the development of sustainable water and land management strategies. As SYR he also brings his joy and wonderful spirit to build community.
GIWS-SYR Executive Roles
Leads the GIWS‑SYR Executive and serves as the main liaison with the GIWS Executive. Represents GIWS‑SYR at meetings and events, chairs GIWS‑SYR meetings, supports Institute‑wide activities, and oversees annual reporting and communication with GIWS leadership.
Manages GIWS‑SYR finances, budgets, and financial reporting, and liaises with the GIWS Finance Officer. Supports and assists with professional development activities and event promotion, and assumes the President’s role when needed.
Supports GIWS‑SYR operations by organizing meetings, taking minutes, managing communications and social media, and coordinating website updates. Shares student achievements, assists with reporting, and contributes to special projects (e.g., EDI).
Plans and delivers GIWS‑SYR social, volunteer, and professional development activities. Supports Water Fridays and major GIWS events, and works closely with the Executive on joint initiatives, major events (World Water Day, Holiday Party, etc.) and special projects.
2024 Events - Academic year
This fun event brought together students from different fields and associations to celebrated the spooky season!
