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
2025 Events - Academic year
2024 Events - Academic year
This fun event brought together students from different fields and associations to celebrated the spooky season!
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 -
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.