Eric’s research involved collecting and analyzing electromagnetic data to uncover why certain areas of the Canadian Shield are endowed with metals while others are not. As the only researcher working on his specific data subset within a collaborative environment of graduate students and faculty, Eric found both challenge and camaraderie.
“Working on such a large scale project was really interesting because while I was very much working on my portion of the project, I also got the opportunity to network and collaborate with other geologists, supporting them with their data and work,” Eric recalls.
The COVID-19 pandemic introduced significant obstacles, causing disruptions in research and shifting the academic landscape to remote learning. While many colleagues faced challenges in sample and data collection, Eric’s was completed in the Canadian Shield across Ontario and Quebec during the summer of 2018. Having already collected his data, he was in a much better position than many others when the pandemic started. He had what he needed to continue working on his project. However, he recalls that the isolation of remote work took its toll, presenting new hurdles to overcome as technology and virtual collaboration quickly developed to adapt to the needs of the world.
Throughout the project, Eric was able to refine his research skills and engage in collaborative writing projects, including a four-month research trip to Prague. This experience allowed him to present his findings on a global stage, further enhancing the visibility of the Metal Earth initiative.
“My PhD took almost seven years and it was a journey that really taught me a lot about myself and pushed me to grow in many ways. I’m grateful for the lasting connections I made along the way and everything that I am taking away from this experience. I’m looking forward to my future in geophysics.”
As graduation approaches, Eric is reflecting on his personal and academic growth. The pandemic was a significant marker in the middle of this journey and when it started Eric left Sudbury for Ottawa to be close to family. Now fully rooted in Ottawa, he looks forward to finding a local or remote opportunity that aligns with his research background.