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Varshaa Kumaran
Research topic
Comparative study of gravity & passive gravity driven membrane systems with biofilm characterization in drinking water treatment
Faculty
Research supervisor(s)
Home Town
Chennai
Country
India
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
The moment I stepped into a corporate office as an intern during my undergrad. I knew I didn't belong there. I wanted to do something dynamic and versatile. So I choose to do a master's in Environmental Engineering. I always loved connecting with nature and the environment, and my research field "water" allows me to understand the beautiful intricacies of our world.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
A place of mind- Vancouver- a place where the sea meets the sky and the mountains, need I say more? Also, I love the peaceful chaos that the city offers. It is just the right mix of vibrant city life and calm nature for me. I love the diverse community at UBC and the research freedom that I get.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
I like the multidisciplinary research opportunities that students are exposed to. I also like the importance of a research thesis in my master's.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
I am genuinely surprised by how big the campus is. Even after spending literally every day of my life for two years at UBC, I will most likely still get lost somewhere on campus. I am also surprised by the active lifestyle of the community here, it motivates me to be in shape.
Vancouver - a place where the sea meets the sky and the mountains, need I say more? Also, I love the peaceful chaos that the city offers. It is just the right mix of vibrant city life and calm nature for me. I love the diverse community at UBC and the research freedom that I get.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
Being curious about things and not afraid to leave my comfort zone and get outside. In a tangible sense, my internship during my third year of undergrad.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I love cooking and swimming.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Don't fret too much about planning your future or worrying about what's next, go ahead and just do it! I am sure you will not regret it.
Learn more about Varshaa's research
Thousands of drinking water advisories are issued in Canada every year and 90% of which are issued to First Nations communities, indicating an inevitable need for simple, efficient, cost-effective drinking water treatment technology. Gravity-driven membrane filtration system (GDMF) is a promising solution as low-cost and energy-efficient technology. My study focuses on characterizing the biofilm growth in PGDMF (passive gravity-driven membrane filtration) system compared to the GDMF system, focusing on microbial composition and its contribution to flux stabilization and organics removal.