Engineering & Technology, People, Research, Student Profile

Parisa Najmi aims to preserve Earth’s health and wellbeing

Engineering doctoral student's research focuses on conserving valuable metals and reducing pollution from corrosion inhibitors

March 6, 2023

What is your PhD focus? What inspires you about this subject?

As a doctoral student, I’m dedicated to studying metallic corrosion. This widespread phenomenon has posed a persistent threat to the structural stability of materials since the advent of human civilization, resulting in a staggering annual cost of over $5 trillion globally.

In addition to its economic impact, corrosion has led to many structural failures that have resulted in serious consequences for human health, safety and the environment. Defining the costs associated with corrosion-related concerns is often challenging. That’s why it’s essential to take proactive corrosion measures to ensure safety and minimize environmental pollution.

My research focuses on creating cutting-edge nanomaterials with a dual objective of reducing corrosion rates and enabling non-destructive corrosion monitoring. By leveraging my expertise in the field, I aim to address the corrosion problem, improve the durability and longevity of metallic materials, and benefit a variety of industries and communities.

I’m deeply passionate about leaving a lasting impact on society and the environment. What excites me about my area of study is its potential to conserve our planet by preserving valuable metals and reducing corrosion inhibitors that also pollute. By combining education and action, we can preserve the health and wellbeing of our planet for future generations.

Is there a professor or staff member at UBCO who has positively impacted you?

One year ago, I embarked on a journey to Canada, marking my first time in an English-speaking environment and away from the comfort of my family and homeland. The change was challenging at first; I felt like a stranger in a strange land. However, my supervisor, Dr. Mohammad Arjmand, showed me that with hard work and determination, nothing is impossible. He challenged me to broaden my horizons and think beyond my limitations, and I’m grateful for his guidance and support.

How do you balance school and home life?

I’m a dedicated scholar. I devote a substantial amount of my time to my academic pursuits. But I don’t neglect the other things that are important to me. Besides my academic commitments, I play in the Kelowna Women’s Basketball League, as well as the intramural leagues offered by UBCO. I also go to the gym four times a week to maintain physical fitness.

These activities serve as a wonderful reprieve from the demands of my studies, allowing me to recharge and continue my work with renewed energy and focus.

What do you think makes UBCO great?

UBC is recognized globally for its top-notch faculty members and cutting-edge research infrastructure. I’m in an ideal environment for my research, finding a balance of intellectual stimulation and practical application. Our laboratory work is directed towards creating impactful, industrially relevant solutions, which demonstrate the applicability of our research to real-world problems.

What do you see yourself doing 10 years from now?

From a young age, I always dreamed of becoming a scientist. My passion for knowledge drives me towards becoming a highly regarded professor, where I can impart my expertise to future generations. I’m fully committed to this vision, and within the next decade I aim to be among the leading lights in my field. I’m confident I’ll have a lasting influence.