Graduate Students

My name is Zhangyihua (Claire) Deng, and I completed my undergraduate degree in Agro-Environmental Sciences at McGill University. I have lots of field experience working with vegetable and cash crops, which helped me develop a practical understanding of plant growth, soil conditions, and agricultural systems. My current research focuses on the design, implementation, and monitoring of vegetated green infrastructure for wastewater treatment in cold-climate environments. The project aims to optimize nature-based treatment systems for removing wastewater contaminants, including pathogens, nutrients, and metals. Outside of research, Claire enjoys cooking and spending time with her cat. 

My name is Yudong Zhang (Derrick), and I completed my Honours BSc in Biotechnology at Queen's University in Kingston. Through my undergraduate research and internship experiences, I have developed a solid foundation in controlled-environment plant cultivation, hydroponic and vertical farming systems, soil remediation, and a range of analytical and molecular techniques. My current MSc research focuses on the design and optimization of vegetated biofilters for wastewater treatment in Arctic environments, with a particular emphasis on substrate optimization and real-time control (RTC). Beyond this project, I am broadly interested in saline-alkali soil improvement and agricultural biotechnology. Outside of research, I enjoy cooking, reading, and swimming.

My name is Nicholas, and I am a Master of Environmental Sciences student at the University of Guelph. My major research project, conducted in collaboration with Dr. Liao and an industry partner, involves evaluating the growth of various sedum species and native plants on green roofs amended with biochar. In addition to monitoring plant growth, we also examine the quality of discharge water from the green roof systems. Outside of his research, I enjoy spending time outdoors through activities such as camping, canoeing, and hiking. I also play soccer once a week.