Originally from Bangladesh, Ahmed arrived in Canada in 2021 to pursue his MSc at Western after completing a BSc in Geography and Environment. Immersing himself in Western’s collaborative research environment, he quickly discovered the value of learning across disciplines. “The faculty’s interdisciplinary approach has significantly enriched my learning experience in multiple ways,” he shares. “Having access to professors and researchers from diverse academic backgrounds has enabled me to view complex urban and environmental issues from multiple dimensions.”

This interdisciplinary foundation is central to Ahmed’s research, which focuses on resilient transportation planning under climate change. By integrating large-scale transport simulations, hyperlocal microclimate modelling, and thermal comfort data, he works to identify areas affected by urban heat and understand how these thermal constraints shape people’s accessibility. “My research bridges the technical, environmental, and social dimensions of urban mobility, and I am truly grateful for the continued support and encouragement I have received from the faculty and the department.”

Throughout his academic journey, Ahmed has contributed to several impactful research projects. During his MSc, he worked closely with his supervisor, Dr. Jinhyung Lee, on funded projects examining how extreme weather affects public transit accessibility. “This experience deepened my understanding of how climate resilience and transportation equity intersect,” he explains.

His academic portfolio also includes a national collaboration with Parks Canada to support inclusive transit planning for proposed National Urban Parks in 15 Canadian cities. Additionally, through his work on the ParkSeek Project led by Dr. Jason Gilliland, Ahmed contributed to a comprehensive national database of parks and recreation facilities. He further expanded his analytical skills at Western Space with Dr. Jinfei Wang, developing web-based tools that detect methane gas leaks using remote sensing and geospatial analytics.

Currently, Ahmed is part of an SSHRC Insight Grant project led by Dr. Lee that examines how urban heat affects accessibility to essential services. “Through these experiences, I have learned the importance of collaboration, interdisciplinarity, and policy relevance in academic research.”

Mentorship has been a defining pillar of Ahmed’s graduate experience. “My supervisor, Dr. Lee, has played a pivotal role in helping me define and refine my career goals,” he says. He also highlights the guidance of his co-supervisor, Dr. Jinfei Wang, and the support of faculty members such as Dr. Godwin Arku, Dr. James Voogt, and Dr. Jed Long. Their expertise, he notes, has strengthened both his technical skills and his confidence as an emerging scholar.

Ahmed also credits the department’s strong academic advising structure, graduate mentorship programs, workshops, research funding opportunities, and networking events with supporting his academic and professional growth.

Among his accomplishments, one stands out: “Being awarded the NSERC Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship is one of my proudest achievements. It’s an honour and a motivation to continue contributing to impactful research on climate-resilient and equitable urban mobility.”

Celebrate Naser Ahmed’s inspiring journey with us as we continue to spotlight students who are pushing boundaries, strengthening research, and shaping a more sustainable future. Stay tuned for more stories in our series and discover the extraordinary work happening across our community.