Kaia Turchio
Kaia is a 4th year Space Engineering student at the Lassonde School of Engineering and is completing her technology entrepreneurship certification with of Canada’s top law and business schools. Her passion in her studies has brought her to pursue engineering and space related projects with her most recent participation in SEDS CAN-RGX with McMaster University. Aside from engineering, she applies her entrepreneurial skills by competing in tech startup competitions.
Kaia is the conference lead for SEDS Canadian Space Conference and aims to support the vision of SEDS by inspiring students like herself to become innovators in Canada’s space sector. Her background in hosting events for Lassonde Engineering Society has led her to taking on this role, allowing her to give back to a massive community that she has been involved in since the beginning of her studies.
Aside from her education and volunteer work, Kaia enjoys rock climbing, hiking, swimming and writing. She is always on the go and reaching for the stars!
Julia is a Physics and Astrophysics student at the University of Toronto Scarborough. She is the Women of SEDS National Lead. Julia is passionate about particle astrophysics, and has worked at SNOLAB for 2 summers in a row now!
Srikruti Davuluri Rajeswari is a Physics and Astronomy student at York University. She has contributed to research in aerospace simulation and multidisciplinary design optimisation through the Mixed-Reality Immersive Motion Simulation (MIMS) Lab at TMU, while also conducting research on fairness and bias in artificial intelligence applications through York University’s STEAM 2026 Indicium Research Program. Beyond academia, Srikruti has held leadership roles in several student organisations, including serving as Director of Outreach for the University of Toronto Student Research Initiative and Vice President of Corporate Relations for the Metropolitan Engineering Competition.
As Sponsorships Lead at SEDS-Canada, Srikruti is responsible for building partnerships with industry organisations and supporting initiatives that advance student engagement in the Canadian space sector. She is passionate about space exploration, aerospace innovation, and emerging technologies, with interests spanning spacecraft systems, robotics, artificial intelligence, and scientific research. In her free time, she enjoys participating in engineering design competitions, rocketry projects, and outreach activities that inspire the next generation of STEM students.
Ritambhara is a Health Sciences student at Queen’s University with a strong interest in space health research and contributing to the space community in different ways. As the Sponsorship Lead for the Canadian Space Conference, she reaches out to potential sponsors, talks with them about being part of the event, and helps wherever she can during the planning process. She has attended SEDS conferences for several years and recently took on the same role for the wSEDS Inaugural Conference. She’s keen to keep learning, meet new people, and take on opportunities that challenge her to grow both personally and professionally.
Navreet is a Mechanical Engineering student at the University of Calgary with a strong interest in aerospace and robotics, and how these fields intersect with innovation and space technology. She currently serves as the Speakers Lead for wSEDS, where she is responsible for coordinating speaker events, engaging industry professionals, and creating opportunities for students to learn from experts across the space sector. Navreet has been involved in various engineering design teams, leadership roles, and outreach initiatives, which have strengthened her passion for collaboration and knowledge-sharing. She was inspired to join SEDS Canada to further explore her interests in aerospace and robotics while contributing to a community dedicated to making the space industry more accessible to students. Outside of academics, Navreet enjoys working on creative projects, mentoring students, art and reading.
Maëlle Mathieu is a Master’s student at Polytechnique Montréal, following an undergraduate degree in Aerospace Engineering. She became involved with SEDS-Canada in 2023, when she helped organize the SEDS-Canada Space Conference in collaboration with Polyorbite, where she also served as CubeSat Project Director. Through this experience, she further developed her interest in satellites and space technologies as well as large-scale event coordination. Now continuing her involvement with SEDS-Canada, Maëlle is part of the team organizing the Women in Space Conference, where she serves as Logistics Lead, supporting planning, coordination, and on-site operations to help ensure a successful and inclusive event.
Kashish Makhija is an undergraduate Industrial Engineering student based in Montreal, Quebec, with a strong passion for aerospace and space systems. She serves as a Co-Chair in the wSEDS division, leveraging her expertise in project management, community engagement, and STEM advocacy. Her ultimate goal is to apply industrial engineering and project management principles to optimize mission control for Canadian space operations and planetary exploration.
Beyond engineering, she is a private pilot-in-training at ALM Par Avion, deepening her understanding of aerospace systems while fueling her love for aviation. She was also a founding member of The Sound of Space (TSOS), the University of Toronto Aerospace Team’s (UTAT) first-ever space policy podcast. Outside her 9-5. you can find her at live jazz, reading, or improving her hand at tennis.
Kavita Verma is a third-year aerospace engineering student at Toronto Metropolitan University. She is currently gaining hands-on experience as a Product Engineering Intern at MHI Canada Aerospace. In her free time, she enjoys listening to audiobooks and staying active through workouts. Youth Space Entrepreneur Program served as a significant inspiration, motivating for her to apply to SEDS. She values the program’s emphasis on providing students with opportunities to engage in critical thinking and problem-solving.
George holds a Bachelor of Engineering from Memorial University of Newfoundland and is currently pursuing a Master of Applied Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering at Concordia University. For his graduate research, he conducted Lunar rover wheel slip experiments aboard the NRC Falcon 20 aircraft. Additionally, as a Research Assistant, he is preparing to conduct soil excavation experiments in Martian, Lunar, and microgravity environments for NASA with flights provided by the Zero Gravity Corporation (Zero-G). George is excited to be part of CAN-RGX, supporting cutting-edge research by Canadian students who share his passion for microgravity sciences.
Pundeep hopes to bring his passion, experiences, and willingness to learn towards making CAN-RGX a success.
Pundeep is a third-year student at the University of Alberta and is studying mechanical engineering. Passionate about everything space, Pundeep has shown a keen interest in human space exploration from a young age and is enthusiastic about helping develop the Canadian space sector. His passion and interests have led him to join the University of Alberta’s CubeSat team, AlbertaSat, where the team is developing three CubeSats: Ex-Alta 2, YukonSat, and AuroraSat as part of the Northern SPIRIT collaboration between the University of Alberta, Yukon University, and Aurora Research Institute.
Pundeep hopes to bring his passion, experiences, and willingness to learn towards making CAN-RGX a success.
Sean holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology from the University of Victoria and is currently a PhD Candidate in Chemistry at the University of Victoria. He is an alumnus of CAN-RGX and has flown in microgravity in three different flight campaigns. He loves researching anything where biology and spaceflight overlap, and hopes to share this passion and experience to help others succeed on their microgravity journeys.
Pundeep hopes to bring his passion, experiences, and willingness to learn towards making CAN-RGX a success.
Sophie holds a B.Sc. in Biochemistry from Carleton University, and is pursuing a Ph.D. in Biology also at Carleton University. Her work focuses on insect nutritional physiology with applications to sustainable food systems, and she is passionate about the role of biotechnology in future space travel. Beyond research, Sophie is an avid science communicator and can often be found at outreach events or producing illustrations for her next project. An alumnus of a past CAN-RGX campaign that exposed insects to simulated space-flight conditions, she is excited to support students as they pursue compelling new projects in microgravity!
Crysta is currently in her third year of mechanical engineering at the University of Alberta. Her experience leading and founding the project for the 2023-24 CAN-SBX competition with Atmotech ignited her passion for the stratospheric balloon program. As the president of Mission SpaceWalker, a University of Alberta student group, she is committed to advancing space technology research and supporting students in their space careers. With a passion for space, Crysta hopes to explore beyond the stars and bring others along with her.
Nezha holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Polytechnique Montreal with a specialization in Aerospace Embedded Systems. She is a currently working as an Embedded Software Engineer in the High Altitude Platform industry and is responsible for developping avionics and payload systems. Through her participation at SEDS, she hopes to help students to develop their engineering and project management skills to achieve successful balloon flights.
Makenna is in her second-year of a mechanical engineering co-op degree at the University of Alberta, she hopes to continue learning new skills as well as apply them to the space industry. She is grateful to assist in the CAN-SBX challenge and work alongside the SEDS Canada team, on her free time she also works with the mechanical team at AlbertaSAT. With a passion for space, she hopes to one day be exploring past the stars that she studies.
Bhanu is an Assistant Project Manager at SEDS-Canada, where she supports with the organization and management of the CAN-SBX project. With a Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences from McMaster University and experience in project management within the life sciences consulting industry, she enjoys being at the intersection of science, technology, and healthcare. Bhanu has always been passionate about contributing to the space sector and is especially interested in the overlap between digital health and space medicine. Outside of her work, Bhanu enjoys traveling, spending time with family and friends, reading, staying active and discovering new food spots!
James received a bachelors of applied science in engineering chemistry at Queen’s University and is currently completing his masters of space studies at the International Space University. He has worked as an operations consultant across many industries and will be continuing his career as a space systems engineer later this year working on commercial CubeSat missions. James was the project manager for the CAN-SBX project and continues to provide knowledge and support to the staff and student teams participating in the competition.
Sherry is a Mechanical Engineering student at the University of Waterloo with a passion for aviation and space exploration. She currently is the CubeSat Network Coordinator at SEDS-Canada, where she facilitates collaboration between teams and supports the development of CubeSat missions. Her passion for anything that flies, from satellites to UAVs, inspired her to join SEDS-Canada, where she aims to contribute to the future of space exploration.
Aamna Durrani is a Mathematics and Statistics student at McMaster University with a keen interest in data science and space technology. She is a CubeSat Network Coordinator, where she plays a key role in managing the growth of small satellite projects across Canadian universities. Aamna is passionate about space exploration and is driven by the potential of technology to transform industries. Outside of her academic and professional work, she enjoys exploring innovative solutions to real-world challenges, particularly through the intersection of AI and space.
Neil Jadav is a 4th-year Combined Honours student studying Physics and Astronomy at the University of British Columbia. He has gained significant research experience through his previous work at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) and has served as a Teaching Assistant for multiple physics courses. Neil’s passion for space science and research drives his involvement with SEDS Canada, where he aims to further his skills and collaborate with others in the field.
Kavita Verma is a third-year aerospace engineering student at Toronto Metropolitan University. She is currently gaining hands-on experience as a Product Engineering Intern at MHI Canada Aerospace. In her free time, she enjoys listening to audiobooks and staying active through workouts. Youth Space Entrepreneur Program served as a significant inspiration, motivating for her to apply to SEDS. She values the program’s emphasis on providing students with opportunities to engage in critical thinking and problem-solving.
Aidan is the Chief Technology Officer of SEDS Canada. He is responsible for SEDS-Canada’s online presence and the application of software development & managed services for internal processes. Outside of SEDS, he studies systems engineering at the University of Waterloo and enjoys volunteering in the robotics and technology space. He also designs graphics for SEDS and other organizations.
Simran recently graduated with distinction from Toronto Metropolitan University with an Honours Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Sciences. She is passionate about science communication, research, reading and writing! She is currently working as a Research Assistant at St. Michael’s Hospital. She has been volunteering at SEDS Canada for over three years in various roles and events including the Canadian Space Conference, NASA Space Apps and Science Rendezvous. She is currently the Newsletter Editor. Through volunteering at SEDS Canada, she hopes to encourage others to follow their passions and spark interest in space exploration!
Maria graduated from the University of Victoria with a double major Bachelor’s degree in Physics and Astronomy. Her particular area of interest is in stellar evolution and spectroscopy, and she enjoys sharing her passion for observational astronomy with her community. She also actively pursues her creative ambitions in writing, harbouring a great fondness for poetry, classical literature, fantasy, and science fiction. She knows her role with the SEDS team will be a perfect fit as it is the confluence of her greatest passions, space exploration and writing.
Ghali Kabbaj, an international student from Morocco, is currently in his third year of pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering at Université de Moncton. He is a space enthusiast with a strong interest in technology, coding, and making student life more enjoyable as an RA. Ghali is also the Chapters Coordinator at SEDS-Canada and is a former Conference President (ACES’ Engineering Leadership Summit). His fascination with space is driven by an insatiable curiosity and a profound love for exploration.
Keerthana is a Master of Applied Science student in Aerospace Engineering at Carleton University with a background in Mechanical Engineering. She currently serves as a Liaison Officer with SEDS Canada, where she supports relationship-building between students, professionals, and organizations within the Canadian space sector. Her academic interests focus on structures, numerical modelling, and design for extreme environments. Her graduate research examines micrometeoroid and orbital debris (MMOD) impacts on lunar structures, involving high-velocity impact simulations, material behaviour modelling, and structural response analysis under extreme loading conditions. Through this work, she has developed a strong interest in applying computational and analytical methods to real-world space systems challenges. Keerthana joined SEDS Canada to contribute to a student-led community that actively bridges gap between young professionals and the Industry. As a Liaison Officer, she aims to help create meaningful connections that support student development and early-career pathways in aerospace and space systems engineering. When not studying, working, or volunteering, Keerthana enjoys exploring Ottawa’s food scene, finding free local events, and unwinding with Netflix.
Takamitsu is a recent Physics and Astronomy graduate and a first-year Master’s of Applied Science student specializing in Electrical Engineering with a focus on radio communications at the University of British Columbia. He was the founder and team lead of Spacey’s, a diverse team that participated in the 2024 CAN-SBX competition. Takamitsu has a deep interest in electromagnetic fields and space communications, and he hopes to help SEDS inspire future scientists and engineers to explore and advocate for the intersection of pure science and space technology.
Samuel is a second year Mechanical Engineering student at the University of British Columbia hoping to specialize in Mechatronics. He is a regional representative for SEDS Canada. He is passionate about Canada’s role in the global space ecosystem and working in the growing commercial space sector. This summer, he is working as a field technician doing concrete testing for DS Consultants Ltd. Outside of school, he is on the Aerostructures and Composites subteam of UBC Rocket, where he works on manufacturing the body and structures of their two-stage rocket, ‘Garibaldi’. Through SEDS Canada, Samuel hopes to connect with other young professionals passionate about working in the space sector and inspire the next generation.
Lucas is a second-year Computer Science student at the University of Windsor. He is a Regional Representative at SEDS-Canada and is running Windsor’s NASA Space Apps Hackathon this fall.
Kresteen is a third-year Computer Engineering student at McMaster University. She is an active member of the McMaster Rocketry Team, where she takes on the role of Test, Launch, and Safety Operations Lead, overseeing the team’s projects. Kresteen’s passion for space and astronomy traces back to her childhood, igniting a deep fascination with exploring the cosmos. This fascination has fueled her dedication to contributing to the field of space exploration and technology. Her involvement with SEDS Canada stems from her desire to encourage young minds and fellow students to explore the wonders of space. Through her academic journey, she aspires to blend her technical skills with her passion for space to drive innovation and make significant contributions to the advancement of space technology and exploration.
Laylah is completing her first year as a biology student at the University of Ottawa. She serves as the regional representative for Ottawa with SEDS Canada and is a team member of the DIVINAS (Diversity In Astronaut Selection) project under the Space Generational Advisory Council’s Our Giant Leap initiative. In her free time, Laylah teaches science through hands-on activities to students in Ontario and Quebec. She also enjoys spotting the ISS whenever possible, as well as painting and building metal models of spacecrafts.
Taylor is a Physics and Astrophysics Specialist entering their third year at the University of Toronto’s Scarborough Campus. She serves as the HR Manager Co-Lead alongside an excellent team! Through their work outside of SEDS-Canada, Taylor works in disability advocacy, as well as community recreation. Taylor is a proud member of many provincial level committees where they work to promote disability awareness and supports, especially in aquatic settings. In their studies, Taylor is passionate about black hole research, as well as examining the possibilities of CubeSats and their many applications.
Hayden Payson is a graduate of Saint Francis Xavier University with a Bachelor of Business Administration. He is currently serving as the Senior Accounting Director for SEDS-Canada, and is responsible for the production of financial statements, budgets, fundraising, and other accounting and finance matters for SEDS. Hayden currently runs his own business in Truro, Nova Scotia. In his spare time, Hayden reads books, golfs, and plays in a band. He is committed to providing the SEDS team with sound accounting practices and knowledge.
Vasundhara is passionate for the intersection of space and human health. As a dedicated member for SEDS, she has served as Events Chair, helping the organization of the Canadian Space Conference, and as NASA Space Apps Challenge Lead. She also helped establish the Space Life Sciences chapter at SEDS. Vasundhara is actively involved in the Canadian Space Health Research Network and the Canadian Society of Aerospace Medicine. Her research interests include the impacts of agriculture on astronaut health, as well as biomimicry applications in space exploration. She has conducted research on plant growth in non-terrestrial soils and its potential role in sustaining astronaut well-being. Vasundhara hopes to continue planning events and workshops for youth passionate about the exciting crossroads of space, health, and innovation.
Simran recently graduated with distinction from Toronto Metropolitan University with an Honours Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Sciences. She is passionate about science communication, research, reading and writing! She is currently working as a Research Assistant at St. Michael’s Hospital. She has been volunteering at SEDS Canada for over three years in various roles and events including the Canadian Space Conference, NASA Space Apps and Science Rendezvous. She is currently the Newsletter Editor. Through volunteering at SEDS Canada, she hopes to encourage others to follow their passions and spark interest in space exploration!
Lucy Ma is a Biomedical Engineering PhD student at the University of Toronto whose research lies at the intersection of synthetic biology and regenerative medicine. Under the co-supervision of Dr. Michael Garton and Dr. Penney Gilbert, Lucy is engineering human-induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) cells and derived tissues. Lucy is also working to create a gene therapy for astronauts to protect them from ionizing radiation induced DNA damage. Passionate for cultivating a community for Canadian space health research, Lucy is the Communications Chair of the Canadian Space Health Research Network, an organization founded by Dr.Giuseppe Iaria dedicated to create trainee opportunities and to organize the bi-annual national symposiums. Most recently, she is working with Dr.Marcelo Vazquez to build the first Canadian Space Radiation Research Group. Her long-term vision is to leverage business vehicles to build a sustainable ecosystem for a Canadian space health research
Associate Professor
