Sebastian Goodfellow, MASc Candidate

Sebastian Goodfellow, MASc Candidate, MIE Year of Graduation: 2010 Hometown: Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

“I like the idea that something I am doing could benefit the environment, which I care a lot about,” says Sebastian Goodfellow, referring to his current research in experimental turbulence and flow control within the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering. Flow control—a technology related to fluid mechanics—can reduce the cost of travel, emissions and noise while increasing efficiency by improving aerodynamic performance. Sebastian explains, “My project involves studying a particular active flow control device and trying to understand the complex physics behind the reattachment process. Hopefully this research will someday help increase the efficiency of aircraft by reducing airfoil pressure drag.” 

It was the combination of reputation, interesting projects and outstanding faculty that ultimately drew Sebastian to U of T Engineering for graduate studies. Since the start of his MASc at U of T, Sebastian has taken several interesting classes taught by world-class professors. “A highlight of mine was being able to take a class in Fundamentals of Fluid Mechanics with Professor Iain Currie.  His textbook, Fundamental Mechanics of Fluids, is used by students all over the world. It was a great honour and experience to listen to weekly lectures by the author himself.”

A somewhat unforeseen highlight of being a graduate student has involved being a Teaching Assistant. “I had never been a Teaching Assistant before, so getting up in front of a large classroom was a bit nerve-racking at first, but I grew to really enjoy it.” Sebastian has held three Teaching Assistant positions since the start of his degree at U of T. This past fall, he ran the Pelton Wheel lab for a Third Year Fluid Mechanics class. In the winter, he ran tutorials for the First Year Dynamics course, which involved marking and managing office hours.

Originally from Ottawa, Ontario, coming to Toronto was a bit of an adjustment for Sebastian—especially after having pursued his undergraduate degree at the University of New Brunswick. “Toronto is much bigger than Ottawa. But I love Toronto and all it has to offer,” he says.

When he’s not in the lab, Sebastian leads a well-rounded and active lifestyle on and around campus through sports, cycling, music and exploring the outdoors. “I love playing pick-up soccer during the summer on King’s College Circle on campus.” Sebastian also plays rhythm guitar and is lead vocalist for a Beatles cover band. “I play the part of John Lennon. We do our best to replicate a thick Liverpool accent.”

After completing his MASc, Sebastian will either continue his research into a PhD or pursue an MBA. “I hope to practice engineering in the area of environmental science and renewable energy—if the rock and roll career doesn’t work out,” Sebastian adds.