From Computer Science to Environmental Scientist

In 2012 João Albuquerque stepped out of his comfort zone as a computer scientist and into the classroom as a lecturer at Federal University of Paraná and Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná. The experience inspired him to take on his PhD. A decision that brought him to Aotearoa, New Zealand, and landed him a role as an oceanographer and climate scientist.

A surfer since the age of thirteen, João's passion for the ocean led him to a PhD in Environmental Sciences. His research is focused on the characteristics of the wave climate, ocean waves around New Zealand, and climate change effects in this area towards the end of the century.

João now works for MetOcean Solutions, an oceanographic consultancy which is a branch of MetService New Zealand. He creates wave simulations to design nearshore structures such as ports and harbours and estimate sediment transport and erosion on beaches.

“Until recently, we have only used past data from models and observations in our simulations, which might not represent the future wave climate. However, we are now also working on adding information about the future wave climate in our simulations,” he said.

Can you describe a project or initiative you are particularly proud of and explain its significance?

“When we work with the future wave climates, which is part of my PhD research, the design of nearshore structures can be future-proof, and this can potentially increase our resilience for climate change. The same can be done to analyse whether our beaches will erode or accrete towards the end of the century, providing decision-makers with critical information for coastal management. This ongoing effort may benefit New Zealand and its coastal communities for the years to come, which is amazing.”

Has your experience in Computer Science contributed to your climate work?

“My programming and computer science background equipped me with valuable skills I could apply to my postgraduate research to understand the effects of climate change on New Zealand's wave climate. I built tools for pre-processing all the data needed for my models, running thousands of simulations, and post-processing all the data generated into tangible, condensed information to make a thorough analysis.”

Did any scholarships support you during your study?

“GNS Science, Te Pū Ao funded the Climate Change Impacts on Weather-Related Hazards project. This was really valuable, as it made everything possible. If it weren't for this scholarship, it would not have been possible for me to work on this project with my supervisor.”

What did you like most about the programme and why?

“It is a well-structured programme that allows freedom to attend the courses you want and need to. We frequently have lectures or seminars from renowned researchers and many other activities to learn and socialise. Also, the University's facilities are very good for study and leisure.”

What advice would you give to someone considering studies related to climate change?

“This area includes many complex systems that feed back into each other. Hence, I'd advise them never to forget their critical thinking and always think outside the box. Even though We have been witnessing extreme events recently and we need a solution for the climate crisis, there is a lot to be understood on the subject before we can say what is causing it and what is evidence of it. There are, for example, cases of increased temperatures caused by internal climate variability that are not related to climate change. So, one must be careful when analysing the climate to avoid attributing such isolated events to global warming.”

Anything else that you'd like to mention about your time at the University of Auckland? ?

“It was an amazing time despite the pressure. The University's staff were always friendly and helpful, and I had the opportunity to make great friends. I attended conferences and training in different parts of the world and met incredible people. On top of that, Professor Giovanni Coco is an outstanding person and supervisor who is now a good friend of mine. I got a lot more from this PhD journey than I would have ever imagined.”

Tell us something we can't learn from Googling you!

“I can brew beer, and I used to sing in a band back in Brazil..”