Member Insight: Sonia Grandi

What sparked your decision to become an epidemiologist? 

My path to becoming an epidemiologist was not linear and began while I was working as a research coordinator conducting research in cardiology. During this time, I was working with a colleague who was completing his PhD in epidemiology, and we would have a lot of really interesting and very nerdy conversations about epidemiology. It sparked my interest in the field and gave me the necessary nudge to apply to the PhD program at McGill University. This was not an easy decision, given I had just had my second child and was sleep deprived!  Reflecting on this time of my life now and knowing what I know, I have no regrets.

What do you see as the biggest obstacle facing epidemiologists in the next five years? 

As an epidemiologist, this is an exciting time. The availability of large-scale data, collected through both traditional means and innovative technologies, has expanded our ability to understand how social, genetic, and built environments shape health across the life course.

However, this data-rich landscape also presents an important challenge for epidemiologists. The sheer volume and heterogeneity of data raise concerns about how to balance quantity with quality, and how to distinguish meaningful signals from noise. Issues related to data completeness, measurement error, and systemic bias complicate our ability to generate reliable evidence.

At the same time, the growing reliance on artificial intelligence and advanced analytical tools introduces both opportunities and risks. These approaches can accelerate discovery, but they also demand careful scrutiny to ensure transparency, reproducibility, and scientific rigor. Without appropriate safeguards, there is a risk that increasingly complex methods may obscure rather than clarify underlying causal relationships.

In this evolving landscape, a central obstacle for epidemiologists will be maintaining methodological rigor and data integrity while adapting to faster, more complex, and data-intensive modes of research and communication.

Do you have any pets? 

Yes, she’s basically my third child! My lovable goldendoodle, Maple, is named after the golden syrup of the north.

Why did you join SER? What keeps you coming back? 

I joined SER as a first-year PhD student to network, build collaborations, and stay up to date with current topics in epidemiology. Fast forward to twelve years later, what keeps me coming back is the people. SER has become my home – a community where I connect with colleagues and friends.

What advice do you give students who want to become epidemiologists? 

My first piece of advice is to stay curious. Epidemiology is about asking thoughtful questions and trying to understand patterns in health and disease, so cultivating curiosity and critical thinking is essential.

Second, build a strong foundation in methodological and analytical skills, as well as scientific communication. These are the tools that will allow you to move from interesting questions to impactful answers. At the same time, don’t lose sight of the broader context, understanding how the social, environmental, and biological factors contribute to health is just as important as technical expertise.

I would also encourage students to seek out diverse experiences early on. Whether through research assistantships, internships, or interdisciplinary collaborations, exposure to different areas of public health can help you discover what excites you most and shape your career path.

Equally important is finding mentors and peers who challenge and support you. My own path was shaped by conversations and encouragement from others, and those relationships can be incredibly important for your development.

Finally, be open to non-linear paths. Many people enter epidemiology from different backgrounds, and there is no single “right” way to get there. Embrace opportunities as they come, even if they feel uncertain at the time, they could lead you in an interesting direction.

Outside of epidemiology what do you enjoy doing? 

When I’m not busy being an epidemiologist, or an unofficial Uber for my kids, you’ll usually find me outside making the most of whatever the seasons throw my way. I love staying active with running, hiking, soccer, and kayaking, and I’ve recently set my sights on learning how to surf (wish me luck!).

I’ve also picked up gardening, which has been a surprisingly fun and humbling experience. I’m currently an enthusiastic beginner and cautiously optimistic that I might actually be developing a green thumb.