Shalin Nayak graduated from McMaster University in 2017 with an Honours degree in Physics. His thesis research involved implementing sorting and classification algorithms on large datasets from space telescopes to search for signatures of supermassive black holes. Upon graduation, he went on to work for the Ontario nuclear energy sector as a technical consultant for four years, working with clients such as Ontario Power Generation and Bruce Power developing and maintaining plant control software systems. Shalin was also a co-architect of his firm’s Indigenous Relations Policy that set out targets relating to the recruitment of individuals who identify as Indigenous, changing procurement supply chains to include Indigenous-owned businesses, and sponsoring initiatives such as STEM camps for Indigenous youth in compliance with the Progressive Aboriginal Relations certification program set the Canadian Council of Aboriginal Business. His experience with CSR policymaking and engagement with First Nations communities sparked an interest in energy, food, and trade policy, leading him to upgrade his academic experience by enrolling in full-time non-degree studies at the University of Toronto taking senior level political science courses while continuing to work full-time.

As a candidate for the Masters of International Public Policy, Shalin looks forward to using his diverse skillset and industry experience to explore the role international economic relations and multilateral institutions play in global and local environmental governance, particularly in the areas of food, clean energy, and fair trade.