Researcher Profiles

Daniel Applin

Student 4th year, Physical Geography

Briefly describe the professor and research project you are working with.

Ed Cloutis is the advisor you wish you had. Everyone he has sent off to grad school will attest to this. Ed is involved, available, and pushes for the development of our skills and abilities for success in graduate school.

I’ve been working on a spectroscopic analysis of outwash plain sediments from a cold water hypersaline spring complex north of Swan River, MB. The intention of this project was to 1) understand whether geomorphic features such as this can retain signs of life under Mars-like conditions, 2) understand the formations conditions of the complex in hopes of refining the search for similar formations on Mars, and 3) to compare this complex with an area on Mars that is thought to be of similar origin.

I’ve also been working on understanding the formation, geology, post-impact geomorphology and alteration, and astrobiological implications of the Lake St. Martin impact crater in central Interlake, MB. The Opportunity Rover on Mars is presently studying a similarly sized impact crater, Endeavour, where gypsum was found at the crater rim. The Lake St. Martin impact crater holds a vast gypsum deposit where microbial colonies exist just below the surface, shielded from harsh conditions. It is thought that if life exists on Mars, this type of area may be a good place to look for it.

Why do you want to do this kind of research?

A key theme of planetary science and astrobiology is that they attract researchers from all kinds of disciplines. The interdisciplinary approach is what I enjoy most, particularly since I am majoring in physical geography, which itself is strongly systems based. Doing research in planetary science/astrobiology over the past year has allowed me to bridge gaps with geography, geology, and chemistry.

How do you think this research benefits you in developing your skills and abilities?

I am working in a world class spectroscopy and planetary science laboratory. This is an opportunity that I would almost certainly not have seen at any other university, particularly with the suite of instruments operating in the lab. The independence Ed Cloutis allows in the development and implementation of research methods has been extremely beneficial in developing my confidence, skills, and abilities as I look towards grad school and beyond.

Additionally, I’ve had the opportunity to co-author several papers that are in or entering the peer-review process. This experience has been absolutely invaluable in my development as a researcher.

What is the best part, or what has surprised you in doing this research?

The best part is developing crazy ideas with the other research assistants working in the lab. Regardless of what our independent projects are, there’s always discussion on how to improve each other’s methods and what other cool things we can do with them.

What would you say to students thinking about attending UWinnipeg regarding research opportunities here?

Once you have an idea of what your interests are, don’t be afraid to ask your professor if they have any research opportunities for you. Remember, they can’t ignore you if you ask them in person!

What are your personal goals, how do you hope to use your education down the road?

A graduate degree in planetary geology is my next step. Whether I go on to pursue a career in planetary science, resource geology, or something else is irrelevant to me at the moment as there are endless options. The jobs are there and my experience going to school and working here has made me employable, but I’ll enjoy being a student for now.