Graduate Students - Widget
Ayomide Fatogun
Supervisor: Christopher Storie
Email: fatogun-a@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Science
Thesis: Aerial Surveys of Moose using Drone and Satellite Imagery in Manitoba
Entry: Fall 2022
Research Interests:
My research interests are in remote sensing, GIS, machine learning and map automation. My project will explore using satellite and drone imagery combined with machine learning as the primary tool for surveying big game in Manitoba.
Biography:
I graduated from the University of Winnipeg with a BSc (Hons) in Geography (Geomatics Stream). The MESC program provides a unique opportunity to learn and work collaboratively with people from other disciplines to create sustainable solutions to major issues.
Shamim Anowar
Supervisor: Dr. Ryan Bullock
Email: anowar-s@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Arts
Thesis: A Case Study of Policy and Regulatory Frameworks to Support Bioenergy from Forest Biomass in Manitoba, Canada
Entry: Fall 2023
Research Interests:
My research interests focus on renewable energy, energy policy, bioenergy and forestry, and the energy & environmental policy nexus for supporting sustainable development and creating resilient environments.
Biography:
Hello! I come from a small village in the southern part of Bangladesh. I earned my Master of Public Administration and Bachelor of Social Science in Public Administration from Jahangirnagar University in Bangladesh. Since 2019, I have been serving as an Assistant Director at the Sustainable and Renewable Energy Development Authority (SREDA), a nodal agency for the development of renewable energy and energy efficiency in Bangladesh, aiming to build an energy-conscious nation by promoting sustainable energy and reducing carbon emissions. In addition, I have been actively involved with Youth Career School as an instructor since 2021. While working at SREDA, I came to realize that the nexus between energy and the environment is crucial for sustainable development and mitigating the impacts of climate change. I am confident that pursuing the Master of Arts in Environmental and Social Change program at the University of Winnipeg will provide me with a comprehensive understanding of human-environmental interaction. Furthermore, the Environment and Society Collaborative Lab offers a unique opportunity for me to work, learn, and grow alongside individuals with diverse research interests.
Indeera Hetti Arachchige
Supervisor: Dr. Doug Goltz & Dr. Darshani Kumaragamage
Email: hettiarachchige-i@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Science
Thesis: Blended soil amendment effects on phosphorus loss to snowmelt from manured soils
Entry: Fall 2023
Research Interests:
Soil amendments have been proposed as effective management strategies for reducing P loss to waterways from flooded soils, but the mechanisms involved are yet to be explored. My research focus is on the effect of blended soil amendment on phosphorus loss from soils under snowmelt flooding. Also, I am interested in looking at the individual soil properties involved in soil P mobilization using model soils as a tool. As the next step, I am interested in developing environmentally friendly, sustainable, and efficient recommendations that can be used at the farmer field level to mitigate P loss from agricultural lands to waterways and help protect Manitoba’s water resources.
Biography:
I’m Indeera Hettiarachchige, a graduate student in my first year at the University of Winnipeg's M.Sc. in Environmental and Social Change program. I’m originally from Sri Lanka and I graduated with a B.Sc. in Agricultural Technology and Management from The University of Peradeniya. Currently, I’m reading my thesis under the supervision of Dr. Darshani Kumaragamage and Dr. Doug Goltz. The experience as an international student at The University of Winnipeg has been amazing so far, and I’m certain that it will enrich me as a scientist who can make interdisciplinary approaches to real-world issues.
Lila Asher
Supervisor: Dr. Ryan Bullock
Email: asher-l71@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Arts
Thesis: Urban Indigenous Participation in Municipal Governance
Entry: Fall 2023
Research Interests:
My research interests centre around climate resilience, Indigenous self-determination, collaborative governance, and urban contexts. I’m excited to be contributing to the CANSTOREnergy project during my time with Environment and Society Research Group at UWinnipeg.
Biography:
Hi, I’m Lila (she/they) and I’m in the MA stream of the Master of Environment and Social Change program here at the University of Winnipeg. I hold a Master of City Planning from the University of Manitoba and a BA in Equity Studies and Environmental Studies from the University of Toronto. I grew up in Louisville, KY and have family coast to coast in the US. As a settler scholar, activist, and (hopefully some day!) planning practitioner, I strive to ensure my work is accountable to Indigenous leadership and decolonial goals.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lila-asher/
Tia Bartel-Ens
Supervisor: Supervisor Name
Email: bartel-ens-t@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Science
Thesis: Characterizing Dissolved Organic Matter in Boreal Forested Catchment Soil Water using Fluorescence Spectroscopy
Entry: Fall 2023
Research Interests:
My project will look at characterizing dissolved organic matter in boreal forested catchment soil water, using fluorescence spectroscopy. Soil water, and stream water samples from the Experimental Lakes Area in Ontario, will be utilized in order to determine if fluorescence spectroscopy, can be an effective tool to characterize dissolved organic matter in soil water. Applying fluorescence spectroscopy to catchments, could resolve missing data in regards to carbon in catchments, as well as changes in carbon transport and environmental processes, resulting from the climate crisis.
Biography:
I graduated with a BSc in Chemistry from the University of Winnipeg in 2023. I chose the MESC program because of the interdisciplinary nature of it, as well as the ability to combine both my background in chemistry, and research interests surrounding issues related to climate change.
Patrick Carty
Supervisor: Dr. Alan Diduck
Email: carty-p@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Environment
Thesis: Advancing Indigenous-Led Forestry to Enhance Adaptive Capacity and Climate Change Resilience
Graduation: Summer 2023
Research Interests:
I am working on the Climate Learning and Adaptation for Northern Development Project (C-LAND). The purpose of this project is to determine how climate learning can support adaptive capacity within intricate government settings. This will be done by exploring various case studies involving the natural resource sector within northern communities across Canada.
Biography:
I graduated with a BSc in Biology from the University of Winnipeg in 2021. My undergrad had a major focus on both Forest Ecology and Indigenous Studies and I have worked in the urban forestry industry for 5 years. I was drawn to the MESC program by its interdisciplinary nature and I believe bridging natural and social sciences is crucial in understanding the climate issues we face today. The C-LAND project is particularly compelling as northern communities are often adversely affected by climate change and the natural resource industry.
Nadeesha Dissanayaka
Supervisor: Dr. Ryan Bullock
Email: dissanayaka-n@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Environment
Thesis: Empowering the Indigenous Communities in Forest Governance in Canada; as a Case Study of Eagle Lake First Nations in Northern Ontario
Entry: Fall 2022
Research Interests:
My research interest deals with Environmental Governance, Forest Resource Management, Co-Management, and Climate Change.
Biography:
My name is Nadeesha Dissanayaka. I am a graduate student in my first year at the University of Winnipeg's M.ENV. in Environmental and Social Change programme. I am reading my thesis under the supervision of Dr. Ryan Bullock, Canada Research Chair in Human-Environmental Interactions. I am originally from Sri Lanka, which is known as the pearl of the Indian Ocean. Moreover, pursuing a master’s degree at UWinnipeg allows me to receive a higher level education, and the flexibility of the MESC curriculum gives me a broad education and professional contacts. This M.ENV. in Environmental and Social Change program is of special relevance to my professional goals and career objectives. This interdisciplinary degree collaboration with Science and Art is really attractive to me, and this would certainly provide more exposure to the wider world of knowledge in the area of the Human Dimension of Natural Resource Management.
Selected Publications:
Aishika Dissanayake
Supervisor: Dr. Darshani Kumaragamage
Email: dissanayakemudiyan-a@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Science
Thesis: Phosphorus speciation changes with the application of single and blended soil amendments
Entry: Fall 2023
Research Interests:
My research interest deals with soil and environmental chemistry. My fascination with soil is about understanding its profound impact on our environment. In my master’s at the University of Winnipeg, I am deeply examining the environmental consequences associated with the utilization of synthetic fertilizers and animal manure as sources of plant nutrients. Understanding the intricate transformations and mobility of phosphorus within soils constitutes another pivotal facet of my research. This exploration is crucial in unraveling the dynamics that influence nutrient management strategies aimed at bolstering productivity sustainably.
Biography:
I'm on a captivating journey as a student in pursuit of a Master of Science in Environmental and Social Change. My academic expedition revolves around a profound fascination with uncovering the hidden wonders nestled within our soil. My curiosity drives me to unravel the complexities of soil science, diving into its composition, health, and critical significance in sustaining our ecosystems. Beyond the classroom, I'm actively engaging in hands-on research and collaborative projects, channeling my knowledge toward real-world environmental challenges. I aim to be a driving force for positive change in soil science and sustainability. Through my tenure in this Master's program, I'm honing the expertise and innovation necessary to become a leader in advocating for environmentally sound practices, specifically focusing on nurturing and safeguarding soil health. Join me in this dirt-to-table journey, where every discovery in the soil leads us closer to a future where our earth thrives, sustaining life and prosperity for generations to come.
Jenelle Ehn
Supervisor: Richard Westwood
Email: ehn-j75@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Science
Thesis: Exploring New Dutch Elm Disease Management Strategies in Winnipeg, Manitoba
Entry: Fall 2022
Research Interests:
My research will focus on developing new strategies for managing Dutch elm disease within Winnipeg’s elm population. The project will involve using drone technology to assess tree health and determine if non-visible symptoms from Dutch elm disease can be detected at an early stage of disease to reduce the time of diagnosis in diseased trees. The second component of my project will involve using techniques to monitor elm bark beetle flight periods in Winnipeg, examining flight activity in the spring as well as mid to late summer. Knowing the specific timeframe of beetle emergence can assist in improving Winnipeg’s Dutch elm disease rapid removal program by removing infected trees with high larval beetle populations before they emerge, decreasing beetle volumes and reducing the spread of disease.
Biography:
I have a 4-year Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Winnipeg, majoring in Biology and minoring in Physical Geography. My interests focus on wildlife and environmental conservation, and I am pursuing a career with the mindset of creating a positive impact and spreading appreciation for the natural world. I have a diverse set of experiences including waterfowl research, bat research, urban forestry work, and fish research. I am pursuing my master’s degree with goal of producing research that will lead to advanced tree disease management strategies. I am an ISA certified arborist with a passion for protecting Winnipeg's urban forest!
Sean Goldstone
Supervisor: Dr. Alan Diduck
Email: goldstone-s21@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Environment
Thesis: Climate Change Adaptation in Newfoundland’s Renewable Bio-Resource Sector: An investigation of Social Learning and Policy
Entry: Fall 2021
Research Interests:
My research will examine linkages between social learning and adaptive capacity and how these concepts may translate to climate change adaptation in Canada’s renewable resource sector. The research will provide information and tools to guide adaptation strategies in correspondence to Canada’s international commitments under the Paris Agreement and federal objectives in pursuit of a clean growth economy.
Biography:
I graduated from the University of Winnipeg with a BSc in Environmental Science (Hons) in the forest policy and management stream and a 3-year minor in biology. Through my education, I have gained an interdisciplinary and integrated knowledge of the intrinsically linked natural and human environment. This has brought about a personal desire to stand up for social justice, and engage in sustainability issues. I chose the MESC program because it zeros in on integrated training that environmental industries truly need to make positive change. Through this program, I anticipate comprehensive development of my ability to work through an interdisciplinary and collaborative lens, as well as enhance a broad range of research and critical thinking skills made available through the program.
Patrick Harney
Supervisor: Dr. Matt Dyce & Dr. Ian Mauro
Email: harney-p@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Thesis: Risk, Crisis, and the Prairies: Investigating the Relationship between Culture and Risk among Farmers in the Canadian Prairies
Entry: Fall 2021
Research Interests:
My research focuses on how culture, values, politics and ideology shape perception of climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies among Canadian farmers. My project highlights the critical role of values-based and cross-cultural understanding in forging effective climate action. My research will investigate and integrate social research, digital storytelling, and the critical role that climate communications play especially when attuned to the needs and values of communities.
Biography:
I graduated with a BA Honours in Anthropology from the University of Winnipeg. My choice to join the MESC is motivated by a growing sense of urgency regarding the broad societal change necessary to face the climate emergency.
Alexandria Ireland
Supervisor: Dr. Ryan Bullock
Email: ireland-a@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Arts
Thesis: Exploring Positionality and Solidarity within Indigenous Community-based Assessment
Entry: Fall 2021
Research Interests:
My areas of research interest are the intersections of human-environment interaction with Indigenous rights, environmental racism, and treaty relationships.
Biography:
I graduated in 2017 with a BA in Human Rights from the University of Winnipeg. I am a policy analyst with experience working with community-based organizations in the North End of Winnipeg in project planning, evaluation, and crisis support. I chose the MESC program at the University of Winnipeg to have the opportunity to learn from and work collaboratively with the environmental and science sectors. A huge systemic barrier to sustainable long term social and environmental change is the “siloing” of sectors and initiatives. I am looking forward to returning to U of W, gaining experience on land based research projects, and studying with other students across program streams.
Olivia Kehler
Supervisor: Supervisor Name
Email: kehler-o@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Arts
Thesis: Researcher reflexivity on empowering practice in community-engaged research
Entry: Fall 2022
Research Interests:
My thesis project explores the concept of ‘empowerment’ as it is applied in the field of community-engaged research in Canada. This is from the perspectives of researchers themselves as reflexivity is essential for improved practice, particularly in participatory approaches involving Indigenous peoples and communities. I have also taken part in conducting a systematic review of wise practices for Indigenous community-engaged research.
Biography:
I am a second year Masters student, holding a BA in International Development Studies from the University of Winnipeg. I spent the first half of my life living internationally, however am now proud to call Winnipeg home. Most of my work experience is in the not-for-profit sector working with youth and young adults. I also have experience in GIS and with organizations focused on food security. I have benefitted from the MESC program’s interdisciplinary approach to problem solving, and in the long run hope to leverage my personal and professional skillsets to improve environmental stewardship for the well-being of all.
Anas Khan
Supervisor: Dr. Alan Diduck & Dr. Kirit Patel
Email: khan-m26@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Arts
Thesis: A Human Rights-Based Perspective on Dried Fish Value Chains in Gujarat, India
Entry: Fall 2022
Research Interests:
My research interests include human rights-based approaches to development & conservation, institutional & legal analysis, commons governance, and public policy. As part of the MESC program, I will be working under the supervision of Dr Alan Diduck and Dr Kirit Patel. Through my thesis research, I seek to understand the substantive and procedural human rights in dried fish value chain in Valsad district of south Gujarat, India. Dried fish is an important source of nutrition and livelihood for some of the most marginalized communities such as women and tribal communities in southern Gujarat, India yet its policy and governance has been largely unexplored. Since dried fish value chains operate in the informal economy, human rights concerns are largely neglected. The goal of my research is to bridge this research gap through an enhanced understanding of the dried fish economy especially the post-harvest segments of processing and trade.
Biography:
My name is Anas! I am originally from a small coastal town in Gujarat, India. My undergraduate degree is in law, and I also hold a diploma in human rights. I have previously worked as a Senior Associate (Policy Training & Outreach) with the Centre for Civil Society, India – a New Delhi based public policy think tank. My work primarily included policy advocacy, training and outreach on key environmental policy projects focusing on forest rights in India, and on making a case for rights-based regulatory governance of small-scale fisheries. I also teach a module on environmental policy as part of the Centre for Civil Society’s introductory course in public policy. I chose the MESC program because it offers me a unique opportunity to pursue interdisciplinary research, broaden my understanding of different perspectives on environmental and social challenges, and learn from a diverse group of peers. In the longer run, I see myself at the intersection of academia and think-tanks – connecting academic knowledge to real world problems.
Andrew Klein
Supervisor: Dr. Caleb Hassler & Dr. JP Desforges
Email: klein-a96@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Science
Thesis: The use of environmental DNA as a tool to augment sampling for fish community monitoring
Entry: Fall 2022
Research Interests:
I am interested in freshwater fisheries and aquatic biology. My research utilizes environmental DNA technology to sample fish populations on local waterways. The aim is to provide a more realistic number of potential species impacted by generating systems, improving environmental stewardship, and mitigation measures.
Biography:
After completing my undergrad biology degree at the University of Winnipeg, I am excited to pursue my M.Sc. through the same institution. The MESC program will allow me to interact and collaborate with people from various disciplines and backgrounds. This will be advantageous for me as it will ensure I convey my research in a way that is more approachable for those with non-science backgrounds.
Richard La
Supervisor: Nora Casson
Email: la-r@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Science
Thesis: Movement of Dissolved Organic Carbon within Streams in Canada’s Boreal Region
Entry: Fall 2022
Research Interests:
My areas of research will involve looking at the movement of dissolved organic carbon in various streams in the Experimental Lakes Area catchment located in Ontario. I will be sampling and analyzing various stream water samples for the variation in dissolved organic carbon and comparing them to hydrological drought conditions.
Biography:
I graduated during the summer of 2022 with a 4 yr Bsc in Geography at the University of Winnipeg. I entered the MESC program to develop further skills and explore a more research-based project. I thoroughly enjoy partaking in field work where I can go out in the various terrain to collect samples. I am also excited to grow more experiences within the lab where I will be analyzing these samples.
Annie Martel
Supervisor: Ian Mauro & Ryan Bullock
Email: martel-a30@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Arts
Thesis: Métis Knowledge, Climate Change Risk Assessment, and Adaptation Planning in Michif Communities in Southeastern Manitoba
Entry: Fall 2022
Research Interests:
My research interests include Indigenous knowledges, climate change, risk assessment, and climate change adaptation. My current proposed research focuses on characterizing Métis knowledge across both English and French-speaking Michif communities in Southeastern Manitoba (including my own community) to better understand the risks and opportunities to respond to climate change in a holistic and culturally appropriate manner. The project will help understand the linkages between colonization, land-use, and capacity to respond to climate impacts while also developing climate adaptation planning approaches based on Métis knowledge. I want to comprehensively bring Métis knowledge into the discourse around climate change while increasing Indigenous-led cultural and environmental security and sustainability across Turtle Island. I am grateful to be back in my community and back on my homelands after being away for several years, and I am looking forward to learning more and reclaiming my own community’s history and knowledge!
Biography:
Taanshi! My name is Annie Martel (she/her/elle), I am a Red River Métis woman. I am from a small Métis community, traditionally known as the Rat River Settlement, now known as St-Pierre-Jolys. I recently completed my Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies from Mount Allison University, where I also took minors in Indigenous Environmental Science and Geography. I chose the MESC program due to its interdisciplinary and comprehensive approach to solving complex issues that face our society, such as climate change. This smaller program fosters great connections with my peers and professors who all come from different backgrounds and worldviews. I am also lucky to be partnered with the Prairie Climate Centre team and their vast expertise and knowledge in climate change adaptation.
Chathuri Mudalige
Supervisor: Dr. JP Desforges
Email: mudalige-c@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Science
Thesis: Cell-based transcriptomics as a tool to assess the effects of contaminants of Arctic concern
Entry: Fall 2023
Research Interests:
My research focuses on assessing the impact of Arctic contaminants, employing a combination of cell-based in vitro studies and transcriptomic tools. The consistent rise in the production of chemical compounds leads to the continuous release of contaminants into the environment. Contaminants emitted in lower latitudes accumulate in Arctic ecosystems and end up in the bodies of Indigenous peoples, and animals at the top of the food chain, causing negative health effects. One major problem in tackling this issue is the lack of information on how these chemicals affect humans. I will be using human cell lines to understand the effects of contaminants that cause changes in gene expression. This knowledge will be useful for understanding toxicity thresholds and the mode of action of priority Arctic contaminants, aiding government and international organizations in making informed decisions to safeguard both humans and wildlife.
Biography:
As an international student hailing from the vibrant landscapes of Sri Lanka, I hold an MSc in Biotechnology and am currently pursuing MSc in Environmental and Social Change program. What drew me to this journey was its compelling interdisciplinary framework, a holistic approach to untangling the challenges in our society. What makes it even better is the invaluable connections I am making with my peers and professors from different backgrounds and having unique perspectives, which enrich my journey. This dynamic environment not only fuels my academic growth but also provides an exciting opportunity to further develop my skills, and explore exciting new knowledge.
Publications:
Ryan Shirtliffe
Supervisor: Dr. Chris Storie & Dr. Christopher Henry
Email: shirtliffe-r@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Science
Thesis: Ground, Drone, and Satellite Detection of Fusarium Head Blight in Wheat
Entry: Fall 2021
Research Interests:
I will utilize remote sensing and drone imagery to identify defects and damage to railway infrastructure from hydrological impacts in northern Manitoba.
Biography:
After graduating in 2016 from the University of Winnipeg with a BSc in Geography and entering the workforce, the MESC program presents an opportunity to continue to build on my academic experience, develop my skills further, and learn new skills.
Sahej Sidhu
Supervisor: Dr. Ed Cloutis
Email: sidhu-s13@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Science
Entry: Fall 2022
Research Interests:
I’ll be conducting thermal experiments under asteroid-like environmental conditions on various meteorites and track what spectral and mineralogical changes occur as a result. As part of the Planetary Science stream, I’m interested in studying the origin and evolution of asteroids, specifically carbonaceous chondrite asteroids. Dark asteroids provide a window into the early Solar System as they preserve pre-solar chemistry and can also help us address important questions such as the delivery of organics and other volatiles to an early Earth. I’ll be conducting various thermal experiments using vacuum ovens and collecting data using a few different spectrometers.
Biography:
My name is Sahejpal Sidhu. I completed my undergraduate BSc in Geography here at the University of Winnipeg. During my undergrad, I fell into the orbit of Dr. Ed Cloutis and his planetary science world, and here we are. I chose the MESC program to have the opportunity to continue to study at the C-TAPE laboratory and take advantage of the wide variety of equipment and learning opportunities available.
Haven Soto
Supervisor: Dr. Nora Casson and Dr. Inoka Amarakoon
Email: soto-h@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Science
Thesis: Quantifying the Transport Potential of Antibiotics and their Degradation Products in Spring-Thaw Snowmelt Runoff from Manure-Amended Cropland
Graduation: Spring
Research Interests:
My project aims to quantify dissolved and sediment-bound veterinary antibiotics found in spring-thaw snowmelt runoff in prairie agricultural fields. Livestock manure is often used to improve the physical qualities of agricultural fields, but veterinary antibiotics that is excreted (and present in the manure) are known to contribute to an increase in antibiotic resistance in environmental bacteria. Data and results from this study can be used to create policies for sustainable manure management under Canadian prairie conditions.
Biography:
I am pursuing a Master of Science in Environmental and Social Change under the supervision of Dr. Nora Casson and Dr. Inoka Amarakoon from the University of Manitoba. I chose the MESC program because of its interdisciplinary nature and the opportunity to work with Dr. Casson and Dr. Amarakoon.
Amy Thorkelson
Supervisor: Dr. Richard Westwood & Dr. Katherine Dearborn
Email: thorkelson-a@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Science
Thesis: Implications of Climate Change for Endangered Prairie Butterflies
Entry: Fall 2022
Research Interests:
I am interested in investigating the impact of weather and climate change on the abundances and ranges of three endangered skipper butterflies; Dakota skipper, Poweshiek skipperling, and Mottled duskywing. There is currently considerable uncertainty as to why these species have experienced drastic declines in abundance and range, and the impact of climate change has not yet been explored, presenting a challenge for conservation efforts. If current ranges are to become climatically inhospitable in the near future, habitat may need to be conserved or managed in other regions as ranges shift. Understanding the extent to which climate governs skipper population dynamics will help ensure viable, climatically hospitable habitat can be identified, managed, and protected in the future.
Biography:
In 2022 I completed by BSc in Environmental Science (Global Systems) at the University of Winnipeg. During my time here I completed a Research Assistant position with Dr. Dearborn and Dr. Westwood helping with their work on skipper habitat research. The next summer I worked with the Assiniboine Park Zoo as a Conservation Assistant on skipper husbandry and other conservation efforts. The culmination of these experiences, my love for the prairies and the natural world, and my passion for climate change research led me to my current project. I am thrilled to be working on a project that has real world applications and incorporates the ever-growing threat of climate change into conservation.
Nathalie Turenne
Supervisor: Dr. Ed Cloutis
Email: turenne-n@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Science
Thesis: Detecting Life using Mg-Carbonates: Relevance to Jezero Crater, Mars
Entry: Summer 2023
Research Interests:
I will be researching how to detect and characterize microbalites and Mg-carbonates along with other material that may preserve biosignatures using mars-like spectroscopic instruments. My research will tie into the landing site at Jezero crater due to it being an ancient lake and river delta on mars as well as my involvement with the Supercam team on the Perseverance rover as the science payload uplink lead and campaign implementation lead choosing and discussing rock targets that may hold clues to ancient life.
Biography:
My name is Nathalie Turenne, I graduated with a B.S.c in Environmental Sciences and a B.S.c in Geography from the University of Winnipeg in 2020. I am currently working on several projects in Dr. Ed Cloutis’s Centre for Terrestrial and Planetary Exploration (C-TAPE). I chose the MESC program due to the great experiences I acquired in my undergrad studies. The passion of the professors and the community of the students created such a great environment. As well, the ability to have a great supervisor and continue doing research in the field of planetary science was a big factor.
Emily Unger
Supervisor: Dr. Ryan Bullock
Email: unger-e@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Arts
Thesis: Community Energy Planning as a Pathway Beyond Reconcilliation
Entry: Fall 2021
Research Interests:
My research focuses on forestry and co-management resource agreements. My research will follow a relationship-based approach to understanding forestry governance and related capacity needs, working collaboratively with Eagle Lake First Nation to develop long-term solutions that account for the rights of, and also meet the long-term objectives and goals of forestry professionals and Eagle Lake First Nation. This project may serve as a model for future natural resource based projects to develop equitable resource management models.
Biography:
Since graduating with a Bachelor of Environmental Studies in 2020, I have had a keen interest in continuing my studies around environmental governance and resource management. I am now pursuing my Masters in Environment in the MESC program under the supervision of Dr Ryan Bullock. I am looking forward to being a part of the small and supportive research environment that the University of Winnipeg offers its students.
Kirstin Witwicki
Supervisor: Dr. Ian Mauro & Dr. Ryan Bullock
Email: witwicki-k@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Arts
Thesis: Fighting Fire with Fire: Amplifying the Voices of Indigenous Fire Affected Communities across Western Canada
Entry: Fall 2021
Research Interests:
I am interested in decolonial methodologies and wise practices that link Western science with Indigenous ways of knowing to best support community-level resilience and adaptability, while also examining climate-related disaster evacuations within Indigenous communities in Manitoba.
Biography:
Aaniin, boozhoo! My name is Kirstin Witwicki and I completed my undergrad degree here at the University of Winnipeg in Geography and Indigenous Studies. As an Indigenous scholar, I am excited to collaborate with Dr. Mauro and the team at the University of Winnipeg’s Prairie Climate Centre. I choose the master's program at the University of Winnipeg because of its interdisciplinary foundations. Working with people from a variety of disciplines and a diversity of worldviews and experiences gives us the best chance of finding creative and effective solutions to the environmental and social challenges that we face today.
Z. U. Wolf
Supervisor: Dr. Ed Cloutis
Email: wolf-z@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Science
Thesis: Carbonates and Silica in Our Solar System
Entry: Fall 2021
Research Interests:
My research involves the study of various types of silica deposits that are known to be widespread on Mars, including Jezero crater, site of the Perseverance Rover. I am investigating the internal morphologies and compositions of selected Mars analogue sites that are rich in silica, as well as characterization of any preserved microbes. T
Biography:
I graduated with a B.Sc. (Hons) in Chemistry and a B.A. in Geography from the University of Winnipeg. I choose the MESC program because it allows me to use both my chemistry and geography degrees in an area of research that is constantly evolving and that I am immensely passionate about.
Dan Applin
Supervisor: Dr. Ed Cloutis
Email: applin-d@webmail.uwinnipeg.ca
Degree: Master of Science
Thesis: Quantifying the Colours of Minerals and Carbon
Entry: Fall 2021
Research Interests:
As part of the M.Sc stream, I will be working on deriving refractive indices of a number of materials, while comparing and contrasting several existing methods. Refractive indices are required for radiative transfer modelling of atmospheres, soils, and regolith. These data on relevant minerals, pollutants, and aerosols are strongly lacking in the literature and existing databases.
Biography:
I manage the laboratories and instrumentation at the Centre for Terrestrial and Planetary Exploration at the University of Winnipeg. I chose the MESC program at UWinnipeg because of the program size and interdisciplinary approach, and the availability of analytical equipment at UWinnipeg.