Feb 1 2019

Dr. David Olefeldt Guest Lecture Feb. 26 3:30pm @Paul Martin Centre WLU

Olefelldtfeb26_2016 Impacts of wildfire and permafrost thaw on carbon cycling in peatland-rich catchments in boreal western Canada.

Abstract:

Northern peatlands store globally significant amounts of soil carbon, and are located in regions undergoing the most rapid climate change. Two disturbances that are likely to strongly influence the future greenhouse gas exchange of northern peatlands are permafrost thaw and wildfire. Both of these disturbances are common and likely increasing in occurrence in the western boreal forest. Here I will give examples from recent and ongoing research on effects and interactions of wildfire and permafrost thaw on carbon cycling from peatland complexes along a latitudinal gradient from continuous to sporadic permafrost along the Mackenzie valley in western Canada. The studies focus on both peat plateaus, thermokarst bogs and thermokarst ponds, and has found both settings where the carbon storage is inert and vulnerable to future climate change. Our research focuses both on the greenhouse gas exchange of these ecosystems and their downstream export of dissolved organic matter.

Feb26 3:30 PMC WLU

Jan 28 2019

Canadian Masters position at Wilfrid Laurier University

Dr. Miguel Sioui is looking to recruit an MA student to start in fall 2019. He is interested in developing a master’s project on any of the following topics: Indigenous knowledge/traditional ecological knowledge and how it can enhance mainstream environmental management and planning; Indigenous environmental philosophies of the Americas and the impact of environmental change on land-based Indigenous groups; the impacts of extractive industries on Indigenous land use and livelihoods.

Jan 25 2019

Dr. Brenda Parlee Guest Lecture. Tuesday January 29th @3:30

parlee jan29th 2019 parlee_january29_19_PDF

Jan 17 2019

Field Assistant Needed- Scotty Creek 2019

Geography – Field Research Assistant Position

Summary: We seek a motivated research assistant to work with a graduate student on their research project in the remote Northwest Territories. This research project aims to improve our understanding of permafrost environments in transition. The successful candidate will assist in various methods of fieldwork, data collection and logistical support in the field. This position is ideal for an undergraduate student looking for relevant work experience in their field.

Responsibilities: The successful candidate will:

Document field observations and/or download data from various pieces of equipment in an outdoor setting in accordance with established procedures.
Ensuring field safety procedures are followed during all work.
Assist the graduate student in any other task related to data collection as required

Desired Qualifications and Experience:

S. or M.S. degree in physical or environmental science, geography, or a related discipline
Experience working remote locations and/or outdoor environments
Ability to work flexible and sometimes long hours.
Knowledge and interest in climate change, hydrology or permafrost research.
Ability to gain or receive additional qualifications prior to field work
Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills.
Ability to work independently and in a highly collaborative environment.
Firearms handling and experience in the safe use of hand and power tools are assets.

Tentative Start Date: Late March to early April 2019

Compensation: Dependent on length of stay in the field.

Appointment: This is a three to two-month appointment depending on start date.

Application Process: Applicants should submit a short Letter of Interest which expresses the applicant’s suitability for the position, accompanied by a resume. Applications may be sent by e-mail to: domi9430@mylaurier.ca

Deadline for applications: February 14^th, 2019