Francis Juanes - Liber Ero Professor of Fisheries
Bill Halliday - Postdoctoral Fellow
I work with Wildlife Conservation Society Canada to study underwater acoustics of marine mammals in the western Canadian Arctic, and examine the impacts of climate change on the acoustic environment for these mammals. The main species that I study are bowhead whales (Balaena mysticetus), beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas), bearded seals (Erignathus barbatus), and ringed seals (Pusa hispida). The two main impacts of climate change are the direct loss of sea ice, which generally makes the environment louder, and the indirect effect of increased shipping, which similarly increases noise levels. Visit his website here
I work with Wildlife Conservation Society Canada to study underwater acoustics of marine mammals in the western Canadian Arctic, and examine the impacts of climate change on the acoustic environment for these mammals. The main species that I study are bowhead whales (Balaena mysticetus), beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas), bearded seals (Erignathus barbatus), and ringed seals (Pusa hispida). The two main impacts of climate change are the direct loss of sea ice, which generally makes the environment louder, and the indirect effect of increased shipping, which similarly increases noise levels. Visit his website here
Matt Pine - Postdoctoral Fellow
I have a BSc in Biological Sciences, specializing in Marine Science and a PhD in Marine Science from the University of Auckland, New Zealand. During my PhD studies and after graduating I worked in industry as an acoustician in New Zealand before working as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Chinese Academy of Science's Institute of Hydrobiology in China. I am now a Mitacs Postdoctoral Fellow at the Juanes Lab, working closely with Jasco Applied Sciences Ltd. My research is on the distribution of fish species in the western Canadian Arctic, with a particular focus on a keystone species, the Arctic cod (Boreogadus saida) using passive acoustic monitoring. Using statistical and acoustic modelling we hope to predict the potential impacts of anthropogenic noise and environmental changes on fish distributions. This work will be the first to investigate the ecoacoustics of Canadian Arctic fish and will provide essential data relevant to indigenous food security and long-term acoustic datasets needed to inform effective management. I am also currently working on projects in Hong Kong, New Zealand, Australia and the United Kingdom.
I have a BSc in Biological Sciences, specializing in Marine Science and a PhD in Marine Science from the University of Auckland, New Zealand. During my PhD studies and after graduating I worked in industry as an acoustician in New Zealand before working as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Chinese Academy of Science's Institute of Hydrobiology in China. I am now a Mitacs Postdoctoral Fellow at the Juanes Lab, working closely with Jasco Applied Sciences Ltd. My research is on the distribution of fish species in the western Canadian Arctic, with a particular focus on a keystone species, the Arctic cod (Boreogadus saida) using passive acoustic monitoring. Using statistical and acoustic modelling we hope to predict the potential impacts of anthropogenic noise and environmental changes on fish distributions. This work will be the first to investigate the ecoacoustics of Canadian Arctic fish and will provide essential data relevant to indigenous food security and long-term acoustic datasets needed to inform effective management. I am also currently working on projects in Hong Kong, New Zealand, Australia and the United Kingdom.
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Amalis Riera - Research Associate
Amalis is a Biologist from Spain who came to Canada in 2009 to do an MSc. in killer whale acoustics. Since then she's been doing research for DFO analysing acoustic recordings looking for marine mammals and participating in BC cetacean surveys in the summer. Her current research in the Juanes lab focuses on fish acoustics. She is investigating the presence and seasonality of fish sounds at the Bowie Seamount Marine Protected Area and will correlate these results with those from a MEOPAR-funded project that is measuring and monitoring the levels of anthropogenic noise at the same location. The ultimate goal is to investigate the effects of anthropogenic sounds on fishes at the Bowie Seamount MPA. |
Jessica Qualley - Lab manager
I help with the day-to-day lab operations, field logistics and administrative tasks that maintain lab ecosystem function. I am committed to helping our students access the resources and tools they need to achieve their research objectives. The best part about my job is spending time on the water, working on different projects and tackling new challenges. Everyday I am learning and understanding more about the marine environment through the eyes of our passionate and hard-working Juanes lab members.
I help with the day-to-day lab operations, field logistics and administrative tasks that maintain lab ecosystem function. I am committed to helping our students access the resources and tools they need to achieve their research objectives. The best part about my job is spending time on the water, working on different projects and tackling new challenges. Everyday I am learning and understanding more about the marine environment through the eyes of our passionate and hard-working Juanes lab members.
Katie Innes - Lab manager
I help with the day-to-day lab operations, field logistics and administrative tasks that maintain lab ecosystem function. I am committed to helping our students access the resources and tools they need to achieve their research objectives. The best part about my job is spending time on the water, working on different projects and tackling new challenges. Everyday I am learning and understanding more about the marine environment through the eyes of our passionate and hard-working Juanes lab members.
I help with the day-to-day lab operations, field logistics and administrative tasks that maintain lab ecosystem function. I am committed to helping our students access the resources and tools they need to achieve their research objectives. The best part about my job is spending time on the water, working on different projects and tackling new challenges. Everyday I am learning and understanding more about the marine environment through the eyes of our passionate and hard-working Juanes lab members.
Will Duguid - PhD Student
Will is interested in fine scale spatial and temporal patterns of habitat use by Pacific Salmon in their first year at sea. These patterns determine how juvenile salmon experience bottom up and top down regulators of first year survival; which in turn may be the primary drivers of variable recruitment in a changing ocean. Will's current focus is understanding how juvenile Chinook Salmon distribution, diet and growth are influenced by the gradients of tidal mixing and water column stratification that are conspicuous characteristics of the inside waters of the Salish Sea.
Will is interested in fine scale spatial and temporal patterns of habitat use by Pacific Salmon in their first year at sea. These patterns determine how juvenile salmon experience bottom up and top down regulators of first year survival; which in turn may be the primary drivers of variable recruitment in a changing ocean. Will's current focus is understanding how juvenile Chinook Salmon distribution, diet and growth are influenced by the gradients of tidal mixing and water column stratification that are conspicuous characteristics of the inside waters of the Salish Sea.
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Morgan Black-PhD Student
With the support of the EIRP lab (VIU), the Juanes lab (UVIC), and the Hakai Institute, Morgan will be looking at the fish and mobile invertebrate communities found on clam gardens in several sites on the BC coast. She has a very broad range of interests from bats to benthos. Biodiversity and ecological interactions link many of her interests together, and coastal ecology allows her to be in her favorite place in the world... the ocean. See her website here |
Kieran Cox - PhD Student
Kieran’s graduate research is a collaborative effort between the Juanes Lab, the Ecological Interactions Research Program and the Hakai Institute, and seeks to investigate the potential effects of both traditional and contemporary shellfish aquaculture on marine biodiversity. Kieran and the Ecological Interactions Research Program have surveyed 24 First Nations clam gardens, shellfish farms, and unmodified habitats within multiple regions (Quadra Island, Baynes Sound, and Calvert Island) for the last two years. Kieran is now in the process of determining how marine species respond to these habitat modifications. Visit his website here.
Kieran’s graduate research is a collaborative effort between the Juanes Lab, the Ecological Interactions Research Program and the Hakai Institute, and seeks to investigate the potential effects of both traditional and contemporary shellfish aquaculture on marine biodiversity. Kieran and the Ecological Interactions Research Program have surveyed 24 First Nations clam gardens, shellfish farms, and unmodified habitats within multiple regions (Quadra Island, Baynes Sound, and Calvert Island) for the last two years. Kieran is now in the process of determining how marine species respond to these habitat modifications. Visit his website here.
Xavier Mouy - PhD Student
I am interested in studying underwater sounds from marine fauna and anthropogenic activities. I have been involved in the development of monitoring tools to automatically detect, identify and localize marine mammals using passive acoustics. My project, part of CHONe 2, focuses on studying sounds produced by fish in British Columbia. I will use simultaneous acoustic and video recordings to associate fish sounds to specific species and behaviors. Fish will be localised acoustically in three dimensions using a compact array of hydrophones to determine movement, calling rates, and source levels for individual fish. The influence of noise on fish communication will also be investigated. Check out my 3 minute thesis presentation here. Runner-up!
I am interested in studying underwater sounds from marine fauna and anthropogenic activities. I have been involved in the development of monitoring tools to automatically detect, identify and localize marine mammals using passive acoustics. My project, part of CHONe 2, focuses on studying sounds produced by fish in British Columbia. I will use simultaneous acoustic and video recordings to associate fish sounds to specific species and behaviors. Fish will be localised acoustically in three dimensions using a compact array of hydrophones to determine movement, calling rates, and source levels for individual fish. The influence of noise on fish communication will also be investigated. Check out my 3 minute thesis presentation here. Runner-up!
Rhonda Reidy- PhD Student
My interests lie in quantifying predator-prey dynamics in a realistic habitat context to reduce uncertainty. In British Columbia, increasing numbers of humpback whales are found in coastal areas associated with high biological productivity of importance to fisheries. I’m therefore investigating complex prey parameters relative to 3-dimensional humpback whale behavior underwater, using a multi-sensor tag attached via suction cups and concurrent measures of prey from scientific echo-sounders.
My interests lie in quantifying predator-prey dynamics in a realistic habitat context to reduce uncertainty. In British Columbia, increasing numbers of humpback whales are found in coastal areas associated with high biological productivity of importance to fisheries. I’m therefore investigating complex prey parameters relative to 3-dimensional humpback whale behavior underwater, using a multi-sensor tag attached via suction cups and concurrent measures of prey from scientific echo-sounders.
Leigh Gaffney - PhD Student
Leigh’s background is in animal welfare science and behaviour. She is particularly interested in questions that address how fish welfare, policy, and conservation efforts meet. Leigh’s project, part of CHONe 2, will investigate the impacts hatchery-rearing practices may have on Coho Salmon otolith development and how this influences the hearing abilities, behaviours, and survival of hatchery-reared salmon. Otoliths are essential components of the sensory organs that enable all teleost fish to hear and maintain balance, and are primarily composed of calcium carbonate. Previous research has shown that the otoliths of hatchery-reared salmon possess higher percentages of “abnormal” (an abnormal polymorph of calcium carbonate) or vateritic otoliths in comparison to wild salmon. These vateritic otoliths may reduce otolith function and cause hearing loss in salmon; potentially leading to negative fish welfare and reduced survival. However, little research has been done to investigate the effects of vateritic otoliths on fish or what environmental rearing practices might cause vateritic otoliths to form.
Leigh’s background is in animal welfare science and behaviour. She is particularly interested in questions that address how fish welfare, policy, and conservation efforts meet. Leigh’s project, part of CHONe 2, will investigate the impacts hatchery-rearing practices may have on Coho Salmon otolith development and how this influences the hearing abilities, behaviours, and survival of hatchery-reared salmon. Otoliths are essential components of the sensory organs that enable all teleost fish to hear and maintain balance, and are primarily composed of calcium carbonate. Previous research has shown that the otoliths of hatchery-reared salmon possess higher percentages of “abnormal” (an abnormal polymorph of calcium carbonate) or vateritic otoliths in comparison to wild salmon. These vateritic otoliths may reduce otolith function and cause hearing loss in salmon; potentially leading to negative fish welfare and reduced survival. However, little research has been done to investigate the effects of vateritic otoliths on fish or what environmental rearing practices might cause vateritic otoliths to form.
Micah Quindazzi - MSc Student
My research primarily focuses on the factors influencing the migratory behaviour of coho salmon and using new techniques in the field of otolith morphometrics. I have developed a method using otolith microchemistry to detect microchemical patterns related to different migration strategies, and I am then looking at the genetic and environmental effects that influence migration. I also look at the use of automated, 3D, μCT scanning to increase the throughput and quality of otolith morphometric data to answer a variety of ecological questions.
My research primarily focuses on the factors influencing the migratory behaviour of coho salmon and using new techniques in the field of otolith morphometrics. I have developed a method using otolith microchemistry to detect microchemical patterns related to different migration strategies, and I am then looking at the genetic and environmental effects that influence migration. I also look at the use of automated, 3D, μCT scanning to increase the throughput and quality of otolith morphometric data to answer a variety of ecological questions.
Jill Campbell - MSc Student
Marine biodiversity data are limited due to the challenging, dangerous, and time-intensive methods of collecting species diversity and abundance data. My research will determine the applicability of using tidal current as a proxy for fish biodiversity in data limited areas and establish its value as an ecological indicator for use in marine conservation efforts. Ten sites with varying current regimes in the Southern Gulf Islands of British Columbia will be surveyed using SCUBA and the fish community compositions will be quantified based on the abundances and biomass of fish species encountered. Environmental data, such as substrate type, temperature, salinity, and current, will also be collected. These data will be analyzed to determine if there are differences in fish community composition based on current conditions, or among the other environmental metrics collected.
Marine biodiversity data are limited due to the challenging, dangerous, and time-intensive methods of collecting species diversity and abundance data. My research will determine the applicability of using tidal current as a proxy for fish biodiversity in data limited areas and establish its value as an ecological indicator for use in marine conservation efforts. Ten sites with varying current regimes in the Southern Gulf Islands of British Columbia will be surveyed using SCUBA and the fish community compositions will be quantified based on the abundances and biomass of fish species encountered. Environmental data, such as substrate type, temperature, salinity, and current, will also be collected. These data will be analyzed to determine if there are differences in fish community composition based on current conditions, or among the other environmental metrics collected.
Mackenzie Woods - MSc Student
My research focuses on fish behaviour and acoustic communication. I am currently studying the impact of marine noise pollution on plainfin midshipman fish (Porichthys notatus), which nest in the intertidal and rely on acoustic courtship for reproduction. I am particularly interested in the potential consequences for communication and social dynamics. My research will further our understanding of how marine animals respond to anthropogenic noise in their natural habitats. Check out my 3 minute thesis presentation here.
My research focuses on fish behaviour and acoustic communication. I am currently studying the impact of marine noise pollution on plainfin midshipman fish (Porichthys notatus), which nest in the intertidal and rely on acoustic courtship for reproduction. I am particularly interested in the potential consequences for communication and social dynamics. My research will further our understanding of how marine animals respond to anthropogenic noise in their natural habitats. Check out my 3 minute thesis presentation here.
Kelsie Murchy - PhD Student
Pacific salmon and Southern Resident killer whales are important species in southern British Columbia, and their decline has increased public awareness and research. My project is aimed to evaluate the impacts of shipping noise on Chinook salmon behaviour and physiology, preferred prey of southern resident killer whales. Chinook salmon will also be exposed to southern resident killer whale vocalizations to determine their sensitivity and characterize any predator avoidance. I am also recording a variety of Pacific salmon in a semi-natural environment to evaluate the presence of vocalizations.
Pacific salmon and Southern Resident killer whales are important species in southern British Columbia, and their decline has increased public awareness and research. My project is aimed to evaluate the impacts of shipping noise on Chinook salmon behaviour and physiology, preferred prey of southern resident killer whales. Chinook salmon will also be exposed to southern resident killer whale vocalizations to determine their sensitivity and characterize any predator avoidance. I am also recording a variety of Pacific salmon in a semi-natural environment to evaluate the presence of vocalizations.
Juanes UVic Lab grad student alumni
Rob Bourdon - MSc Student
Rob is an MSc student co-advised by Francis Juanes and Sarah Dudas. Along with fellow MSc student Brenna, he investigates the effects of shellfish aquaculture on fish communities in the Baynes Sound region of Vancouver Island. Baynes Sound is one of the most intensely farmed regions of British Columbia, and the industry is growing. However, little is known about how shellfish farming may be affecting fish populations, diversity, or recruitment.
Rob is an MSc student co-advised by Francis Juanes and Sarah Dudas. Along with fellow MSc student Brenna, he investigates the effects of shellfish aquaculture on fish communities in the Baynes Sound region of Vancouver Island. Baynes Sound is one of the most intensely farmed regions of British Columbia, and the industry is growing. However, little is known about how shellfish farming may be affecting fish populations, diversity, or recruitment.
Brenna Collicutt - MSc Student
Brenna's research focuses on ecological interactions between shellfish aquaculture and juvenile Pacific salmon in Baynes Sound, BC. Shellfish aquaculture has become a prominent feature in this area and requires modification to intertidal habitats. Because these areas are also rearing grounds for juvenile Pacific salmon, it is important to understand how this change in habitat complexity may influence these species at a critical time in their lifecycles. More specifically, Brenna will be investigating relative salmon abundance, diet composition and potential microplastic ingestion across aquaculture and comparative non-aquaculture sites.
Brenna's research focuses on ecological interactions between shellfish aquaculture and juvenile Pacific salmon in Baynes Sound, BC. Shellfish aquaculture has become a prominent feature in this area and requires modification to intertidal habitats. Because these areas are also rearing grounds for juvenile Pacific salmon, it is important to understand how this change in habitat complexity may influence these species at a critical time in their lifecycles. More specifically, Brenna will be investigating relative salmon abundance, diet composition and potential microplastic ingestion across aquaculture and comparative non-aquaculture sites.
Laura Kennedy - MSc Student
Laura is interested in the role of seagrasses in the early marine survival of juvenile salmon. She aims to quantify the effects of damage and change on seagrass ecosystem capacities by comparing prey abundance across a gradient of seagrass health. Laura will also use isotope analysis and prey gut contents to determine the relationship between juvenile salmon and prey found in seagrasses, and hopes to provide critical information pertaining to questions about early marine salmon ecology.
Laura is interested in the role of seagrasses in the early marine survival of juvenile salmon. She aims to quantify the effects of damage and change on seagrass ecosystem capacities by comparing prey abundance across a gradient of seagrass health. Laura will also use isotope analysis and prey gut contents to determine the relationship between juvenile salmon and prey found in seagrasses, and hopes to provide critical information pertaining to questions about early marine salmon ecology.
Mary Toews - MSc Student
In much of Alberta, oil and gas exploration has over time left a dense configuration of industrial linear features across the landscape. Such landscape change has the potential to alter wildlife behaviour, movement and relationships, and thus has implications for conservation and wildlife management. Mary, who is co-supervised by Francis Juanes and Cole Burton, is interested in using camera traps to explore the responses of wildlife to seismic line restoration treatments in northeastern Alberta. She plans to use camera traps and GIS analysis to explore wildlife responses such as the effect of treatments on predator-prey relationships, species relative abundance between treatments and the role of human activity in wildlife response.
In much of Alberta, oil and gas exploration has over time left a dense configuration of industrial linear features across the landscape. Such landscape change has the potential to alter wildlife behaviour, movement and relationships, and thus has implications for conservation and wildlife management. Mary, who is co-supervised by Francis Juanes and Cole Burton, is interested in using camera traps to explore the responses of wildlife to seismic line restoration treatments in northeastern Alberta. She plans to use camera traps and GIS analysis to explore wildlife responses such as the effect of treatments on predator-prey relationships, species relative abundance between treatments and the role of human activity in wildlife response.
Jessica Holden-MSc Student
Accumulations of beach-cast sea grasses, seaweeds and other matter, collectively known as wrack, play an important role within the marine-terrestrial ecotone. Jess’ current research is focused on understanding the contribution of an introduced species of red algae, Mazzaella japonica, to the spatial subsidy provided by wrack in Deep Bay, BC. Commercially harvested from beaches within this region for its carrageenan content, her research will also examine how the removal of M. japonica influences wrack characteristics and macrofauna community structure. Jess hopes this research will contribute to our understanding of how introduced macroalgae affect recipient beach communities, while also informing decision-making processes pertaining to the commercial harvesting of beach-cast seaweeds.
Accumulations of beach-cast sea grasses, seaweeds and other matter, collectively known as wrack, play an important role within the marine-terrestrial ecotone. Jess’ current research is focused on understanding the contribution of an introduced species of red algae, Mazzaella japonica, to the spatial subsidy provided by wrack in Deep Bay, BC. Commercially harvested from beaches within this region for its carrageenan content, her research will also examine how the removal of M. japonica influences wrack characteristics and macrofauna community structure. Jess hopes this research will contribute to our understanding of how introduced macroalgae affect recipient beach communities, while also informing decision-making processes pertaining to the commercial harvesting of beach-cast seaweeds.
Anne Shaffer - PhD Student
Anne's PhD work focuses on the ecosystem function of Pacific Northwest nearshore systems, the role anthropogenic forcing plays in drift cell function and restoration. Her research emphasis is on the Elwha nearshore, located on the north Central Olympic Peninsula of Washington state , which is currently undergoing a world scale restoration event due to delivery of approximately 17 mcm of sediment from the removal of two large in river dams. Dam removal began in 2011 and is scheduled to be complete in 2014. With one of the few pre-dam removal nearshore data sets, Anne's research emphasizes juvenile fish use response to nearshore ecosystem changes in Elwha estuary, shoreline, and kelp bed habitats through a ‘before after control impact’ (BACI) strategy. Anne also coordinates the Elwha Nearshore Consortium, and is the executive director of the Coastal Watershed Institute (CWI), a small science based non-profit formed in 1996. Visit her website here
Anne's PhD work focuses on the ecosystem function of Pacific Northwest nearshore systems, the role anthropogenic forcing plays in drift cell function and restoration. Her research emphasis is on the Elwha nearshore, located on the north Central Olympic Peninsula of Washington state , which is currently undergoing a world scale restoration event due to delivery of approximately 17 mcm of sediment from the removal of two large in river dams. Dam removal began in 2011 and is scheduled to be complete in 2014. With one of the few pre-dam removal nearshore data sets, Anne's research emphasizes juvenile fish use response to nearshore ecosystem changes in Elwha estuary, shoreline, and kelp bed habitats through a ‘before after control impact’ (BACI) strategy. Anne also coordinates the Elwha Nearshore Consortium, and is the executive director of the Coastal Watershed Institute (CWI), a small science based non-profit formed in 1996. Visit her website here
Angeleen Olson-MSc Student
Angeleen is a MSc student and Hakai Scholar with a background in nearshore marine ecology and conservation. Her interests include food web ecology, predator-prey dynamics, nutrient cycling, and marine spatial planning. In collaboration with the Hakai Institute, her thesis will examine habitat heterogeneity and connectivity effects of seagrass and kelp forests ecosystems on nearshore fish communities. As marine macrophyte assemblages in BC are undergoing a host of changes, from climate change to expanding sea otter ranges, Angeleen aims to understand how nearshore fish are affected by habitat changes using underwater visual surveys, experimental manipulation, and stable isotope techniques. Visit her website here.
Angeleen is a MSc student and Hakai Scholar with a background in nearshore marine ecology and conservation. Her interests include food web ecology, predator-prey dynamics, nutrient cycling, and marine spatial planning. In collaboration with the Hakai Institute, her thesis will examine habitat heterogeneity and connectivity effects of seagrass and kelp forests ecosystems on nearshore fish communities. As marine macrophyte assemblages in BC are undergoing a host of changes, from climate change to expanding sea otter ranges, Angeleen aims to understand how nearshore fish are affected by habitat changes using underwater visual surveys, experimental manipulation, and stable isotope techniques. Visit her website here.
Cameron Freshwater - PhD Student
Cam's research interests include juvenile growth, mechanisms influencing recruitment variability, interspecific interactions, and community diversity. Currently he is using otolith microstructure techniques to examine how the migration of immature sockeye salmon from southern British Columbia to the Gulf of Alaska is impacted by body size and shifting growth rates. This will provide important information regarding sockeye life history and highlight potential drivers of juvenile mortality at sea
Cam's research interests include juvenile growth, mechanisms influencing recruitment variability, interspecific interactions, and community diversity. Currently he is using otolith microstructure techniques to examine how the migration of immature sockeye salmon from southern British Columbia to the Gulf of Alaska is impacted by body size and shifting growth rates. This will provide important information regarding sockeye life history and highlight potential drivers of juvenile mortality at sea
Annika Heimrich- MSc Student
I recently conducted my master thesis at Francis Juanes lab, working with one of his Postdocs William Halliday. As my master program is originally an European Erasmus Master for Marine Biodiversity and Conservation (EMBC+) I got really lucky throughout the last two years travelling the world. I spent the first two semester at the University of Algarve in Portugal focusing on aquatic ecosystems and their dynamics, scientific diving as well as fisheries management. For the third semester I further moved to Ireland and participated in courses in underwater acoustic, GIS and ecology of marine top predators at the Institute of Technology in Galway. The last stop within my masters was at the University of Victoria, Canada which is a partner university of my study program.
Working on ambient noise impact by bearded seals (Erignathus barbatus) in the Arctic within the last half year, I gained lots of well founded knowledge in using acoustic software as well as how to work with acoustic equipment and extracted data. Summed up, this Masters program was the perfect choice for me as I was not only able to stay abroad in different countries but also got to know a variety of research groups and their work. I absolutely appreciated the chance to stay and work in Francis Juanes' team and it was an amazing time.
I recently conducted my master thesis at Francis Juanes lab, working with one of his Postdocs William Halliday. As my master program is originally an European Erasmus Master for Marine Biodiversity and Conservation (EMBC+) I got really lucky throughout the last two years travelling the world. I spent the first two semester at the University of Algarve in Portugal focusing on aquatic ecosystems and their dynamics, scientific diving as well as fisheries management. For the third semester I further moved to Ireland and participated in courses in underwater acoustic, GIS and ecology of marine top predators at the Institute of Technology in Galway. The last stop within my masters was at the University of Victoria, Canada which is a partner university of my study program.
Working on ambient noise impact by bearded seals (Erignathus barbatus) in the Arctic within the last half year, I gained lots of well founded knowledge in using acoustic software as well as how to work with acoustic equipment and extracted data. Summed up, this Masters program was the perfect choice for me as I was not only able to stay abroad in different countries but also got to know a variety of research groups and their work. I absolutely appreciated the chance to stay and work in Francis Juanes' team and it was an amazing time.
Amy Teffer - PhD Student
Amy’s research lies in the realm of disease ecology. She examines how individual and combined stressors affect the pathogenesis of microbes carried by adult Pacific salmon during spawning migration. Increased rates of adult salmon mortality prior to migration completion and spawning have raised concerns about the potential role of disease in this phenomenon, especially in the face of climate change and increasing demand for fisheries resources. Amy intends to characterize the mechanisms of disease development and premature mortality of wild salmon by examining pathogen expression and host responses within individuals over time. She uses molecular tools to quantify changes in host physiological status as well as microbe composition and productivity in response to thermal stress and fisheries capture and release. Visit her website here
Amy’s research lies in the realm of disease ecology. She examines how individual and combined stressors affect the pathogenesis of microbes carried by adult Pacific salmon during spawning migration. Increased rates of adult salmon mortality prior to migration completion and spawning have raised concerns about the potential role of disease in this phenomenon, especially in the face of climate change and increasing demand for fisheries resources. Amy intends to characterize the mechanisms of disease development and premature mortality of wild salmon by examining pathogen expression and host responses within individuals over time. She uses molecular tools to quantify changes in host physiological status as well as microbe composition and productivity in response to thermal stress and fisheries capture and release. Visit her website here
Mauricio Carrasquilla - PhD Student
Mangrove ecosystems are being lost at high rates across the world despite their importance as habitats for a number of marine and terrestrial organisms and the ecosystem services they provide. Historically, mangroves have been thought to support artisanal fisheries however most of the mechanisms underlying this relationship are unclear. In a lagoon system in Colombia, SA, I am studying the mangrove and fishery relationship from different perspectives such as the ecological relationships of mangroves and fish, and Traditional and Local Knowledge to determine to what extent mangroves support fisheries and are important for fishermen.
Mangrove ecosystems are being lost at high rates across the world despite their importance as habitats for a number of marine and terrestrial organisms and the ecosystem services they provide. Historically, mangroves have been thought to support artisanal fisheries however most of the mechanisms underlying this relationship are unclear. In a lagoon system in Colombia, SA, I am studying the mangrove and fishery relationship from different perspectives such as the ecological relationships of mangroves and fish, and Traditional and Local Knowledge to determine to what extent mangroves support fisheries and are important for fishermen.
Lily Campbell- MSc Student
My research focuses on the community dynamics of mudflats and sandy shores on the coast of Northern British Columbia. I will be comparing community composition of infaunal invertebrates and abiotic parameters such as sediment properties of beaches in Prince Rupert, Kitimat and Arthur Island. I will also be working to understand the relative importance of biological and abiotic factors in structuring these communities, as well as how disturbance alters the infaunal communities.
My research focuses on the community dynamics of mudflats and sandy shores on the coast of Northern British Columbia. I will be comparing community composition of infaunal invertebrates and abiotic parameters such as sediment properties of beaches in Prince Rupert, Kitimat and Arthur Island. I will also be working to understand the relative importance of biological and abiotic factors in structuring these communities, as well as how disturbance alters the infaunal communities.
Jacob Weil - MSc Student
Jacob’s research interests include food web ecology and nutrient/energy transfer as they apply to the early marine growth of juvenile Chinook salmon. Specifically, he focusses on determining the role of prey quality in the growth of juvenile salmon. His Masters research examines how the energy content of different prey varies across time and related species. His research will contribute to the growing body of knowledge regarding how bottom-up drivers affect the growth and ultimate survival of Chinook salmon in the Salish Sea.
Jacob’s research interests include food web ecology and nutrient/energy transfer as they apply to the early marine growth of juvenile Chinook salmon. Specifically, he focusses on determining the role of prey quality in the growth of juvenile salmon. His Masters research examines how the energy content of different prey varies across time and related species. His research will contribute to the growing body of knowledge regarding how bottom-up drivers affect the growth and ultimate survival of Chinook salmon in the Salish Sea.
Nick Brown - MSc Student
I grew up in St. John's, NL, surrounded by the North Atlantic Ocean—my curiosity about the marine world was driven by its frigid, mysterious waters. For my B.Sc. thesis, I studied variation in antipredator responses of orange-footed sea cucumbers (Cucumaria frondosa) living along a hydrodynamic gradient. My M.Sc. research examines habitat-selection strategies employed by care-giving plainfin midshipman fish (Porichthys notatus) along an intertidal elevation gradient. This work will help uncover how parents balance trade-offs between their own needs, and those of their offspring. Additionally, rising sea levels are threatening to erode sandy beaches faster than they can naturally migrate inland, so my research will highlight challenges that may arise as this habitat is lost.
I grew up in St. John's, NL, surrounded by the North Atlantic Ocean—my curiosity about the marine world was driven by its frigid, mysterious waters. For my B.Sc. thesis, I studied variation in antipredator responses of orange-footed sea cucumbers (Cucumaria frondosa) living along a hydrodynamic gradient. My M.Sc. research examines habitat-selection strategies employed by care-giving plainfin midshipman fish (Porichthys notatus) along an intertidal elevation gradient. This work will help uncover how parents balance trade-offs between their own needs, and those of their offspring. Additionally, rising sea levels are threatening to erode sandy beaches faster than they can naturally migrate inland, so my research will highlight challenges that may arise as this habitat is lost.
Kat Nikolich - PhD Student
Kat’s primary focus is investigating the impact of anthropogenic noise on marine animals, especially long-term exposure to boat noise from shipping, fishing, and other activities. Her previous research has focussed on characterizing the vocalizations produced by marine mammals, including harbour seals and baleen whales. Her PhD work, part of the CHONe 2 project, is co-supervised by Dr. Juanes and Dr. Corey Morris (DFO-Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Centre). Her research will focus on measuring the amount of anthropogenic noise experienced by commercially-important fish species in BC and Newfoundand, as well as designing experiments to actually test the effects of such noise levels on the behavioural biology of the fish. Kat is also interested in investigating the effect of boat noise on the foraging efficiency of threatened populations of killer whales in BC. She hopes that her findings will help to better manage and protect at-risk marine species, and to support sustainable use and exploration of ocean-based resources in Canada.
Kat’s primary focus is investigating the impact of anthropogenic noise on marine animals, especially long-term exposure to boat noise from shipping, fishing, and other activities. Her previous research has focussed on characterizing the vocalizations produced by marine mammals, including harbour seals and baleen whales. Her PhD work, part of the CHONe 2 project, is co-supervised by Dr. Juanes and Dr. Corey Morris (DFO-Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Centre). Her research will focus on measuring the amount of anthropogenic noise experienced by commercially-important fish species in BC and Newfoundand, as well as designing experiments to actually test the effects of such noise levels on the behavioural biology of the fish. Kat is also interested in investigating the effect of boat noise on the foraging efficiency of threatened populations of killer whales in BC. She hopes that her findings will help to better manage and protect at-risk marine species, and to support sustainable use and exploration of ocean-based resources in Canada.
Travis Gerwing - Postdoctoral Fellow
I am an Ecosystem Ecologist who utilizes molecular, ecological, and statistical methods to understand forces that structure our environments. I am currently working with Dr. Juanes to study intertidal ecosystems along the coast of British Columbia, Canada. We are interested in understanding the relative importance of biological (predator/prey interactions, competition, etc) and abiotic forces (wave energy, salinity, etc.) in structuring intertidal ecosystems. Using nonparametric statistical models we hope to holistically understand the forces that structure ecosystems, and how the relative importance of these forces varies over time and space. More practically, we are also monitoring infaunal communities of intertidal systems, using these indicators as an early-warning system for coastal disturbance. We hope to potentially detect disturbances (human or natural) in the infaunal community, before other species further up the food web, such as salmon or shellfish, are impacted. Visit his website here
I am an Ecosystem Ecologist who utilizes molecular, ecological, and statistical methods to understand forces that structure our environments. I am currently working with Dr. Juanes to study intertidal ecosystems along the coast of British Columbia, Canada. We are interested in understanding the relative importance of biological (predator/prey interactions, competition, etc) and abiotic forces (wave energy, salinity, etc.) in structuring intertidal ecosystems. Using nonparametric statistical models we hope to holistically understand the forces that structure ecosystems, and how the relative importance of these forces varies over time and space. More practically, we are also monitoring infaunal communities of intertidal systems, using these indicators as an early-warning system for coastal disturbance. We hope to potentially detect disturbances (human or natural) in the infaunal community, before other species further up the food web, such as salmon or shellfish, are impacted. Visit his website here
Honours students
Ben Fortini (2019-2020)
Kennedy Bolstad (2019-2020)
Madeleine Springle (2019-2020)
Talen Rimmer (2018-2019)
Kenzie Woods (2018-2019)
Eva MacLennan (2016-2017)
Olivia McMillan (2013-2014)
Nicole Soderberg (2014-2015)
Ben Fortini (2019-2020)
Kennedy Bolstad (2019-2020)
Madeleine Springle (2019-2020)
Talen Rimmer (2018-2019)
Kenzie Woods (2018-2019)
Eva MacLennan (2016-2017)
Olivia McMillan (2013-2014)
Nicole Soderberg (2014-2015)
Lab Manager
Jessica Qualley, 2017-present
Katie Innes, 2020-present
Visiting Scientists
Erica Staaterman, 2016
Rodney Rountree, 2016, 2017, 2019
Eva Garcia-Vazquez, 2013
Visiting Graduate Students
Hamid Marvasti (2015-2016), UBC
Victor Crego (2012-2013), Univ. Oviedo
Directed Studies Students:
Emie Woodburn (Fall 2019)
Courtney Evin (Fall 2019)
Mica Smith (Fall 2019)
Stephanie Spencer (Spring 2019)
Brian Timmer (Spring 2019)
Nick Bohlender (Spring 2019)
Jeanine Sinclair (Spring 2018)
Kai Mountford (Spring 2018)
Fabrizio Abate (Spring 2018)
Niallan O'Brien (Fall 2017)
Hailey Shaffer (Summer 2017)
Hailey Davies (Winter 2017)
Quinn Lowen (Fall 2016)
Rylan Command (Winter 2016)
Lawrence Brennan (Winter 2016)
Lily Campbell (Winter 2016)
Jacob Weil (Fall 2015)
Gillian-Sadlier-Brown (Fall 2014)
Kendra Moore (Winter 2014)
Victoria Reid (Winter 2014)
Kelcy Tousignant (Winter 2014)
Olivia McMillan (Fall 2012)
NSERC USRA Fellows
Ben Fortini (Summer 2020)
Brian Timmer (Summer 2019)
Hailey Davies (Winter 2018)
Lily Campbell (Summer 2016)
Kieran Cox (Winter 2015)
SURA Fellows
Hailey Davies (Summer 2017)
Lab assistants
Esley Greentree (2020-present)
Nick Bohlender (2019-present)
Wendy Fleming (2018-2019)
Micah Quindazzi (2018-2019)
Hailey Shafer (2018-2019)
Lucas Agagnier (2018-2019)
Hailey Davies (Summer 2018-present)
Katie Innes (Summer 2017-present)
Lily Campbell (2016-2017)
Jacob Weil (2015-2016)
Jessica Qualley (2015-2017)
Work Study Students:
Erin Woodley (2019-2020)
Lucas Agagnier (2018-19)
Karle Zelmer (2017-18)
Lili Simon (Fall 2015)
Kristen Powell (Fall 2014)
Victoria Reid (Fall 2013)
Hutton Fellows
Madeline Mittelsteadt (Summer 2019)
MeiLin Precourt (Summer 2018)
Amanda Noel (Summer 2014)
High School Students
May Constabel (Summer 2015)
MITACS summer students
Santiago Gonzalez Bravo (2019), Brazil
Iamania Vergara Perez (2019), Mexico
Jessica Borba (2016), Brazil
Yovela Wang (2015), China
Marcos Vinicius (2014), Brazil
Volunteers:
Lucas Agagnier (Spring 2018)
Rehan Sayeed (Fall 2015)
Rylan Command (2015-2016)
Eva MacLennan (2015-2016)
Sam Tait (Fall 2015)
Lauren Krzus (Fall 2015)
Maria Morrison (Fall 2015)
Gillian-Sadlier-Brown (Fall 2015)
Ashley Neiswender (Summer 2013)
Stephen Trotter (2013-2014)
Chorong Kim (2013 -2014)
Kendra Moore (2013-2014)
Jessie Bell (Fall 2013)
Past Students:
MSc:
Katie (Anderson) Burchard, Study Fleet Program Specialist, NEFSC Cooperative Research Program, katie.burchard at noaa.gov
Paul Clark, Biological Sciences Technician, NEFSC Milford Lab, paul.clark at noaa.gov
Peter Clarke, Fisheries Biologist, NJ Division of Fish & Wildlife, peter.clarke at dep.state.nj.us
Nikolai Klibansky, NRC Postdoc, NOAA-NMFS, Beaufort Lab, nikolai.klibansky at noaa.gov
Gonzalo Mendez, Biological Technician, US Forest Service
John Murt, Owner, North Cornish Catch: teaching sustainability in fisheries, http://www.northcornishcatch.co.uk
Gabe Gries, Fish Biologist, Warmwater Project Leader, NH Fish & Game Department, gabe.gries at wildlife.nh.gov
Brian Hanrahan
Dave Howe, Instructional Technology Specialist, Lecturer in Department of Ecology & Evolution, Rutgers University, howe at aesop.rutgers.edu
Aly McKnight, Seabird Biologist, US Fish & Wildlife Service
Sarah Martinez, Researcher, MA Audubon Society, Cape Cod
Paul Nitschke, Statistician, NOAA-NMFS-NEFSC, Woods Hole Lab, Population Dynamics Branch, paul.nitschke at noaa.gov
Lisa Yako, Freelance writer, Co-owner of Historical Research Partners
PhD:
David Stormer, Postdoc, Florida International University, dstormer at fiu.edu
Megan O'Connor, Postdoc, NOAA-NMFS-NEFSC, Narragansett Lab, megan.oconnor at noaa.gov
Michelle Staudinger, Science Coordinator, DOI Northeast Climate Science Center, https://necsc.umass.edu/people/michelle-staudinger
Rebecca Jordan, Professor, Department of Ecology, Evolution & Natural Resources, Rutgers Univ., http://www.rebeccajordan.org/
John Manderson,Research Fishery Biologist, NOAA-NMFS-NEFSC, Sandy Hook Lab, Behavioral Ecology Branch, john.manderson at noaa.gov
Fred Scharf, Professor, Department of Biology & Marine Biology, Univ. N Carolina Wilmington, http://uncw.edu/bio/faculty_scharf.html
Postdoctoral Fellows:
Brad Blackwell, Research Wildlife Biologist, National Wildlife Research Center, http://www.aphis.usda.gov/wildlife_damage/nwrc/scientists/blackwell.shtml
Jeff Buckel, Professor, Department of Biology, NC State University, http://cmast.ncsu.edu/buckel/
Karen Kellogg, Associate Professor, Environmental Studies, Skidmore College, http://www.skidmore.edu/environmental_studies/faculty/kellogg.php
Mark Tupper, Professor, University of Trinidad and Tobago, Port of Spain, https://u.tt/website_content_staff_profile.php?staff_key=2816
Carrie Wall, Research Scientist, Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences, Univ. Colorado-Boulder, carrie.bell at colorado.edu
Hui-Yu Wang, Assistant Professor, National Taiwan University, Taipei, huiyuwang at ntu.edu.tw
Jessica Qualley, 2017-present
Katie Innes, 2020-present
Visiting Scientists
Erica Staaterman, 2016
Rodney Rountree, 2016, 2017, 2019
Eva Garcia-Vazquez, 2013
Visiting Graduate Students
Hamid Marvasti (2015-2016), UBC
Victor Crego (2012-2013), Univ. Oviedo
Directed Studies Students:
Emie Woodburn (Fall 2019)
Courtney Evin (Fall 2019)
Mica Smith (Fall 2019)
Stephanie Spencer (Spring 2019)
Brian Timmer (Spring 2019)
Nick Bohlender (Spring 2019)
Jeanine Sinclair (Spring 2018)
Kai Mountford (Spring 2018)
Fabrizio Abate (Spring 2018)
Niallan O'Brien (Fall 2017)
Hailey Shaffer (Summer 2017)
Hailey Davies (Winter 2017)
Quinn Lowen (Fall 2016)
Rylan Command (Winter 2016)
Lawrence Brennan (Winter 2016)
Lily Campbell (Winter 2016)
Jacob Weil (Fall 2015)
Gillian-Sadlier-Brown (Fall 2014)
Kendra Moore (Winter 2014)
Victoria Reid (Winter 2014)
Kelcy Tousignant (Winter 2014)
Olivia McMillan (Fall 2012)
NSERC USRA Fellows
Ben Fortini (Summer 2020)
Brian Timmer (Summer 2019)
Hailey Davies (Winter 2018)
Lily Campbell (Summer 2016)
Kieran Cox (Winter 2015)
SURA Fellows
Hailey Davies (Summer 2017)
Lab assistants
Esley Greentree (2020-present)
Nick Bohlender (2019-present)
Wendy Fleming (2018-2019)
Micah Quindazzi (2018-2019)
Hailey Shafer (2018-2019)
Lucas Agagnier (2018-2019)
Hailey Davies (Summer 2018-present)
Katie Innes (Summer 2017-present)
Lily Campbell (2016-2017)
Jacob Weil (2015-2016)
Jessica Qualley (2015-2017)
Work Study Students:
Erin Woodley (2019-2020)
Lucas Agagnier (2018-19)
Karle Zelmer (2017-18)
Lili Simon (Fall 2015)
Kristen Powell (Fall 2014)
Victoria Reid (Fall 2013)
Hutton Fellows
Madeline Mittelsteadt (Summer 2019)
MeiLin Precourt (Summer 2018)
Amanda Noel (Summer 2014)
High School Students
May Constabel (Summer 2015)
MITACS summer students
Santiago Gonzalez Bravo (2019), Brazil
Iamania Vergara Perez (2019), Mexico
Jessica Borba (2016), Brazil
Yovela Wang (2015), China
Marcos Vinicius (2014), Brazil
Volunteers:
Lucas Agagnier (Spring 2018)
Rehan Sayeed (Fall 2015)
Rylan Command (2015-2016)
Eva MacLennan (2015-2016)
Sam Tait (Fall 2015)
Lauren Krzus (Fall 2015)
Maria Morrison (Fall 2015)
Gillian-Sadlier-Brown (Fall 2015)
Ashley Neiswender (Summer 2013)
Stephen Trotter (2013-2014)
Chorong Kim (2013 -2014)
Kendra Moore (2013-2014)
Jessie Bell (Fall 2013)
Past Students:
MSc:
Katie (Anderson) Burchard, Study Fleet Program Specialist, NEFSC Cooperative Research Program, katie.burchard at noaa.gov
Paul Clark, Biological Sciences Technician, NEFSC Milford Lab, paul.clark at noaa.gov
Peter Clarke, Fisheries Biologist, NJ Division of Fish & Wildlife, peter.clarke at dep.state.nj.us
Nikolai Klibansky, NRC Postdoc, NOAA-NMFS, Beaufort Lab, nikolai.klibansky at noaa.gov
Gonzalo Mendez, Biological Technician, US Forest Service
John Murt, Owner, North Cornish Catch: teaching sustainability in fisheries, http://www.northcornishcatch.co.uk
Gabe Gries, Fish Biologist, Warmwater Project Leader, NH Fish & Game Department, gabe.gries at wildlife.nh.gov
Brian Hanrahan
Dave Howe, Instructional Technology Specialist, Lecturer in Department of Ecology & Evolution, Rutgers University, howe at aesop.rutgers.edu
Aly McKnight, Seabird Biologist, US Fish & Wildlife Service
Sarah Martinez, Researcher, MA Audubon Society, Cape Cod
Paul Nitschke, Statistician, NOAA-NMFS-NEFSC, Woods Hole Lab, Population Dynamics Branch, paul.nitschke at noaa.gov
Lisa Yako, Freelance writer, Co-owner of Historical Research Partners
PhD:
David Stormer, Postdoc, Florida International University, dstormer at fiu.edu
Megan O'Connor, Postdoc, NOAA-NMFS-NEFSC, Narragansett Lab, megan.oconnor at noaa.gov
Michelle Staudinger, Science Coordinator, DOI Northeast Climate Science Center, https://necsc.umass.edu/people/michelle-staudinger
Rebecca Jordan, Professor, Department of Ecology, Evolution & Natural Resources, Rutgers Univ., http://www.rebeccajordan.org/
John Manderson,Research Fishery Biologist, NOAA-NMFS-NEFSC, Sandy Hook Lab, Behavioral Ecology Branch, john.manderson at noaa.gov
Fred Scharf, Professor, Department of Biology & Marine Biology, Univ. N Carolina Wilmington, http://uncw.edu/bio/faculty_scharf.html
Postdoctoral Fellows:
Brad Blackwell, Research Wildlife Biologist, National Wildlife Research Center, http://www.aphis.usda.gov/wildlife_damage/nwrc/scientists/blackwell.shtml
Jeff Buckel, Professor, Department of Biology, NC State University, http://cmast.ncsu.edu/buckel/
Karen Kellogg, Associate Professor, Environmental Studies, Skidmore College, http://www.skidmore.edu/environmental_studies/faculty/kellogg.php
Mark Tupper, Professor, University of Trinidad and Tobago, Port of Spain, https://u.tt/website_content_staff_profile.php?staff_key=2816
Carrie Wall, Research Scientist, Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences, Univ. Colorado-Boulder, carrie.bell at colorado.edu
Hui-Yu Wang, Assistant Professor, National Taiwan University, Taipei, huiyuwang at ntu.edu.tw
