Find Academic Supervisors

Margaret Kalacska is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geography at McGill University, leading the Applied Remote Sensing Lab. Her research focuses on advancing remote sensing technologies like hyperspectral imaging, Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), LiDAR, and thermal imaging for environmental science and natural hazard monitoring. She has pioneered the use of RPAS-HSI systems, including developing Canada’s first fully operational RPAS-HSI for the Canadian Airborne Biodiversity Observatory (CABO) since 2018. Dr. Kalacska holds a PhD and MSc in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences from the University of Alberta. Her interdisciplinary work spans Canada, Brazil, Tanzania, Ghana, the Peruvian Amazon, Panama, Madagascar, and Costa Rica. Notable achievements include being the first Canadian woman to lead an airborne hyperspectral mission (MAC-13) in Costa Rica (2013) and receiving the Silver Medal from the Canadian Remote Sensing Society (2018). Her lab specializes in integrating cutting-edge remote sensing tools for biodiversity conservation, ecosystem monitoring, and disaster response. Recent projects include the Fish + Forest initiative studying aquatic habitats in Brazil and advancing custom RPAS for hyperspectral imaging. She also collaborates with the National Research Council of Canada and international organizations like NATO. Awards: Fessenden Prize (2014), Silver Medal (2018), Steacie Prize Nomination (2020) Key Projects: CABO, Fish + Forest , RPAS-HSI System Development Technologies: UAV LiDAR, Structure-from-Motion Photogrammetry, Satellite Data Validation Her research bridges environmental science and technology, emphasizing global applications in conservation and climate resilience.

• Remote Sensing
• Environmental Science
• Hyperspectral Imaging
• +7 more

Dr. Jared G. Carlberg is a Professor in the Department of Agribusiness and Agricultural Economics at the University of Manitoba , with an adjunct appointment in the Department of Economics. He focuses on applied agricultural economics research and teaching in food systems analysis. PhD in Agricultural Economics, Oklahoma State University MSc in Agricultural Economics, University of Saskatchewan BA (Honors) in Economics, University of Saskatchewan B Commerce in Finance, University of Saskatchewan His research spans agricultural marketing (cattle/beef sectors, grain/pulses/oilseeds), nutrition economics (healthcare costs of food-related chronic diseases), and sustainable agrifood systems (conservation easements, pea coproducts, durum wheat supply response). Key projects examine beef quality grade pricing, grain supply dynamics, and health-economic policy linkages. Dr. Carlberg’s 15 most recent publications demonstrate interdisciplinary expertise bridging agricultural markets, food policy, and health economics. Recurring themes include value chain optimization, sustainable practices, policy frameworks, and quantitative analysis of food-health linkages. Professor of the Year Award, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences Student Organization Outstanding Teacher in Agricultural and Food Sciences (twice awarded) He has advised 13 graduate students since 2001, covering topics from flax/corn/oat supply responses to growth-enhancing technologies in cattle feeding. His teaching portfolio includes econometrics (ABIZ 3080) and agricultural marketing research (ABIZ 7240).

• Agricultural Economics
• Agricultural Marketing
• Beef Sector Economics
• +7 more

John Galaty is a Professor in the Department of Anthropology at McGill University, affiliated with the Faculty of Arts. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Chicago (1977). His research focuses on pastoralism, legal anthropology, land tenure systems, and conflict dynamics in East Africa, with particular attention to Maasai communities. Recent work addresses pastoral livelihood adaptations, land dispossession, and the impacts of globalization on rangeland societies. Key research areas include: Pastoralist mobility and sedentarization Legal pluralism and land rights Conflict mediation and state intervention Cultural semiotics and ritual practices Publications highlight transformative pressures on pastoral systems, including land grabbing, conservation policies, and climate vulnerability. His work bridges academic analysis with policy critique, emphasizing Indigenous perspectives in development contexts. No scientific awards explicitly mentioned. Advising and grants sections remain under-documented in available texts.

• Pastoralism
• Rangeland Development
• Legal Anthropology
• +5 more

Dr. Maja Krzic is a Professor at the Department of Forest and Conservation Sciences within UBC's Faculty of Land and Food Systems. Her research bridges soil science with sustainability education through community engagement and digital innovation, focusing on human impacts on soil properties across agricultural, grassland, and forest ecosystems. She develops cutting-edge teaching tools like the Digging into Canadian Soils open textbook and SOILx interactive platform. PhD (University of British Columbia, 1997) MSc (University of Belgrade, 1990) BSc (University of Belgrade, 1986) Her publications (2010-2025) explore greenhouse gas dynamics in agricultural systems, soil carbon sequestration in elevation gradients, and innovative educational approaches including problem-based learning and augmented reality. Recent work addresses climate-resilient soil management in coastal British Columbia and gender parity in soil science academia. Major awards include: 3M National Teaching Fellow (2016) UBC Killam Teaching Prize (2006) Fellow, Soil Science Society of America (2023) Platinum AVA Digital Award for SOILx (2015) She has mentored 28 graduate students and postdocs, including Amy Wells (2024), Clara Roa-Garcia (PhD, 2018), and Preston Cumming (Postdoc, 2015). Current projects focus on climate change adaptation in Delta farmland and regenerative agricultural practices.

• Soil Science
• Conservation Biology
• Sustainable Agriculture
• +3 more

Eric Lamb is a Professor in the Department of Plant Sciences at the University of Saskatchewan, affiliated with the College of Agriculture and Bioresources. He is also the Curator of the WP Fraser Herbarium. His research focuses on plant ecology, fire ecology, and grassland conservation. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Alberta, an M.Sc. from Lakehead University, and a B.Sc. from the University of British Columbia. Dr. Lamb teaches undergraduate courses including Plant Ecology, Grassland Soils and Vegetation, and Advanced Plant Ecology, as well as graduate courses in statistical and experimental analysis methods. His research explores ecosystem services, invasive species impacts, soil microbiology, and fire management strategies in grassland ecosystems. Key Research Themes: Fire effects on plant communities, microbial interactions in root systems, and conservation strategies for grassland biodiversity. Notable Contributions: Pioneering studies on prescribed fire reintroduction, microbial community dynamics during invasions, and the ecological impacts of grazing regimes. His recent publications emphasize global grassland drought vulnerabilities, Arctic soil biodiversity under climate change, and the role of microbial networks in ecosystem resilience. Dr. Lamb collaborates widely on interdisciplinary projects bridging ecology, conservation, and land management. Lab/Team Activities: Active in the WP Fraser Herbarium’s specimen curation and fieldwork initiatives, focusing on Saskatchewan’s endemic plant species and Arctic tundra restoration.

• Plant Ecology
• Fire Ecology
• Grasslands Conservation
• +3 more

M. Anne Naeth is a Professor in the Department of Renewable Resources at the University of Alberta, specializing in land reclamation and restoration ecology. She holds dual professional designations as a Professional Agrologist (PAg) and Professional Biologist (P Biol), and is a Fellow of the Society for Teaching and Learning in Higher Education (FSTLHE) and the Canadian Society of Soil Science (FCSSS). Her roles include Director of Future Energy Systems (a Canada First Research Excellence Fund program) and Director of the Land Reclamation International Graduate School (LRIGS). Her research focuses on plant-soil-water relationships, with emphasis on reclamation post-disturbance from industrial activities. She leads interdisciplinary initiatives addressing soil reconstruction, phytoremediation, and sustainable land management. Notable contributions include advancing anthroposol classification and developing strategies for contaminated site remediation using native species and waste-derived amendments. Education: PhD (details not specified in texts) Affiliations: Editor-in-Chief of the Canadian Journal of Soil Science, Co-Lead of Future Energy Systems' Resilient Reclaimed Land and Water Systems theme Dr. Naeth has received over 20 awards, including the University Cup (2018) and 3M National Teaching Fellowship (1997). Her teaching excellence is underscored by multiple Teacher of the Year awards and the Vargo Distinguished Teaching Chair (2005–2017). Research & Grants: NSERC CREATE grant for LRIGS, training leaders in land reclamation Leadership in Future Energy Systems, focusing on sustainable energy transitions Projects on biochar applications, phytoremediation, and Arctic ecosystem restoration Labs/Teams: Directs the Land Reclamation International Graduate School and the Landform Design Institute. Collaborates via the Terrestrial Mesocosm Facility and the Future Energy Systems consortium.

• Land Reclamation
• Restoration Ecology
• Soil Science
• +6 more

Amalesh Dhar, PhD, is a Research Associate at the University of Alberta's Department of Renewable Resources within the Faculty of Agricultural, Life and Environmental Sciences. His research focuses on land reclamation, restoration ecology, and environmental impact assessment, with over 14 years of experience in natural resources management across institutions including the University of British Columbia and the Bulkley Valley Research Centre. Dr. Dhar holds a PhD from the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences in Vienna, Austria. His work emphasizes innovative reclamation strategies for post-industrial and disturbed landscapes, including oil sands remediation, forest ecosystem recovery, and Arctic tundra restoration. Key research interests include phytoremediation techniques for contaminated soils, vegetation establishment in harsh environments, and long-term ecosystem recovery dynamics. His recent publications explore topics such as sage-grouse habitat restoration, native seed mix impacts, and the use of biochar in metal remediation. Collaborations with industry and government agencies have led to practical solutions for reclamation challenges in Alberta and beyond. His research integrates ecological principles with engineering practices to address climate change and industrial land use impacts. Notable projects include reclamation of phosphogypsum stacks, evaluation of coarse woody debris effects in boreal forests, and assessment of pipeline construction impacts on native rangelands.

• Land Reclamation
• Restoration Ecology
• Environmental Impact Assessment
• +4 more

Aklilu Alemu is an Adjunct Professor at the Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Manitoba since 2021, and works at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's Swift Current Research and Development Center. His research focuses on improving animal production efficiency while minimizing environmental impacts, particularly in beef cattle systems and forage management. Education: Ph.D. in Animal Production System Analysis, University of Manitoba (2013) MSc in Ruminant Nutrition, University of Alberta (2008) BSc in Animal Production and Rangeland Management, Hawassa University (2003) Diploma in General Agriculture, Awassa College of Agriculture (1997) Research Interests: Development of nutritional strategies to enhance beef cattle productivity, forage crop management, greenhouse gas mitigation in ruminants, and life cycle analysis of beef systems. He also applies systems modeling to optimize livestock production sustainability. Awards: 2024 AAFC Gold Harvest Award 2024 AAFC Instant Award BCRC Beef Researcher Mentorship (2019–2020) International Livestock Congress Travel Fellowships Grants & Funding: Supported by AAFC, Beef Cattle Research Council, Saskatchewan Agricultural Development Fund, and Southwest Saskatchewan Forage Cooperation Association Ltd. His work bridges academic research with industry needs, emphasizing collaborative solutions for sustainable livestock systems.

• Ruminant Nutrition
• Beef Cattle Production
• Forage Production
• +4 more

Richard E. Farrell is a Professor and Ministry of Agriculture Strategic Research Program Chair in Soil Biological Processes at the University of Saskatchewan's Department of Soil Science. He leads the Prairie Environmental Agronomy Research Laboratory (PEARL), focusing on mitigating agricultural greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing soil sustainability. His research integrates advanced nitrogen management strategies with environmental impact assessments. Education: PhD (1985), MS (1979) in Agronomy (Soil Chemistry) from Iowa State University; BS (1975) in Natural Resources Science from the University of Rhode Island. Research interests include soil-derived greenhouse gas quantification, nutrient cycling in cropping systems, and sustainable soil management. Key projects involve optimizing fertilizer use, precision manure application, and crop residue utilization to reduce N2O emissions and enhance carbon sequestration. Notable awards include the 2022 Canadian Society of Soil Science Fellowship and 2019 Journal of Environmental Quality Reviewer Excellence. Current funding partners include the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture, Canadian Agriculture Partnership, and Western Grains Research Foundation. Teaches courses like SLSC 826 (Soil Characterization) and SLSC 990 (Soil Science Seminar). Active in developing open-access soil science educational resources.

• Environmental Agronomy
• Soil Chemistry
• Greenhouse Gas Mitigation
• +3 more

Changxi Li is the AAFC Professor and AAFC Chair in Bovine Genomics at the University of Alberta's Faculty of Agricultural, Life and Environmental Sciences , Department of Agricultural, Food & Nutritional Science. His work focuses on leveraging genomic tools to enhance beef cattle productivity through quantitative genetics and functional genomics research. He teaches AN SC 485 - Animal Genetics and Breeding in Winter Term 2026, emphasizing practical applications of genetic principles in livestock improvement. Dr. Li holds a PhD from the University of Alberta . His research integrates molecular biology, computational genomics, and industry collaboration to address challenges in beef cattle breeding, including feed efficiency optimization, meat quality traits, and the genetic mechanisms underlying economically important traits. Recent studies emphasize the role of host genetics in rumen microbiota composition and heritable microbial features linked to feed efficiency, as well as the development of genomic prediction models for multi-breed populations. His publications reveal a strong focus on feed efficiency and genomic selection , with recurring themes of identifying quantitative trait loci (QTL) for growth, fat deposition, and carcass traits. He also investigates the impacts of prenatal nutrition and maternal genetics on offspring development, while exploring strategies to reduce the carbon footprint of beef production through genomic tools. Collaborators include Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) and industry partners, ensuring practical applications of his findings. While no formal awards are listed, his leadership in the Kinsella Breeding Project and contributions to genomic pipeline development (e.g., eQTL-Detect) highlight his influential role in advancing beef cattle genomics. His advising and grants section reflects sustained funding from AAFC and collaborative projects in genomic profiling of maternal traits and heterosis effects, with initiatives targeting improved livestock management.

• Bovine Genomics
• Quantitative Genetics
• Functional Genomics
• +7 more

Gleise Medeiros da Silva is an Assistant Professor and BCRC - Hays Chair in Beef Production Systems at the University of Alberta's Department of Agricultural, Food & Nutritional Science. She holds a PhD from the University of Florida (2021), MSc (2017), and BSc (2015) from Brazil's Federal Rural University of Pernambuco. Education: PhD: Animal Science, University of Florida, USA (2021) MSc: Animal Science, University of Florida, USA (2017) BSc: Animal Science, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Brazil (2015) Research Interests: Focuses on sustainable beef production strategies, including stress mitigation, beef cattle nutrition, and fetal-programming in female livestock. Specializes in environmental stress adaptation, feed additive efficacy, and cow-calf sector profitability. Teaching: Teaches AFNS 574 - Applied Beef Cattle Science and AFNS 601 - Seminar , emphasizing practical applications of modern beef industry practices. Engages students via field trips, lab work, and collaborative research. Labs/Teams: Leads research initiatives through the BCRC Hays Chair position, collaborating with industry partners to advance sustainable beef production systems. Her work bridges academic research with real-world agricultural challenges.

• Beef Cattle Nutrition
• Animal Science
• Livestock Management
• +4 more

Janice Cooke is a Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Alberta, Faculty of Science. Her research focuses on molecular mechanisms underlying forest tree responses to biotic and abiotic stressors, including pest/pathogen interactions and seasonal physiological processes. She leads the Cooke Lab, which collaborates on large-scale genomics projects and investigates conifer defense mechanisms, dormancy regulation, and ecological genetics. Education: BSc (Honours, Co-op) from University of Victoria; PhD from University of Alberta; postdoctoral research at University of Florida and Université Laval. Professional roles include Editor-in-Chief of Tree Physiology and Deputy Coordinator for IUFRO Division 2. Research interests include molecular responses to environmental cues, quantitative resistance in pines, and white spruce bud dormancy. Notable projects address mountain pine beetle-fungal symbiont interactions, spruce budworm herbivory, and nitrogen dynamics in conifers. Awards: CD Nelson Award (2021), McCalla Professorship (2020), Killam Annual Professorship (2019). Teaches courses like BOT 205 (Plant Biology), BOT 445/545 (Molecular Plant Physiology), and BOT 600 (Plant Biology Seminar). Labs/Teams: Cooke Lab (focus on tree genomics and stress responses). Current projects explore genetic and environmental factors influencing tree defense mechanisms and phenological adaptation.

• Forest Genomics
• Molecular Biology
• Plant Physiology
• +3 more

Eric Micheels is an Associate Professor in the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics at the University of Saskatchewan, part of the College of Agriculture and Bioresources. His expertise spans agribusiness management, farm financial management, and agricultural marketing. He holds a Ph.D. and M.S. from the University of Illinois and a B.S. from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. Research Interests: Farm financial management strategies and risk mitigation Agribusiness marketing dynamics and consumer behavior Innovations in value chain management and entrepreneurial practices Impact of social capital and absorptive capacity on agricultural adoption Recent Work Trends: His publications emphasize empirical analyses of agricultural innovation adoption, risk perception in farming communities, and the economic implications of policy changes. Notable themes include the role of market orientation in driving farm performance and the application of behavioral economics in agricultural decision-making. Teaching: Teaches courses such as AREC 428 (Case Studies in Agribusiness Management), AREC 347 (Agribusiness Marketing Management), and AREC 825 (Current Issues in Agribusiness Research). Focuses on bridging theoretical concepts with practical industry challenges. Professional Engagement: Active in academic organizations like the Western Education and Research Activities (WERA) and the International Food and Agribusiness Management Association (IFAMA). Regularly contributes to policy discussions on agricultural sustainability and international trade impacts.

• Agribusiness Management
• Agricultural Economics
• Farm Financial Management
• +4 more

David Hill is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at Thompson Rivers University (TRU). His research focuses on smart infrastructure, environmental sensing, and adaptive management strategies using integrated sensor technologies. He holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering from the University of Illinois and has held academic positions at Rutgers University and TRU. His work emphasizes leveraging ubiquitous sensing systems (e.g., drones, satellite data, and consumer devices) to monitor ecosystems, optimize resource use, and address climate challenges. Education : Ph.D., Environmental Engineering and Science, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2007 M.Sc., Environmental Engineering and Science, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2002 B.Sc., Civil and Environmental Engineering, Cornell University, 1999 Research Interests : Hill’s work bridges environmental engineering and data science, with a focus on: Ubiquitous sensing and sensor integration RPAS (drone) remote sensing for ecological monitoring Adaptive management frameworks for forestry, ranching, and water systems Sustainable grazing strategies and invasive species control Grants & Funding : Supported by NSERC Discovery Grants, Canadian Foundation for Innovation (CFI), and British Columbia Knowledge Development Fund (BCKDF). His GeoX Lab collaborates with industry and NGOs to develop practical solutions for environmental challenges. Labs & Teams : Directs the GeoX Lab, which integrates sensor technology, data analysis, and adaptive management to support ecological and economic sustainability in forestry and rangeland ecosystems.

• Environmental Engineering
• Remote Sensing
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
• +3 more

Sylvie Quideau is a Professor in the Renewable Resources Department at the University of Alberta's Faculty of Agricultural, Life and Environmental Sciences. She specializes in soil biogeochemistry, focusing on organic matter dynamics, microbial ecology, and ecosystem restoration in boreal forests and disturbed landscapes. Her work addresses how environmental factors and anthropogenic activities influence soil functioning, carbon sequestration, and microbial communities. Education and professional background: While specific academic qualifications are not detailed here, her position and research focus imply advanced training in soil science, environmental biology, or related fields. She has been actively teaching and publishing since at least 1996, with recent terms in 2025. Research interests include: soil organic matter transformations, climate change impacts on boreal soils, post-mining reclamation, microbial responses to disturbance, and soil health under agricultural systems. She leads the Soil Team, investigating novel methods for assessing soil function and microbial activity, including applications of NMR spectroscopy and stable isotopes. Teaching responsibilities include advanced courses such as Soil Biogeochemistry , Advanced Soil Formation , and Graduate Research Skills . Courses emphasize fieldwork and lab-based techniques, reflecting her commitment to hands-on pedagogy in soil science education. Publications span over three decades, with recent work on invasive earthworm effects, fire/harvest impacts on soil carbon, and grazing management in boreal and prairie ecosystems. Her research bridges basic science and applied restoration challenges, particularly in oil sands reclamation and ecological disturbance recovery.

• Soil Biogeochemistry
• Soil Organic Matter Dynamics
• Environmental Soil Science
• +7 more