معرفی
Christopher Somers is a Professor in the Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Regina, where he leads research on human-wildlife interactions and conservation in anthropogenically modified environments. His work bridges molecular genetics, field ecology, and wildlife management to address pressing conservation challenges across Saskatchewan and the Great Plains region.
His research spans four interconnected themes: population and conservation genetics, genetic toxicology, wildlife and fisheries management, and conservation biology. He employs multidisciplinary approaches including molecular genetics, stable isotope analysis, and extensive field work to study species responses to environmental stressors. Current projects focus on fish ecology (yellow perch, lake whitefish), invasive species (Prussian carp), and prairie reptiles (bullsnakes, painted turtles).
Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals dominant trends in temperature effects on fish development, catch-and-release fishing impacts, and genetic population structure. His work consistently addresses conservation applications, particularly for cold-adapted fish species facing climate change and anthropogenic pressures in freshwater ecosystems.
Dr. Somers advises graduate students through the Somers Lab (www.somersbiology.ca) and secures research funding for field projects across Saskatchewan. His collaborations with government agencies focus on practical wildlife management solutions, including fisheries regulations and habitat conservation planning.
The Somers Lab maintains active field teams conducting acoustic telemetry studies, genetic analyses, and habitat assessments. Current initiatives include tracking fish movement post-catch-and-release, studying invasive species spread, and evaluating reptile responses to landscape modification across prairie ecosystems.
