Ian D. Hartley

Ian D. Hartley is a Professor at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC), holding appointments in both the Ecosystem Science and Management Program (Wood Science & Forest Products) and the Department of Physics, where he serves as Chair. His academic career at UNBC spans multiple roles in research, teaching, and administration.

• Educational background includes a Ph.D. in Wood Physics (UBC, 1994)
• M.Sc.F. in Wood Science (UNB, 1988)
• B.Sc. in Physics (UNB, 1986)

Dr. Hartley's research focuses on wood quality (ultra-structure and anatomy) and wood physics, particularly wood-water interactions, diffusion, sorption, lumber drying, and NMR applications. His current projects examine submerged wood properties, Boxwood for bagpipe chanters, and terahertz applications to forest products. His scholarly work demonstrates an interdisciplinary approach bridging physics, materials science, and forestry.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent focus on applying advanced technologies like terahertz spectroscopy and NMR to solve practical problems in wood science. His research spans fundamental wood-water interactions to applied studies on beetle-affected wood and wood-cement composites, showing both theoretical depth and practical relevance to the forest products industry.

• 2019 University Excellence Award for Service
• 2008 Collaborative Research Award
• 2007 UNBC Excellence in Teaching Award
• 2006 Forest Innovator Award

Dr. Hartley has held significant administrative positions including Dean of Graduate Programs (2008-2012), Acting Vice Provost Research and Graduate Programs (2008), and Associate Dean of Graduate Programs (2007-2008). He currently serves as Chair of the NRES Graduate Program Committee and Acting Chair of the Department of Physics. His leadership has focused on graduate program development, funding initiatives, and academic policy.

His laboratory work centers on wood-water interactions and terahertz applications, with collaborations spanning physics, engineering, and forestry disciplines, contributing significantly to non-destructive testing methods for wood characterization.