Kevin Turner

Kevin Turner is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geography and Tourism Studies at Brock University, with a cross-appointment in Earth Sciences. He is based in the Faculty of Social Sciences and conducts interdisciplinary research at the intersection of hydrology, geomorphology, and climate change in northern environments.

Education:

• PhD in Geography, Wilfrid Laurier University
• Geographic Information System Application Specialist, Sir Sandford Fleming College
• BSc in Physical Geography and Biology, Trent University

Dr. Turner's research focuses on hydrological and landscape changes in permafrost regions, particularly in the Old Crow Flats of Yukon. His work integrates isotope hydrology, paleolimnology, dendrochronology, and remote sensing, including the use of unmanned aerial systems. He investigates how climate change affects thermokarst lake dynamics, carbon cycling, and water balance in Arctic and subarctic systems. His long-term field campaigns since 2007 have contributed to a deeper understanding of climate-driven landscape evolution.

The 15 most recent publications highlight a strong trend in cold-region hydrology, remote sensing of permafrost, and paleoenvironmental reconstruction. His work frequently employs stable water isotopes and UAV-based monitoring to assess thaw slump dynamics, lake drainage, and ecosystem responses. The research spans disciplines including environmental science, geophysics, and Arctic ecology.

Scientific Recognition:

• Selected to feature on the cover of a special issue of Remote Sensing (2021)

Dr. Turner has been a principal investigator on multiple field campaigns and is affiliated with the NASA-ABoVE program. He teaches courses in GIS, quantitative methods, and water resource management. He advises graduate students and collaborates widely with researchers across Canada. He is actively involved in academic service, including serving as Chair of the Brock University Northern Studies Committee and as a board member of the Association of Canadian Universities for Northern Studies.

His research supports land management and climate adaptation strategies in vulnerable northern regions. He leads a research program that combines field observations, geospatial analysis, and long-term monitoring to address pressing environmental challenges in the Arctic.