Melissa Lafreniere

Dr. Melissa Lafreniere is a Professor and Head of the Department of Geography and Planning at Queen's University. She specializes in Arctic hydrology and biogeochemistry, focusing on climate change impacts on permafrost watersheds and alpine environments. Her research combines field observations, laboratory analyses, and community collaboration, particularly with Inuit communities in Nunavut.

Education:

• Ph.D. (2003): Glacial hydrology and hydrochemistry, University of Alberta
• H.B.Sc. (1996): Geography, University of Western Ontario

Research Interests:

• Climate change effects on Arctic hydrology and biogeochemical cycles
• Permafrost thaw dynamics and their environmental consequences
• Watershed responses to anthropogenic activities and warming

Her work emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating traditional knowledge with scientific data to enhance sustainability and water security in Arctic regions.

Lab & Projects:

• Co-director of the Cape Bounty Arctic Watershed Observatory (CBAWO), a long-term Arctic research facility.
• Leads collaborative initiatives like the ArcticNet-funded Water-IQ project, addressing water resource sustainability in Iqaluit.
• Utilizes advanced technologies (e.g., LiDAR, drone surveys) to study terrain and biogeochemical processes.

Recent Projects:

• Investigating mercury trends in Arctic Char and permafrost C dynamics.
• Evaluating impacts of rain-on-ice events and climate-driven hydrological changes.
• Training Arctic communities in water science through field workshops and partnerships.