What brought you to UPEI? Why did you choose to teach here?

When I applied for the faculty position at UPEI, I found it very attractive to teach at relatively small university, with the possibility to work closely with students. I could also pursue my research interests and explore possible collaborations with colleagues at UPEI.

What courses are you teaching?

I am teaching different courses in UPEI's Environmental Studies program; this term, I am teaching a course about research methods and a course about environmental communication. Much of what and how I teach is dictated by the challenges and opportunities associated with the field of environmental studies. Teaching environmental studies courses is exciting because we are able to learn about a variety of complex issues, bring insights from different disciplines, and discuss the latest developments in politics and society that are often directly connected to our course content. I feel that environmental studies courses are therefore always alive, full of energy and discovery.

On the other hand, teaching environmental studies courses poses challenges, as the topics that we teach are often depressing. Not only are environmental problems grave in their own right, but also they are often connected to such topics as racism, inequality, poverty, and violence. It is, therefore, important to teach about the challenges of environmental problems, including their grave causes and consequences.

What kinds of research are you involved in, and what is your area of expertise?

I am interested in understanding how to transition away from fossil fuels without leaving anybody behind. Such profound changes may affect some communities and individuals more than others, and it is important to pay attention to these topics when we design policy solutions, for example. I am also interested in understanding how local communities oppose energy infrastructure projects, and specifically, hydropower plants.

"Teaching environmental studies courses is exciting because we are able to learn about a variety of complex issues, bring insights from different disciplines, and discuss the latest developments in politics and society that are often directly connected to our course content. I feel that environmental studies courses are therefore always alive, full of energy and discovery."

What do you find unique and interesting about UPEI’s Environmental Studies programs?

UPEI’s Environmental Studies program allows students to learn about environmental issues from various perspectives. They are also able to get practical experience through our internship course and the co-operative education program. Students in our program are very engaged and deeply care about environmental issues, and it is a pleasure working with them.

Our graduates can work in various sectors. In future decades, we will have to solve very complex environmental issues, starting with global climate change and ending with local pollution problems, and I believe that our graduates have much potential to contribute to this important work.