I am a translational ecologist working on engagement, open knowledge systems and communities of practice. I believe that connecting people with nature through conservation and ecological restoration plays a crucial role in tackling the climate and biodiversity crises. I am passionate about community-engaged research, ecological art and knowledge sharing. I take a collaborative approach to academic research and teaching with an emphasis on the practical application of findings.

I use quantitative and qualitative research tools like geospatial analysis, surveys, interviews and field research to answer three critical questions: How can we best support greater engagement with nature? How can we increase access to open ecological knowledge and data? How can scientists, practitioners and community members collaborate better?

I live and work in Kitchener, Ontario — land located on the Haldimand Tract which was promised to the Six Nations of the Grand River, and stewarded by the Anishinaabe and Neutral peoples since time immemorial. I was born in Northern Ontario to a family descended from underground miners and have made it my life’s work to help heal the damage done to Earth through restoration and conservation.