UAlberta biologist Stephanie Green has been appointed Canada Reserach Chair in Aquatic Global Change Ecology and Conservation. Photo credit: John Ulan
The health and wellness of marine ecosystems have a ripple effect on communities and economies around the world. And, as pervasive issues such as climate change, overfishing, and habitat loss continue to affect these systems, finding new and creative solutions is of utmost importance.
Leading the charge to discover these solutions is Stephanie Green, faculty member in the University of Alberta’s Department of Biological Sciences and newly-appointed Canada Research Chair in Aquatic Global Change Ecology and Conservation. “Sustaining biodiversity within ocean systems is vital for our societies and economies around the globe—including here in Alberta,” said Green. “Marine species supply protein for billions of people worldwide, produce more than half of the oxygen on our planet, and are key sources of pharmaceutical compounds.”
Green’s lab focuses on three major streams of research: biological invasion, climate change, and oceanic restoration, with a specific interest in the loss of biodiversity in marine ecosystems, and understanding how these losses change marine food webs. The ultimate goal? Developing science-based solutions to conservation problems.
Studying the ocean requires a dynamic, multi-tooled approach. Green’s research program aims to bridge the gap between climate change science and remediation efforts. An interdisciplinary approach to marine science makes Green’s lab both relevant and practical, guided by curiosity as much as it is by pragmatism. She and her research team are working to ensure that ocean systems continue to support future generations.
Want to learn more about the ways University of Alberta research is driving sustainability and conservation? Check out our Sustaining Earth’s Systems hub to learn about the latest news, research, and initiatives on campus working to preserve our environment.