The only Canadian university to have two research chair positions dedicated solely to wildfire science, TRU also has one of the largest teams of wildfire experts at any university in Canada.
Dr. Mike Flannigan
Scientific director of the Institute for Wildfire Science, Adaptation, and ResiliencyBC Innovation Research Chair in Predictive Services, Emergency Management and Fire Science, Thompson Rivers University
Dr. Flannigan uses machine learning approaches to better model and predict wildfire activity to inform the development of a wildfire early warning system and improve fire management planning and operations.
Dr. Jill Harvey
Canada Research Chair in Fire Ecology
Dr. Harvey investigates wildfire and drought as processes driving ecosystem change to help inform forest and fire management practices and enhance resilience in Canada’s forests.
Dr. Lauchlan Fraser
NSERC Industrial Research Chair in Ecosystem Reclamation
Dr. Fraser is at the forefront of research that aids in the recovery of disturbed ecosystems. He has led reclamation research relating to soil amendments, biodiversity and climate change, with a particular focus on the Southern Interior of BC.
Dr. Brian Heise
Associate Professor, Natural Resource Science (Faculty of Science)
Dr. Heise studies the effects of land use practices and invasive species on freshwater invertebrates and fish. He is knowledgeable about the effects of wildfire on aquatic ecosystems, especially rivers and streams.
Dr. Thomas Pypker
Professor, Natural Resource Science (Faculty of Science)
Dr. Pypker studies the after-effects of wildfires, particularly as they impact land disturbance and water flows.
Dr. Bala Nikku
Associate Professor, Social Work and Human Service (Faculty of Education and Social Work)
Dr. Nikku studies human interactions with wildfires and other climate disasters in Canada and Asia. His work mainly focuses on understanding peoples’ evacuation choices before, during, and post-disaster stages and how those choices intersect with disaster management policies and practices. Using these research insights, Dr. Nikku advocates for building resilient futures.
