Jennifer Humphries Aurora Research Institute

What was your education journey like? 

My educational background includes a bachelor’s in Environmental Science from the University of Guelph, and a master’s in Physical Geography from Carleton University, where I focused on understanding how the condition of snow impacts ground temperatures along the Dempster Highway in northern Yukon. The best parts of my time at Carleton involved either exposure to valuable experiences, such as helping with types of fieldwork, or meeting great people.  

What do you do now? 

I now work as the Permafrost Specialist at the Aurora Research Institute in Inuvik, Northwest Territories, where I help to conduct permafrost monitoring and research projects in the Beaufort Delta Region. My research interests revolve around the relations between permafrost and the physical geography of the western Arctic. Of particular interest is understanding how transportation infrastructure and climate change are impacting permafrost, and developing strategies to promote resilience. Making science more approachable, inclusive, and thoughtful is central to how I approach the research process.

What advice would you give students wanting careers in permafrost related fields?

The most useful advice I could give to undergraduate students is to learn to enjoy your work – look for opportunities, but also for friends, and try to only do things you are interested in, or care about. There is an ever-increasing pressure to get swept up in a culture of busyness (especially in academia) which can be exhausting and a lot of pressure. Restricting yourself to the activities that are important to you is a good way to resist that tendency and stay happy.

What are some of your career highlights?

Throughout my degrees I worked in various lab and field positions. After finishing a graduate degree I moved to Whitehorse, to work as a research assistant and independent contractor. I began my current position as the Permafrost Specialist for the Aurora Research Institute in October 2021, and it is probably the closest I could be to an ideal position.  Access to mentorship is one of the most important determinants of career success. I would not be where I am today if not for the people who offered support and advice throughout my schooling and early career.