Association of Polar Early Career Scientists

 

Lisa LesotoDr. Loseto has been a solid presence in arctic science for several years, and when not in the field, is often found in households and harvesting camps across the north. Her attention to the well-being of northern residents, coupled with her commitment to ensure that Indigenous peoples are involved in the science and study of traditional foods, make her a visible and honoured member of the arctic science community.

One of the central components in Dr. Loseto's impeccable reputation is her drive to serve as a mentor to early career scientists. A work colleague to Dr. Loseto, Dr. Robert Young, says this about her mentorship:

"Since 2008, Lisa has mentored and contributed to the training of over more than 20 northern students through her beluga health research program. These students have had the opportunity to work with her in the field, to travel to Winnipeg to work for periods in the lab as well as to scientific conferences where they were exposed to a range of Arctic research. Many of her students were given the opportunity and guidance necessary to present posters or make presentations on their research projects. Her mentoring efforts have had a profound impact on these students. It has inspired them to gain a new insight into the value of their environment, research and its importance to northern communities. Her leadership has also instilled a sense of self confidence in these students that has contributed to successful careers in range of professions, including polar research, for most of her students. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans has benefited because Lisa's approach to research and training has created a highly successful community-based monitoring program and a leader in incorporating traditional ecological knowledge into research and management decision making.

Dr. Loseto has also mentored and trained 18 students at a number of academic institutions. The range in students has been broad and includes supervision and mentoring of high school, postsecondary, graduate (MSc and PhD) students as well as post-doctoral fellows. The mentoring opportunities for these students have been quite varied ranging from field work and conferences to developing highly innovative laboratory techniques and statistical modeling approaches."

One of the greatest and most unique aspects of Dr. Loseto's mentoring approach is found in her commitment to ensure that students are able to connect their work with Indigenous communities and to involve these communities in many phases of the science process. This necessary approach highlights cooperation and strong community-based involvement, which is an essential component in how science is conducted across the Arctic.

Dr. Loseto, congratulations on being recognized as a leader in arctic science mentorship. Your work is commendable, and your commitment to engendering both students and community members is exemplary!

Contact APECS

APECS International Directorate
UiT The Arctic University of Norway
Huginbakken 14
9019 Tromsø
Norway
Email: info(at)apecs.is

Our Sponsors

APECS Directorate Sponsor
 
UiTNPIFRAM
 
Further Sponsors and Partners for APECS projects, activities and events