Raincoast Research Chair in Applied Conservation Science

UVic conservation scientist and geography associate professor, Chris Darimont, uses applied research to confront problems and opportunities in sustainability in the Great Bear Rainforest on BC’s central coast. On May 30, Darimont was named the Raincoast Research Chair in Applied Conservation Science at the University of Victoria.

The five-year chair role supports Darimont and his Applied Conservation Science Lab to grow their research, teaching and outreach programs in community-driven applied conservation science. The research lab, largely focused on wildlife and fish systems, is dedicated to generating evidence that complements existing forms of Indigenous knowldege. The interdisciplinary work is shaped by the values of Indigenous nations (Heiltsuk, Kitasoo/Xais'xais, Nuxalk, Wuikinuxv, and Gitga'at) from the west coast who work in close partnership with Darimont and the lab. Outreach activities include youth training and internships, participation at science and culture camps, as well as engagement in environmental assessment processes.

Included in the funding is the support for Indigenous students to attend a land-based field school co-taught by Darimont and Jessie Housty of the Heiltsuk Nation’s Qqs Projects Society. The course, affectionately known as the “University of Koeye,” exposes learners to science, Indigenous Knowledge and resource management.

Funding for the Raincoast Chair in Applied Conservation Science at UVic is generously provided by an anonymous donor and the Raincoast Conservation Foundation.

For more information about the Raincoast Chair in Applied Conservation Science contact Chris Darimont darimont@uvic.ca, associate professor in the Department of Geography.