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From the Archives: Dr. Derek Ellis and Arctic research

October 15, 2026

Derek Ellis underwater wearing SCUBA gear
Professor Derek Ellis in 1959 was the first Canadian biologist scuba diver. He undertook underwater behavioural studies for the Fisheries Research Board of Canada at dams, in fishways and in rivers. (Derek Ellis fonds (AR046)

University Archives preserves and provides access to records that document the history of UVic, the achievements of its people and the stories behind their work. Here we highlight the work of Dr. Derek Ellis, who was in UVic's Biology department from 1964 to 1996.

Dr. Ellis’ research included salmon biology, underwater photography (he was an early adopter of SCUBA), and benthic environmental assessment. His archives includes the “Arctic Research series (1947-1957)", accrued during four expeditions to the Arctic (1953-1957).

Materials include correspondence, field notes, manuscripts and publications, slides, photographs, maps, and some motion picture reels. 

These records offer a glimpse into scientific fieldwork in the Canadian Arctic and help preserve an important chapter in UVic's research history.

Explore:

Special Collections and University Archives is open Monday to Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Learn more about accessing collections through Special Collections and University Archives.