Wildlife Contaminants Research Training Workshop for Nunavut Arctic College's Environmental Technology Program
Since 2007, the Nunavut Research Institute (NRI) has collaborated with University research teams to deliver a unique Wildlife Contaminants Research Training Program for students in the Environmental Technology Program. This week-long workshop (usually delivered in the fall semester) combines lectures, interactive lab and field activities, and group discussions, and engages researchers, hunters, and decision makers.
Students learn a variety of practical techniques to measure, assess, manage and communicate about contaminants in country foods. Students learn specific methods for wildlife tissue sampling (with a focus on marine birds, caribou and seal), and they learn how to develop and evaluate contaminants, as well as communication strategies for target audiences in Nunavut. Under the guidance of local hunters and elders, students are also introduced to traditional butchering and skin preparation techniques of marine birds, caribou, and seals, and they gain insights into Inuit perspectives on wildlife health.
The training provides a foundation for Nunavut’s future environmental managers and decision makers to engage in contaminants research, and to effectively interpret, evaluate, and convey contaminants information to community members.
Simply Science Summer Camp
Each year, the NRI partners with the Actua group to deliver two week science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) summer camps to school children (9 to 13 years of age) in various Nunavut communities. In a day school setting, participants take part in a wide range of hands-on educational activities related to the Arctic environment, wildlife, and Inuit culture. For more information about the summer STEM programs planned for 2025 please contact the NRI’s Manager of Scientific Support Services, Sean Qappik, sean.qappik@arcticcollege.ca
Actua is a leading Canadian science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) youth outreach organization. Each year, the Actua network engages over 500,000 youth in 600 communities across Canada in transformative STEM learning experiences that build critical skills and confidence. Please visit www.actua.ca.
Public Research Sharing Spaces
Researchers working in Nunavut are encouraged to share and discuss their research directly with community residents. However, finding appropriate venues for research sharing and community engagement events can be very challenging. The NRI's Iqaluit research centre conference room is always available to researchers who wish to deliver public presentations or who need a space to hold research consultations or training workshops with community groups. To book space for your outreach events please contact NRI’s Manager of Scientific Support Services, Sean Qappik, sean.qappik@arcticcollege.ca.