Sandra Jaskowiak
Growing up in the Greater Toronto Area, Sandra was always fascinated by aquatic life, despite having little exposure to the ocean at a young age. While pursuing her undergraduate honours co-op degree in Marine and Freshwater Biology at the University of Guelph, her curiosity for the marine world deepened. She quickly developed a passion for marine biology, ocean ecology, and conservation.
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Through her work in various labs, including those at the University of Guelph, Environment and Climate Change Canada, and Huntsman Marine Science Centre, Sandra honed her research skills, which fostered her love for the scientific process. During an independent research project studying microplastic ingestion by coral polyps, she was first introduced to marine ecotoxicology, the field she is now dedicated to.
Her current research at SFU focuses on the impacts of climate change and local mercury contamination on ringed seals in Lake Melville, Labrador which are an important country food for local Inuit. Sandra’s work aims to track changes in diet and mercury accumulation in ringed seals over time through analyzing claws and whiskers, while accounting for ecological stressors and climate change. The results of her work will inform policies aimed to protect vulnerable species and habitats at risk, having broader implications for communities and policymakers across Northern Canada.
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In addition to her current research, Sandra is a certified scientific research diver with an interest in marine science communication. Her curiosity and passion continue to drive her commitment to protecting marine life and the communities that depend on it.