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iSPEAC Seminar: Interdisciplinary Genomics Wetland Research: Navigating the Microsystem and Macrosystem

February 20 @ 11:30 am - 12:00 pm

ispeac lori bradford

This presentation examines findings from a large-scale genomics-driven project on constructed wetlands for oil sands process-affected water remediation, integrating both microsystem and macrosystem perspectives.

At the microsystem level, insights from First Nations and Métis communities on genomics and wetlands underscore the ethical inclusion of Traditional Knowledge. Scientific advancements in plant and microbial genomics, bioinformatics, plant survival studies, and fish assays highlight the technical innovations driving progress. At the macrosystem level, the research reveals broader themes, including conflict and ethics in interdisciplinary collaborations, perceptions of deception in knowledge-sharing, and challenges in aligning diverse priorities. A meta-level analysis situates these findings within societal contexts, incorporating artistic research-creation to visualize complex concepts and foster dialogue. This approach underscores the importance of respecting local practices and monitoring systemic reflections to advance ecological, cultural, and technological solutions. The presentation will also discuss trends in Canadian interdisciplinary research through Genome Canada and New Frontiers experiences.

Dr. Graham Strickert and Dr. Lori Bradford will be hosted by Dr. Irena Creed for this iSPEAC Seminar.

This is a hybrid event and will occur both in-person and online.

  • In person: Room 140, Environmental Science and Chemistry Building,
    University of Toronto Scarborough, 1065 Military Trail, Scarborough, ON, Canada, M1C 1A4
    Note: Seating is limited to 35 guests.

 

About the Speaker

Dr. Lori Bradford is an Associate Professor and Canada Research Chair in Social and Cultural Decision-Making in Engineering Design at the University of Saskatchewan. Her interdisciplinary research bridges social sciences, engineering, and environmental sciences to foster inclusion of local knowledge and advance equity, diversity, and sustainability in areas such as water security, infrastructure design, bioplastics, and climate adaptation. Dr. Bradford specializes in participatory methods and community engagement, working closely with Indigenous and equity-deserving groups to inform policies and co-design solutions that integrate diverse perspectives. A respected critical scholar and research leader, her work has been published in national and international venues. She serves as Editor of The Engaged Scholar Journal and collaborates with Tri-Council agencies on program evaluation using social network analysis for large-scale interdisciplinary funding initiatives. Through her innovative approach, Dr. Bradford champions inclusive and sustainable strategies for tackling complex societal challenges.

About iSPEAC

iSPEAC (invited Speakers in Physics, Environmental science, And Chemistry) is the Department of Physical and Environmental Science’s invited speaker series, which covers topics and is delivered by external experts and academics in physics, environmental science, and chemistry. Speakers from near and far are invited to share their cutting-edge research with an interdisciplinary audience of students, faculty and staff. The series is co-sponsored by the Department of Physical and Environmental Science, and the Office of the Vice-Principal Research at UTSC.

Details

Date:
February 20
Time:
11:30 am - 12:00 pm

Venue

Online and in-person