Inspired Research.
Real Impact.

Laurier Research in Northern Canada

Researchers at Wilfrid Laurier University embrace complex challenges. Together with northern governments, Indigenous communities and international peers, Laurier faculty and students are solving urgent problems and enhancing well-being in the North.

Planting Seeds of Sovereignty

In response to wildfires and inaccessible food prices, the Northwest Territories' "tiniest town" is working with Laurier researchers to incubate a community garden.

See how this fruitful partnership came to life

Northern Canada is one of the fastest-warming regions on Earth. Climate change is affecting northern ecosystems at an accelerated pace, from more intense wildfires to declining water quality, thawing ice and changes to wildlife habitats. These changes have immense impacts on all people in the North, especially Indigenous communities whose traditional ways of living are being threatened.

Now is the time to help communities adapt and build resilience in the face of climate change. With a dedicated research office in Yellowknife, more than 50 research sites across Northern Canada and a longstanding partnership with the Government of the Northwest Territories, Laurier researchers are on the ground, in remote communities and at the tables where decisions are made.

Through inspired research, Laurier is making a real impact in Canada’s North.

Northern Research Priorities

Climate Change Adaptation

Informed by the concerns of local people, researchers are addressing ice road safety, water security, forest fires, northern wildlife biology and carbon storage.

Indigenous Environmental Stewardship

Laurier researchers are co-creating best practices for environmental and data management that affirm the role of Indigenous peoples as stewards of their ancestral territories.

Northern Food Security

In association with the UNESCO Chair on Food, Biodiversity and Sustainability Studies at Laurier, faculty and students are working with communities to build sustainable local food systems.

Confronting a Fiery Future

As wildfires intensify across the Northwest Territories, Jennifer Baltzer is working with local partners to protect forest ecosystems and surrounding communities.

Tip of the Ice Road

Homa Kheyrollah Pour is collaborating with Indigenous communities to measure ice thickness in real time, determining the safest paths for essential ice roads.