PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR

Dr. Mark S. Poesch

Associate Professor · Fisheries and Aquatic Conservation

Department of Renewable Resources · University of Alberta

I lead the Fisheries and Aquatic Conservation Laboratory, where our research investigates how environmental change affects freshwater biodiversity—and how scientific evidence can guide effective conservation, sustainable development, and aquatic ecosystem restoration. Our work connects field ecology, laboratory experiments, population genetics, environmental DNA, telemetry, food-web analysis, and quantitative modelling with real-world management challenges.

Explore our research →    Publications →

RESEARCH LEADERSHIP

Science that supports freshwater conservation

My research program is organized around three complementary approaches to environmental management:1. Conserve; 2. Sustain; 3. Restore. Together, these themes represent a continuum of conservation strategies—from protecting vulnerable species and ecosystems, to developing sustainable approaches to resource use, to restoring aquatic environments affected by human activities. At the heart of my research is understanding how environmental change affects freshwater biodiversity and translating that knowledge into practical conservation solutions. Working with students and collaborators, we investigate species at risk, aquatic invasive species, river connectivity, habitat offsetting, and ecological responses to environmental disturbance.

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BACKGROUND & SERVICE

Academic training and professional contributions

I earned my PhD in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from the University of Toronto (2010), an MSc in Zoology from the University of Guelph (2004), and a BSc (Honours) in Biology with Environmental Science from Western University (2002). Before joining the University of Alberta in 2012, I was an NSERC Postdoctoral Visiting Fellow with Fisheries and Oceans Canada, where I contributed quantitative modelling and scientific advice for freshwater species recovery. My professional contributions include government science advice and species-at-risk assessments, serving two terms (2012–2020) on the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) Freshwater Fishes Subcommittee and three terms beginning in 2013 on Alberta’s Endangered Species Program Scientific Subcommittee, as well as leadership within the American Fisheries Society, including serving as President of its Canadian Aquatic Resources Section and Mid-Canada Chapter.

SELECTED DISTINCTIONS

Research and recognition

I have contributed to over 100 peer-reviewed publications spanning freshwater ecology, aquatic invasions, species recovery, quantitative research, and conservation management. I received the 2020 Stevenson Award for innovative contributions to aquatic science. I also contribute to national and international research collaborations, provide scientific advice to government, and support species-at-risk assessment and recovery, including work with COSEWIC.

TEACHING & MENTORSHIP

Developing the next generation of freshwater scientists

Mentoring students and early-career scientists is central to my work. I encourage students to develop independent questions, gain field and analytical experience, publish their research, and communicate with the people who use science to make environmental decisions. At the University of Alberta, I teach fisheries and wildlife management, advanced fisheries methods, and contribute to field-based and environmental assessment courses.

Why join the lab →    Why Join the University of Alberta →

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS

Learning and working with communities

Building relationships with Indigenous peoples and local communities is an important part of my work. Through community-based research and educational activities in northern Canada, I share fisheries science while recognizing the knowledge, experience, and priorities of the people who live alongside these aquatic ecosystems. My collaborations have also taken me to the Brazilian Amazon, where local perspectives enrich freshwater research, and to international discussions about fisheries and food security, including at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations in Rome.

Connect and collaborate

I welcome discussions about freshwater conservation research, scientific collaborations, and opportunities for motivated students and researchers.

Contact Dr. Poesch →Research opportunities →