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1. Can you tell us about your research and how it connects to real-world geographic or planning challenges?

My research looks at how water levels and water movement influence how much carbon is released from a restored fen peatland. Peatlands are wetlands that store large amounts of carbon due to the waterlogged conditions that slow down plant litter decomposition. 

This makes them an important natural tool for reducing the impacts of climate change, as they keep carbon stored in the ground rather than releasing it into the atmosphere as greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane. 

However, peatlands around the world are being harvested for peat as this organic material they store is widely used in agriculture. As these ecosystems greatly benefit our environment, it is critical that their restoration is able to reinstate their carbon storage function. I am working at a 10-year-old restored fen in Manitoba where I study how water levels, the direction water flows, and dissolved carbon work together to influence the exchange of carbon between the land and the atmosphere. By better understanding these processes, my research helps inform how peatland restoration can be designed to support long-term climate benefits.

2. How has faculty mentorship at Queen’s supported the development of your research?

Faculty mentorship at Queen’s has greatly benefited my learning as well as my freedom to experiment with new ideas in my research. My supervisor, Dr. Ian Strachan, constantly encourages me to explore new papers and think creatively about my fieldwork and analysis. When first deciding what I wanted to focus on, I was provided reading material and contacts by my supervisor and co-supervisor. With their help I was able to feel confident in my area of study and meet with many experienced individuals that solidified my research topic decision. 

The Geography and Planning department is a supportive community that brings together human, physical, and planning perspectives. I have been able to draw from this network in various ways, including conducting water sample analysis in Dr. Melissa Lafrenière’s lab, where I received excellent guidance and mentorship. I have also benefited from the generosity of both current and former graduate students, who were always willing to share their knowledge and experiences. In addition, faculty such as the Queen’s library staff and professors in the geography research seminar have provided me plenty of guidance on grant writing, editing, and research resources that have helped me along my first year of graduate studies. 

3. What opportunities have most shaped your experience in the program?

The opportunity to live and work in another location for two field seasons has been one of the most meaningful parts of my graduate experience so far. I was hired as a research assistant in the summer of 2025, which allowed me to build background knowledge and try out research methods ahead of my own master’s field season in the summer of 2026.

Along with my lab team, I spent the summer in Manitoba setting up our field sites by installing monitoring equipment, surveying vegetation, and building boardwalks to access peatland areas. During this time, I was able to visit other restored sites, meet with our project partners from the peat industry and other universities, and work through the early learning curves of my research before formally beginning my own project.

Fully immersing myself in fieldwork and data collection helped bring the papers I read to life and has expanded my understanding of my topic. Ultimately, this experience has been especially memorable and has played a major role in building my confidence as a graduate student and researcher.

4. What advice would you give to prospective students considering Geography and Planning at Queen’s?

Advice I would give is to come in and take advantage of how interdisciplinary the program is. Geography and Planning at Queen’s allows you to combine the technical skills of physical sciences with environmental and societal issues. The interdisciplinary nature of the department also means it crosses over with others. Do not be afraid to reach out as geography faculty can introduce you to support and contacts from other departments and researchers that Queen’s has to offer. I would also give the advice to get involved, ask questions, and connect with faculty early. Make use of the department’s events such as the lightning talks and seminars as these are easy ways to connect with students or professors and get a feel for the various research happening at Queen’s. 

Inspired by Darby's story? Learn more about the Graduate Program in Geography and apply by January 31, 2026.