WOMEN IN SEABIRD SCIENCE
Reyd Dupuis-Smith
she/her
PhD Candidate
Carleton
University
Discipline
Behaviour, Conservation, Physiology, Public/Community Engagement, Reproductive Biology & Life History, Migration & Movement Ecology, Toxicology
Regional Focus
Inuit Nunangat, Canada
Years Active
6-10 years
Species Focus
Auks (Alcidae), Sea ducks and allies (Anatidae), Gulls and Terns (Laridae), Storm-Petrels (Hydrobatidae & Oceanitidae)
Tell us about your work with seabirds.
In my current role as a PhD candidate, in close collaboration with the Nunatsiavut Government and Environment and Climate Change Canada, my main focus is researching the sub-lethal impacts of oil spills on seabirds and the links to foraging ecology, bird health, and potential risks to humans through country food consumption. I am passionate about Indigenous-led research, toxicology, food webs, reproductive biology, and movement ecology, and also have a soft spot for seaducks.
What advice would you offer to individuals aspiring to pursue a career as seabird scientists?
Get to know the birds in your area, even if you aren't by the ocean. Learning those ID skills are helpful throughout your career! Additionally, learning scientific field and research skills on non-seabirds is helpful to start, and can springboard your knowledge when you get an opportunity to work on seabirds. Never be afraid to reach out to people about opportunities, connect to seabird researchers you relate to, and know you are powerful!
Reyd is wearing a royal blue hoodie and a dark green toque. She has a big grin on her face as she holds a Herring Gull that she had just banded near Nain, Nunatsiavut, Canada. The ocean, clear blue sky and islands are in the background as she stands on the speedboat.
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