Convocation ‘24: Stephanie Chute-Ibsen, PhD in Land Reclamation and Remediation, Renewable Resources

Stephanie Chute-Ibsen, PhD in Land Reclamation and Remediation, Renewable Resources

“Trailblazing STEMinist” steps into their power as an environmental scientist and 2SLGBT+ community advocate

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With the gift of a microscope at the age of ten, Stephanie Chute-Ibsen can pinpoint the moment when their curiosity for science was piqued. Although at that time they could not envision that they would eventually become an ‘earth doctor’, the stage was set.  

It was a series of ‘eureka’ moments, says Stephanie, that led them to study land reclamation and remediation, starting with their discovery of soil science as an undergraduate. 

“The complexity and intricacy of soil, with its fascinating physical, chemical and biological properties, captivated me,” says Stephanie. “Soil is the foundation of life.”

As a queer, non-binary, and relatively recently diagnosed neurodivergent individual, Stephanie faced numerous challenges throughout their program, but learned to “step into their power” as a teacher and researcher. For Stephanie’s impactful contributions not only to their field of study and work, but also to the WISEST community, they were named a 2023 Trailblazing WISEST STEMinist. More recently, says Stephanie, they have been using the phrase, "them in STEM”.

“It was empowering to represent diversity in academia while connecting with students who were just beginning their own journeys in science,” says Stephanie, adding that as a mentor with WISEST's Summer Research Program, they learned the art of creating space for those who might struggle to speak up.

“This skill of inclusive leadership is something I now consider essential and strive to practice in all my professional interactions.”

Now a postdoctoral fellow under their PhD supervisor, M Anne Naeth, Stephanie’s careful stewardship of the land and the community continues. 

“As a newly minted ‘earth doctor’, I'm excited to take on more responsibilities, particularly in mentoring graduate students in our lab,” says Stephanie. “Beyond my research, I'm committed to continuing my work in equity, diversity and inclusion advocacy. As an openly queer research associate, I aim to lead by example, demonstrating that the 2SLGBT+ community has a vital place in STEM at the U of A.”

Congratulations Stephanie!

What led you to choose your current area of study, and why the U of A for your studies?

From a very young age, I knew I was destined to be a scientist. My parents nurtured my innate curiosity about the world, encouraging me to explore and ask questions. I vividly remember receiving my first microscope at age ten — a cherished gift that still adorns my office today, 27 years later, symbolizing the beginning of my scientific journey.

During my undergraduate studies I experienced what I can only describe as love at first sight — with soil science. The complexity and intricacy of soil, with its fascinating physical, chemical and biological properties, captivated me. Soil is the foundation of life. But I grappled with choosing a specific field that could encompass my broad scientific interests. When I discovered the field of land reclamation and remediation, it was a eureka moment. This multidisciplinary field allowed me to explore various scientific domains while specializing in soil science. Moreover, it offered the perfect blend of outdoor fieldwork, continuous learning, and most importantly, the opportunity to actively participate in healing our planet from human-induced disturbances and degradation.

The renowned land reclamation program and cutting-edge research in the Department of Renewable Resources aligned perfectly with my aspirations, but ultimately, the deciding factor was the opportunity to work with M Anne Naeth. I dreamed of working with and learning from Professor Naeth; ask and you shall receive. My choice to pursue this field at the U of A is also driven by my love for Alberta's diverse ecosystems and natural beauty. This area of study allows me to contribute directly to healing our planet through practical research that influences best management practices and regulations. It is deeply satisfying to know that my work has broad-scale applications and can help preserve Alberta for future generations to enjoy.

What is one of your favourite memories from your time at the U of A?

It’s nearly impossible to pick just one favorite memory from my time at the U of A,  given the sheer number of incredible experiences I’ve accumulated. One standout chapter of my journey was being a member of the Land Reclamation International Graduate School (LRIGS). This opportunity not only allowed me to forge lifelong friendships with colleagues who share my passion for the environment, but it also took me on unforgettable adventures, traveling to Germany and exploring both coasts of Canada. I loved every opportunity to get creative with our science outreach efforts. Helping to develop the Land Reclamation: Become an Earth Doctor Game was one of my proudest moments — a fun and engaging way to communicate our work!

Another highlight was my involvement with Women in Scholarship, Engineering, Science, and Technology (WISEST). As a queer mentor, I had the privilege of guiding the next generation while being recognized as a trail-blazing STEMinist. Coming from a strict Christian upbringing and navigating my identity as a late-in-life queer individual, it has been both challenging and liberating to embrace my authentic self in professional spaces. The acceptance and celebration I found here have been incredibly healing. I still get emotional thinking about receiving the Spirit of Dr. Armour Advocate Award for my participation as a supervisor in the Summer Research Program. It was such a touching moment that I’m grateful it happened over Zoom — thank goodness for virtual meetings! That unexpected honour truly meant the world to me.

And then there was Falling Walls! Participating in this competition was an exhilarating experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone. Coming in second place [for Breaking the Wall of Traditional Reclamation Assessment] and getting to pitch in Berlin on a high-stress global stage was nothing short of thrilling. Growing up in Germany until I was 12, this opportunity felt like coming full circle. The entire journey taught me so much about myself and helped me grow as a scientist. I also participated in additional Falling Walls events, including workshops focused on circular economy and bioeconomy, which allowed me to connect land reclamation with other research areas. It’s amazing how interdisciplinary collaboration can enhance our understanding and application of science.

Tell us about your favourite professor and/or class.

In a typical PhD program, you don’t take many classes, which is why I only enrolled in one, but it was also one of my absolute favourites, Advanced Soil Invertebrate Taxonomy with Heather Proctor in Biological Sciences. Professor Proctor is nothing short of amazing. Her brilliance and passion are truly inspiring, and she embodies what it means to be a mentor who goes above and beyond for her students. Throughout the course, she shared her extensive knowledge and generously provided access to her resources and lab space. She made me feel like a valued member of her lab team, encouraging my curiosity and fostering an inclusive learning environment. In fact, I often find myself thinking, "When I grow up, I want to be Heather Proctor," because she is an absolute icon.

In addition to my experience as a student, I had the incredible opportunity to serve as a sessional instructor in my department for one semester during my program. I taught a first-year forest ecology course, which was both exhilarating and daunting. As an openly queer and non-binary instructor, I felt a sense of bravery and boldness stepping into that role. It was empowering to represent diversity in academia while connecting with students who were just beginning their own journeys in science. This teaching experience provided me with a glimpse into what life as a professor could look like, and it reaffirmed my professional goals. The joy of engaging with students and sharing my passion for environmental sciences was incredibly rewarding.

Did you take on any leadership roles while you were a student? If so, please share your experiences.

During my PhD program, I embraced numerous leadership opportunities that significantly contributed to my personal and professional growth. These experiences not only allowed me to give back to the academic community but also helped me develop crucial skills that I believe will serve me well in my future career.

I served in various positions, including president, for our department's Graduate Students' Association (GSA). This role gave me invaluable experience in organizing events, advocating for student needs, and fostering a sense of community among my peers. A highlight was when I successfully secured a grant from the GSA to organize a mental health event for graduate students. This initiative was particularly rewarding as it addressed a critical need in our community and allowed me to make a tangible difference in my colleagues' well-being.

Beyond the GSA, I had the privilege of taking on supervisory roles that further honed my leadership skills. I served as a supervisor in WISEST's Summer Research Program, which allowed me to mentor and guide aspiring young scientists. Additionally, I supervised summer research assistants during the fieldwork for my thesis. These experiences were challenging but positive, shaping me into a more effective and empathetic leader. I discovered how to trust my instincts and step into my power, gaining confidence in my abilities to lead and make decisions. Perhaps most importantly, I learned the art of creating space for those who might struggle to speak up. This skill of inclusive leadership is something I now consider essential and strive to practice in all my professional interactions.

Did you face any significant obstacles or challenges during your program, and if so, how did you respond?

During my PhD program, I faced two significant challenges that tested my resilience and determination. These obstacles were not just academic hurdles but deeply personal struggles that impacted every aspect of my life. The first major challenge was experiencing extreme burnout, which I later discovered was related to undiagnosed ADHD. This condition significantly affected my ability to manage the demanding workload of a PhD program and maintain a healthy work-life balance. The struggle to keep up with expectations while dealing with unrecognized neurodivergence was exhausting and often demoralizing. The second, and perhaps more harrowing challenge, was becoming a victim of criminal stalking. This traumatic experience included being professionally outed, which added another layer of vulnerability and stress to an already difficult situation. The invasion of privacy and sense of constant threat had a profound impact on my personal and academic life.

Facing these challenges was undoubtedly the most difficult period of my academic journey. However, I'm grateful for the support systems and resources that helped me navigate through these dark times. I leaned heavily on my chosen family and community, who provided unwavering emotional support. My supervisor and my committee, and the university's Protective Services and the Sexual Assault Centre on campus were invaluable resources, offering practical help and a sense of security.

Therapy was crucial in processing my experiences and developing coping strategies. This professional support was instrumental in helping me rebuild my sense of safety and self.

Looking back, I'm amazed at how these experiences, though incredibly challenging, have led to profound personal growth. Through this journey, I've not only managed to clear these hurdles but have also reached a place of authenticity and peace that I hadn't thought possible before. I'm now able to envision a future where I've grown old  — a beautiful prospect that once seemed out of reach. These challenges have ultimately made me more resilient, empathetic and aware of the importance of mental health and support systems in academia. While I wouldn't wish these experiences on anyone, I'm proud of how I've overcome them and how they've shaped me into a stronger, more authentic version of myself.

What advice do you have for current and future students?

As someone who has navigated the challenges of university life, particularly at the graduate level, I have some advice that I believe can make a significant difference for current and future students:

First and foremost, be proactive about your mental health. University can be a pressure cooker, and if there are any cracks in your mental well-being, they're likely to show under this stress. Don't wait until you're drowning in coursework or your thesis to address these issues. Prioritize your mental wellness by regularly checking in with yourself or friends, and if possible, consider attending therapy. It's much easier to stay on top of things when you're maintaining good mental health rather than trying to climb out of a deficit when you're already overwhelmed. Secondly, don't be afraid to take big swings and put yourself out there. Whether it's applying for that seemingly out-of-reach opportunity, presenting at a conference, or reaching out to a potential mentor, sometimes these bold moves can lead to unexpected and wonderful outcomes.

Lastly, and this might seem a bit out of left field, but if you find the idea of graduate school appealing, especially the part about focusing on a specialized research area, consider getting tested for ADHD. Many people, myself included, don't realize they have ADHD until they're faced with the unique challenges of graduate-level work. Understanding your neurodiversity can be a game-changer in how you approach your studies and manage your academic life. Remember, your journey through university is not just about academic achievement. It's also about personal growth, self-discovery and learning how to navigate life's challenges. Be kind to yourself, seek help when you need it, and don't be afraid to explore the depths of your interests and capabilities. Your time at university can be transformative in ways you might not expect, so embrace the journey with an open mind and a focus on your overall well-being.

How do you plan on celebrating convocation?

I plan to celebrate my convocation in style, starting with a special gift: a custom fanny pack inspired by Western Stampin’ Barbie from Alysia Myette Designs. The leather fringe on it is absolutely to die for! It’s a fun and personal touch that reflects my unique style and the joy of this milestone. On the day of convocation, I’ll be surrounded by my fiancée, Nicole Oak, and the people I love the most; celebrating with loved ones is essential and I am lucky to be so loved by my chosen family. I envision a day filled with laughter, heartfelt moments, and even a fabulous fanny pack photoshoot.

What's next after graduation?

Having completed my PhD, I'm thrilled to embark on the next chapter of my academic career. I've accepted a post-doctoral fellowship with my PhD supervisor, M Anne Naeth, focusing on a project that assesses reclamation trajectories and success in high elevation grasslands. This opportunity allows me to build upon the skills and knowledge I've gained during my doctoral studies, applying them to new challenges in the field of land reclamation. As a newly minted "Earth Doctor," I'm excited to take on more responsibilities, particularly in mentoring graduate students in our lab. 

Beyond my research, I'm committed to continuing my work in equity, diversity and inclusion advocacy. A key focus for me will be exploring decolonizing approaches to land reclamation, recognizing the importance of indigenous knowledge and perspectives in our field. As an openly queer research associate, I aim to lead by example, demonstrating that the 2SLGBT+ community has a vital place in STEM at the U of A. This advocacy work feels particularly urgent given the recent rise in violence against Alberta's 2SLGBT+ community, especially targeting the trans community. As Marsha P. Johnson powerfully stated, "There is no pride for some of us without liberation for all of us." This sentiment drives my commitment to fostering allyship and activism among staff and students at the U of A. This next phase of my career is not just about personal growth, but about using my position and knowledge to effect positive change in both my field of study and the broader community.