Faces of WISEST: Tyana Rudolfsen

I come from a family that takes pride in their service to Canadians and has a deep love for nature. These values have driven me throughout my career; at 16, I began my journey pursuing biology. I earned a position in the SRP in 2009, where I worked with Dr. Simon Landhäusser on forest reclamation - an experience that launched my career in ecology research.

Inspired by this opportunity, I co-founded my high school’s leading sustainability group with teacher Steven Schultz in Lacombe, AB. My WISEST experience gave me a strong foundation and competitive edge as I pursued my BSc at the University of Alberta.

Throughout my undergraduate years, I conducted field research in the Alberta oil sands and coal mines with Dr. Landhäusser, exploring diverse perspectives on sustainable development. I assessed urban riparian buffers with Dr. Cynthia Paszkowski and evaluated bird deterrents in the oil sands with Dr. Colleen St. Clair.

During a summer research job, I observed fish in unexpected locations, a pivotal moment reaffirming my passion for fish research. This led me to an undergraduate research project with Dr. Mark Poesch, culminating in an MSc in Conservation Biology, and a position with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO).

Today, I proudly serve as a federal research biologist in the Freshwater Ecosystems Research Sector at DFO, where I collaborate with other dedicated scientists to advance Canada’s freshwater ecosystem technology and management.

My journey began with WISEST, and its network continues to support my career. I am proud to be part of this community and grateful for the opportunities it created.