DECEMBER 10, 1999
|
THE UNIVERSITY OF VICTORIA DECEMBER 10, 1999 |
| Dr. Michael Whiticar’s research into earth’s climate has been given an assist by the Canada Trust Friends of the Environment Foundation.
The earth and ocean sciences biogeochemist has received a three-year, $150,000 grant from the foundation to support his involvement with the earth systems evolution program of the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research. “Studying the dynamics of our planet is an extremely challenging occupation,” says Whiticar. “Mother nature does not give up her secrets easily and we’re often forced to look for them in highly unusual places on the earth. This includes diving to the depths of the ocean and climbing the world’s highest peaks. It also involves looking at some of the most unusual mineral and life forms on the planet. It’s often the unexpected relationships between these forms that provide insight into the operation of our world.” Whiticar’s research subjects include core samples from the bottom of Saanich Inlet and glaciers, which provide information about climatic and seismic evolution. By understanding past events, Whiticar and others are building a base for understanding how human activities may be influencing earth’s climate. Over 180 scholars work within CIAR’s nine major research programs that focus on health, social and economic policies as well as science and technology in Canada and abroad. |