Stephen Chastain is using the knowledge he gained in pursuing his master’s in resource and environmental management at SFU to begin a career in applied environmental science. His background in technical, research, policy and science communication roles provided him with the skills needed to excel in his current role as a Research Scientist in the Plastics Lab at the Vancouver Aquarium.

As a part of the Aquarium’s Ocean Wise Research team, Chastain studies the detection of microplastic pollution. Specifically, he is studying microplastic concentrations in seawater samples collected by vessels in the Arctic Ocean.

“I’ve always been fascinated by the subtle ways that humans affect the environment, especially the subtle, hidden ways that prehistoric people have influenced the world today. I am passionate about gaining broader perspective to discover innovative ways to approach the complex problems we face today that will define the future of human life on Earth.”