Marie Vivet

Resource and Environmental Management master's student in the Faculty of Environment

Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field

Since a very young age, I have been fascinated by the ocean and the life it sustains, from the microscopic phytoplankton to the majestic blue whale. Summer days spent along the shore, watching the tides roll in and pull away, strengthened my passion for understanding the adaptability of species along the coast. My interest in marine biology was later refined during my Bachelor of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at McGill University, where coursework in fisheries and marine science deepened my knowledge of aquatic systems. To further develop the skills needed for a career in collaborative fisheries governance, I am currently pursuing a Master of Resource Management (MRM) at Simon Fraser University. As a first-year student under the supervision of Dr. Kyle Wilson, I am motivated by the opportunity to contribute to research that supports sustainable fisheries and helps ensure that future generations can learn from and be inspired by the ocean as I have been. The growing threats to marine ecosystems, particularly from climate change, continue to motivate me to learn and contribute to the conservation and management of marine life.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

I came to SFU for the interdisciplinary nature of the REM program, the many opportunities for graduate research in fisheries, and, of course, the people with whom I would have the opportunity to learn from and work alongside.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

Given the ongoing development of a marine protected area network for the Northern Shelf Bioregion, my research will use data and computer models to investigate how areas with fishing restrictions on the Central Coast of BC affect the abundance, growth, and reproduction of groundfish. Through this work, I hope to support evidence-based fisheries management and contribute to the recovery of vulnerable stocks.

What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?

Quantitative Modelling, Fisheries Management, Central Coast Bioregion

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

My undergraduate studies provided me with a solid foundation in ecology and wildlife biology. Courses in fish biology, fisheries and wildlife management, and statistics were particularly valuable in preparing me for my current research, as they equipped me with practical experience in fish sampling and handling and strengthened my skills in data analysis. By presenting a team project at the 90th Congress at HEC Montreal and conducting field studies in multiple settings, I have learned to navigate the various stages of the research process, from collecting and analyzing data to presenting results to academic and professional audiences. My knowledge of marine science was expanded during an intensive two-week field course on marine mammals in Saint Andrews, NB. The opportunity to conduct marine mammal surveys in the Bay of Fundy and visit research facilities confirmed my interest in pursuing a career in marine biology and fisheries conservation.

Have you been the recipient of any major or donor-funded awards? If so, please tell us which ones and a little about how the awards have impacted your studies and/or research

Throughout my academic journey, I have been very grateful to be the recipient of scholarships and awards. To my delight, I have recently been offered the Kruger Products Bicultural Graduate Entrance Fellowship and Graduate Fellowship funding, which will provide valuable support for my research at SFU by helping me manage my educational expenses.

Contact Marie:mva75@sfu.ca

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