University of Guelph ecologist Prof. Merritt Turetsky has been named to the College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists, joining the “emerging generation of Canadian intellectual leadership.”
Created by the Royal Society of Canada in 2014, the College recognizes academics who have made exceptional achievements within 15 years of completing their doctoral degrees.
Turetsky, a professor in the Department of Integrative Biology, said she is “deeply honoured.”
“To be surrounded by such a talented group of scientists and artists is very moving and inspiring,” she said.
Turetsky is among 48 new scholars selected from nominees of Canadian universities and the National Research Council.
“This is terrific news that honours not only professor Turetsky but the University as a whole,” said Charlotte Yates, provost and vice-president (academic).
“It’s rewarding when our faculty are recognized for the impact of their teaching and research. We are proud of her accomplishment.”
Malcolm Campbell, vice-president (research), said Turetsky’s pioneering studies of the consequences of climate change have gained international recognition and improved resource management.
“Professor Turetsky represents the quality of research talent and translation at U of G,” he said.
Turetsky, who holds the Canada Research Chair in Integrative Ecology, studies changing environmental conditions and global methane emissions in the North.
Besides deepening understanding of ecosystems and resource management, her studies are intended to improve regional and global climate models.
Her research is supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council, the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and the National Science Foundation in the U.S.
She joined U of G in 2008 from Michigan State University; earlier, she was a post-doctoral researcher with the U.S. Geological Survey.
Founded in 1882, the Royal Society of Canada is the country’s oldest and most prestigious scholarly organization. The College of Scholars is intended to bring together scholars “at a highly productive stage of their careers” to promote interdisciplinary interaction and understanding.
Members are named for seven years. The 2015 cohort will be inducted at the annual general meeting Nov. 27 in Victoria, B.C.