Laura Finnegan to lead fRI Caribou Program
The Board of Directors of the Foothills Research Institute (fRI) announces that Laura Finnegan will lead the newly formed fRI Caribou Program.
Laura joins fRI from Trent University where she was a Postdoctoral Research Fellow responsible for assessing genetic connectivity among caribou herds and ecotypes in Ontario. During this time Laura also prepared the Designated Units for Caribou in Canada report for the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC).
“Laura’s extensive research experience is complimented by her active participation in in numerous conferences, symposia, and invited talks. She has authored numerous peer reviewed publications and was an active Lecturer at Trent University. Her skill set is a great fit for fRI.” said Dr. Rick Bonar President, fRI and Chief Biologist, Hinton Wood Products, Woodlands, A Division of West Fraser Mills Ltd.
Working closely with the fRI Grizzly Bear Program, Laura will model a Caribou Program that meets the needs of fRI partners and provides knowledge and tools that will ensure the long-term conservation of Caribou in Alberta. “I am excited for this next chapter in my career and the opportunity to deliver practical applied research for fRI partners and contribute to caribou conservation in Alberta.” said Laura.
Laura completed her studies at the University of Dublin, Trinity College where she earned a B.A (Zoology) in 2002, a Postgraduate Diploma in Statistics in 2005, and a Ph.D (Conservation Genetics) in 2006.