Indigenous Scientist Spotlight - Jesse Popp

Carolyn Martinko
24 hours ago
3 min read

Laurentian SETAC is proud to launch our Indigenous Scientist Spotlight Series, a platform dedicated to celebrating the achievements, perspectives, and contributions of Indigenous scientists who are advancing environmental science and toxicology.

Through this series, we aim to amplify the voices of Indigenous scientists and bring together diverse knowledge systems to address complex environmental challenges.

For our first spotlight, we are honoured to feature Dr. Jesse N. Popp!

Jesse Popp

poppj@uoguelph.ca

https://www.wiselab.ca/

Chair in Indigenous Environmental Science & Assistant Professor

University of Guelph

BSc, MSc, PhD

Laurentian University

What inspired you to pursue a career in environmental science/toxicology and chemistry?

The Land is my first teacher who has always provided protection, nourishment, healing, and comfort. I have a responsibility to care for the Land as the Land has always cared for me. All my relations have inspired me to speak for those who have no voice. I strive to uphold my reciprocal responsibility to the Land.

Can you share a bit about your current work?

The work that I do promotes inclusive science that embraces multiple ways of knowing in ecological research. As the PI of the Wildlife, Indigenous Science, Ecology (WISE) Lab, my partners, research team, and I work to weave together Indigenous and Western knowledge systems to contribute to the advancement of ecological science. Together, we embrace values-driven, holistic and transdisciplinary research approaches that investigate ecological research questions identified by the Indigenous communities and organizations we partner with. Our work is founded in respect, reciprocity, relevance, responsibility, and relationships – among humans and with the Land.

What are you most proud of in your career so far?

My career has been full of challenges. As a woman, as an Indigenous person, and as someone working hard to contribute to transforming the natural sciences – my journey has been far from easy. I was once an undergraduate student who felt very alone and out of place - but today, I lead in a field that is rapidly growing. I have been extremely privileged to mentor many young trailblazers who have gone on to plant their own seeds of change. Together, we watch them grow. I am proud of myself for never giving up. I am proud of all those I have worked with who have persevered no matter the challenges faced. Together, we carry strength and pride.

How do you bring Indigenous knowledge systems into your research or practice?

I work at the nexus of Indigenous and Western knowledge systems. Each being unique and standalone; however, together, provide holistic perspectives that improve research for the benefit of all. Through weaving ways of knowing - in a good way - ecological research excels, and the natural sciences advance in the spirit of reconciliation. While there is no ‘one-way’ to weave knowledge systems, our foundational approach of building genuine respectful partnerships with Indigenous peoples, Nations, and the Land, ensures that we co-develop our work and approaches leading us to success.

What challenges and opportunities have you encountered in bridging Indigenous science with Western science?

Challenges in any field abound. For me, as an early career researcher, Indigenous perspectives were seldom seen in the natural sciences. I felt alone. I often stumbled and fell. But we all fall down sometimes. What is important is that we get back up. Today, I see more and more people getting back up and overcoming obstacles. Few have become many, and together, we are making a difference.

Is there a project, insight, or message you would like to highlight for our L-SETAC audience?

Within each of us burns a flame. Sometimes our flame flickers, sometimes it may dim, but sometimes it blazes radiantly and shines light for others to see and feel. This is your flame. And only you have the power to feed the embers until your fire burns brightly enough to cast warmth to others. In all that you do, never give up, and always protect your flame.

Stay tuned for more Indigenous scientist spotlights!

If you would like to be featured on our website and social media, or if you know someone whose work should be highlighted, please fill out this form.