Very Employable Person (VEP) - Malika Ouedraogo
- Jack Salole
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Check out our most recent Very Employable Person (VEP), Malika Ouedraogo!
Hiring? Or interested in Malika's research? Reach out via her contact information below.
MALIKA OUEDRAOGO
MSc
Biology, Chemical and Environmental Toxicology
University of Ottawa
Natural Resources Canada (CanmetMINING)
BSc
Environmental Science, Geochemistry and Ecotoxicology
University of Ottawa
Describe your involvement or experience with L-SETAC:
Member of the Diversity in Science Committee (DISC) Laurentian SETAC
Describe your short-term career aspirations:
I aim to build a strong foundation in environmental consulting and federal regulation, leading site investigations, ecological risk assessments, and environmental monitoring. I want to apply the rigorous research and analytical skills I developed through my M.Sc. and federal partnerships to projects that directly inform policy and protect ecosystems.
Describe your long-term career aspirations:
Long term, I aspire to operate at the intersection of environmental science and international policy, working in science diplomacy to help translate research into global solutions for shared environmental challenges. I also want to actively shape a more equitable STEM landscape, particularly for women and girls, through mentorship, advocacy, and leadership in international institutions.
Describe any interests or hobbies outside of academics:
I enjoy music, reading, cooking, and volunteering in community outreach.
If you could meet anyone, living or historical, who would it be and why?
I would choose Bozoma Saint John. She’s charismatic and commands every room she enters. Beyond her impressive career, spanning leadership roles at Netflix, Endeavor, and Apple Music, I deeply admire how she champions authenticity, diversity, and bold storytelling in male-dominated industries. As a Black woman leader, her confidence and vision inspire me to embrace my voice and advocate for inclusive, fearless leadership in STEM.
What is your most memorable graduate school moment and why?
My first CEW conference. I was nervous at first, but I really enjoyed it, met many people in my field working on similar projects, and built lasting connections.
What accomplishments are you most proud of, and why?
I’m most proud of publishing my first peer-reviewed paper. Seeing my name linked to real scientific impact, especially research that helps fill federal data gaps in lithium toxicology, reminds me that my work contributes to meaningful environmental decisions. It’s a tangible milestone that affirms my growth as both a researcher and communicator in science.
Anything else you'd like to highlight?
I am Bilingual in English and French, with hands-on field and laboratory experience in aquatic toxicology and federal risk assessment projects. I also bring a growing practice in science diplomacy and equity advocacy, which I see as inseparable from the work of environmental science.
Thesis Title:
Chronic Toxicity of Lithium on Pisidium dubium and Daphnia in Aquatic Ecosystems
Recent Publications:
Ouedraogo, A. M. M. A., Rickwood, C. J., Huntsman, P., Proulx, C. L., Pick, F., & Goulet, R. R. (2025). Chronic toxicity of lithium to the fingernail clam Pisidium dubium and the water flea Daphnia pulex. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.1093/etojnl/vgaf204
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