September 2021

Canada in Space, Diversity in Space, LGBTQ2+

Meet Dr. Patrick Hill

Dr. Patrick Hill is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Alberta who is passionate about planetary geology and understanding planetary surface processes. His current research explores advanced curation methods for astromaterials. He did his PhD in Geology and Planetary Science & Exploration at Western University, where he focused on impact cratering, meteorites, and the origin of the Moon. During his degree, he also took on numerous roles in student organizations, including as Pride Commissioner for the council advocating for LGBTQIA+ graduate students, and was an active member of his university’s outreach program.

Canada in Space, Diversity in Space, LGBTQ2+, Women in Space

Meet Catheryn Ryan

Catheryn, a PhD student in Geology and Planetary Science at University of Western Ontario, shares their journey to their career studying microbial habitability of Mars-analogue volcanic environments. They also discuss the importance of LGBTQ+ representation in leadership positions and share their hobbies of sewing, knitting, and rock climbing. In order to build a welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ community in the Space sector, Catheryn believes that having as many LGBTQ+ people in positions of leadership as possible to act as examples and mentors would make a huge difference.

Canada in Space, Diversity in Space, Indigenous

Meet Dr. Hilding Neilson

Learn about Dr. Hilding Neilson, an assistant professor at the Dunlap Institute, who conducts research on astrophysics and the intersection of science, astronomy, and Indigenous knowledge. He shares his academic journey and his perspectives on being Indigenous in astronomy, as well as his favorite constellation, Muin and the Seven Bird Hunters.
Internal links: Dunlap Institute, astronomy, Indigenous knowledge, colonization, Western science, constellations