Maya Bhatia, a biogeochemist and associate professor in the Faculty of Science at the University of Alberta, died August 16 while on one of her many research trips to the Inuit community in Nunavut.
Arrived at the University of Alberta in 2017, Maya Bhatia was a researcher specializing in the study of climate issues related to the Arctic.
In particular, she had led a team of Canadian researchers examining the melting of glaciers, ice caps and ice sheets in order to learn more about the impact of future global warming on Arctic coastal productivity.
This is a great loss for the University of Alberta community
reads a statement from the University of Alberta.
The university adds that Ms Bhatia, through her research, was working to respond to issues of concern to the community, including water quality and climate change
.
To read and listen:
No details on the circumstances
No information was given on the circumstances of his death, which occurred in the hamlet of Grise Fiord, located on the island ofEllesmere, about 1500 kilometers south of the North Pole. It is the northernmost community in Canada, with a population of approximately 140.
-Nunavut’s Royal Canadian Mounted Police says the researcher was working with the territory’s emergency management team as part of her search efforts.
Nunavut Chief Coroner Khen Sagadraca says he is unable to investigate the death without a body. Therefore, the person is considered missing
he explains.
The university is currently working with the relevant agencies to complete the required occupational health and safety investigation of this incident.
writes the University of Alberta in a press release.
The institution says it will not release further details in order to respect the wishes of the deceased’s family.
With information from Emma Tranter
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