Canada’s Polar Knowledge Announces 2025 Northern Science Award Winner
Polar Knowledge Canada has announced the winner of the 2025 Northern Science Award. This esteemed honor recognizes individuals or teams that significantly contribute to the understanding of Canada’s Northern regions.
Recipient of the 2025 Northern Science Award
Dr. Homa Kheyrollah Pour, Ph.D., has been awarded the 2025 Northern Science Award and the Centenary Medal. The presentation took place during the ArcticNet Annual Scientific Meeting gala in Calgary, Alberta, on December 18, 2025.
Acknowledgment of Achievement
Dr. Kheyrollah Pour received her awards from Sue Kerr, Acting President and CEO of Polar Knowledge Canada, and Nathalie Robillard-Bergeron, Senior Program Manager of Grants and Contributions. This recognition highlights her outstanding scientific leadership and commitment to collaborative research.
Research Focus and Impact
Dr. Kheyrollah Pour serves as an Associate Professor of Geography and Environmental Studies at Wilfrid Laurier University. She also holds the position of Executive Director at the Cold Regions Research Centre and is recognized as a Canada Research Chair in Remote Sensing of Environmental Change.
- Specializes in climate-driven changes to lake ice, winter road safety, and water quality in the Northwest Territories.
- Established an ice thickness monitoring network in partnership with Indigenous communities.
- Integrates in situ sensor technology, remote sensing, and Indigenous knowledge for data collection.
Supporting Community Adaptation
The ice thickness monitoring network developed by Dr. Kheyrollah Pour provides real-time data on ice conditions. This initiative allows Northern communities to adapt and respond effectively to the challenges posed by unpredictable ice road conditions.
Dr. Kheyrollah Pour’s research significantly contributes to enhancing the resilience of Arctic communities in Canada. Through her work, she fosters a greater understanding of environmental changes and promotes local engagement in scientific efforts.
