HCTF, in partnership with the First Nations-B.C. Wildlife & Habitat Conservation Forum and the Province of British Columbia’s Together for Wildlife Strategy (T4W) are proud to share more information about the 2026 Together for Wildlife academic scholarship recipients;
The Together for Wildlife scholarship is awarded annually to up to 10 master’s and Ph.D. candidates conducting research that will have a positive impact on stewardship, management, policy, or decision-making of wildlife in BC. This scholarship aims to support reconciliation and collaboration, diversity of perspectives, and building community among Indigenous communities and rural areas of BC.
2026 Recipients
Amanda Ketch
Amanda is a Masters at the University of Victoria. She is working in partnership with the Kwiakah First Nation to model winter habitat for Roosevelt elk in their territory. This project will pair data from a network of 40 remote wildlife cameras with publicly available environmental and forest data to identify key winter habitat areas.
Andie Siemens
Andie Siemens is a PhD candidate currently researching at Simon Fraser University. Their research examines how climate change affects the behaviour, reproduction, survival, and population dynamics of a unique Canada Jay population in the subalpine forests of Vancouver Island. Using more than a decade of demographic, behavioural, genetic, and environmental data, they will explore the combined effects of climate and social factors on population outcomes while also developing innovative public engagement and wildlife monitoring initiatives in collaboration with local partners and the K’ómoks First Nation.
Chelsea Camileri
Chelsea Camileri is a Master’s student currently studying at the University of British Columbia. Their research examines how two weevil species help control spotted knapweed, a harmful invasive plant in British Columbia. By understanding where and why these biological control agents succeed, the project will help land managers improve knapweed control and better protect native ecosystems and wildlife habitat.
Daphnee Tuzlak
Daphnee is a PhD student at Simon Fraser University. Her research assesses the extent to which long-term (millennial-scale) Indigenous land use practices have influenced terrestrial and freshwater systems. Daphnee’s work aims to support Gitxsan Wilps ‘Wii K’aax in their restoration and management plans for an Indigenous Protected Area.
Kara Atkinson
Kara Atkinson is a doctoral student at the University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus. Their project uses tracking technology and genetic analysis to better understand the behavior and habitat needs of three threatened snake species in the Okanagan. The findings will support conservation planning, identify important habitats, and strengthen Indigenous-led stewardship efforts on Osoyoos Indian Band lands.
Lauren Mills
Lauren Mills is a doctoral student at the University of British Columbia. Lauren’s research investigates how climate change may affect Northern Mountain Caribou populations in British Columbia, which are already experiencing declines and face an increased risk of extinction. Using GPS tracking data and Indigenous Knowledge, they will examine how warming temperatures influence caribou movement, habitat use, and exposure to predators such as wolves. The findings will help identify future critical habitats and support conservation planning, habitat protection, and restoration efforts to improve the long-term survival of Northern Mountain Caribou.
Madeline Frazer
Madeline Frazer is a master’s student currently attending the University of British Columbia – Okanagan. Their research examines whether glyphosate-based herbicides can build up in wildlife and disrupt gut microbiomes, potentially affecting animal health and behavior. By comparing mammals from sprayed and unsprayed B.C. forests, the project will help assess the ecological risks of glyphosate use and inform more responsible land management practices.
Melissa Butynski
Melissa Butynski is a PhD student studying at the University of British Columbia. Their research investigates how wildlife approach and use crossing structures that help animals move safely across roads. By understanding animal behavior near crossings and the broader effects of roads on habitat, the project will provide practical guidance for improving wildlife connectivity and reducing collisions on B.C.’s highways.
Peter Baker
Peter Baker is a PhD student at the University of British Columbia Okanagan under the supervision of Dr. Adam Ford. His research combines his interests in movement ecology and animal physiology to explore how wildfire risk reduction treatments influence the habitat, behavior, and energy expenditure of mule deer in central British Columbia. This work will help provide the evidence base needed to ensure fuel management strategies support healthy mule deer populations.
If you or someone you know may be interested in applying for the Together for Wildlife Scholarship, check out the following links:
