Interview: "Trace metals from glaciers can be both beneficial and potentially toxic for marine organisms"

In this interview, PhD researcher Silje Waaler shares her work on marine ecosystems impacted by glacial flour, her interest in glaciers and their environmental impacts, and her deep love for navigating the seas.

Can you tell me about your current research focus?

I'm currently focused on understanding the environmental impacts of glacial rock flour on marine ecosystems. This research is part of the MSCA Doctoral Network ICEBIO, an European initiative that investigates the biogeochemical and microbiological interactions associated with glaciers. My work specifically examines how nutrients and trace metals from glacial rock flour affect downstream environments. These trace metals can be both beneficial and potentially toxic, so it's crucial to understand their impact on marine life and water quality. By studying these interactions, we aim to gain insights into how glacial melting influences ecological systems, which is increasingly important in the context of climate change.

Photo credit: Sarah Tingey (UiT, METALLICA)

Where did you complete your undergraduate and master's studies?

I completed both my bachelor's and master's degrees at the University of Southern Denmark. My bachelor's degree was in biology, which provided a broad foundation in various subjects, including biochemistry, microbiology, and ecology. This broad approach allowed me to explore different scientific disciplines and ultimately led me to focus on biogeochemistry and microbiology during my master's studies. I was part of a vibrant research group at the university, which specialized in these areas related to deep sea research and provided me with the opportunity to work on projects related to extracellular enzyme activity. This experience was instrumental in shaping my scientific interests and prepared me for my current research endeavors.

What inspired you to pursue research related to glaciers?

My interest in glaciers and their environmental impacts was sparked during my undergraduate studies when I had the opportunity to travel to Greenland as part of a scientific project. This experience was transformative, as it was my first encounter with glaciers and the unique challenges they present. The trip involved sailing from Denmark to Northeast Greenland, where I conducted a small research project on mercury levels in seaweed. This hands-on experience in a remote and dynamic environment fueled my passion for understanding the complex interactions between glaciers and their surrounding ecosystems. When I later moved to Tromsø, it felt like the perfect place to pursue my dream of studying glaciers and their environmental impacts, given the region's proximity to the Arctic and its active research community.

Photo credit: Hauke Griffel

What are some of the challenges you face in your research?

One of the main challenges in my research is the remote and often harsh environments where glaciers are located. Conducting fieldwork in these areas requires careful planning and adaptability, as weather conditions can change rapidly. Additionally, the complexity of the ecosystems we study means that there are many variables to consider, from the chemical composition of the rock flour to the biological responses of marine organisms. Collaborating with other researchers and utilizing advanced technologies are essential to overcoming these challenges and gaining a comprehensive understanding of the systems we study.

Photo credit: Cathrine Larose

What do you enjoy doing outside of your research?

Outside of my scientific pursuits, I have a deep love for sailing. There's something incredibly freeing about navigating the seas and exploring remote places. One of my favorite sailing spots is the "Caribbean of Denmark," a region with numerous small islands that offer both beauty and adventure. Sailing has been a significant part of my life. Previous to starting my journey through university I obtained a professional license as an Ordinary Seaman through the trainee ship Georg Stage and a Yacht master of 3^rd degree for pleasure vessels. In addition to sailing, I enjoy hiking and cross-country skiing, which are perfect activities for exploring the stunning landscapes of Norway. I also have a passion for music and played the mandolin in a folk band during my university years. This creative outlet provided a counterweight to my academic work.

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Silje Waaler is an iC3 affiliated PhD student with the ICEBIO project, working in Tromsø, the capital of Arctic Norway. To find out more about her work with glacial flour, please check out her list of publications, or contact her by email or on LinkedIn.

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