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Dr. Heather Cray, an instructor at the School for Resource and Environmental Studies (SRES) at Dalhousie University, brings a unique blend of extensive research and passionate teaching to the forefront of environmental studies. With a background in geography and restoration ecology, Dr. Cray’s work spans a wide range of environmental disciplines, reflecting her deep-rooted curiosity and commitment to making a difference.

Dr. Cray’s academic journey is a testament to her interdisciplinary approach. She completed her undergraduate degree at McGill University, where she pursued a joint honours in International Development Studies and Physical Geography. Her early research focused on the revegetation of thermokarst landscapes in the Arctic, a subject that revealed the long-term impacts of climate change on Arctic ecosystems. “Even after 350 years, the vegetation community doesn’t go back to what it was,” Dr. Cray noted, emphasizing the need to find new ways to mitigate human impact on the environment in a changing world.

This research led her to pursue a PhD in Restoration Ecology at the University of Waterloo, where she explored how human interventions can help ecosystems thrive. Her work has included diverse projects ranging from studying invasive earthworms in tallgrass prairies to studying bats in tropical ecosystems.

Although Dr. Cray’s current role focuses primarily on teaching, she also supervises MES and MREM students and engages in her own research projects. Her extensive background in pedagogy informs her teaching style, which is both evidence-based and engagement-focused. “I like to be evidence-based in my teaching,” she explained, “but it’s also because I have that background in several disciplines that I can supervise a range of projects.”

Dr. Cray’s interdisciplinary background allows her to bring a unique perspective to her teaching, particularly in research methods courses. She emphasizes the importance of making learning relevant to students and creating an environment where they feel safe to explore new ideas. “If you can make things relevant to the people you’re teaching and not be shy about showing your own interest and curiosity, it’s one of the most effective ways to teach,” she said.

One of Dr. Cray’s greatest joys is mentoring students and helping them develop their own research interests. She values the mentorship piece of her role, guiding students through their academic journeys and helping them navigate the complexities of environmental studies. Her ability to connect with students on a personal level, combined with her interdisciplinary expertise, makes her a valuable mentor.

Dr. Cray is particularly proud of the impact her students have had on public policy and environmental management. “Our alums are slowly taking over the world,” she jokingly remarked, noting that many of her former students are now working in policy, consulting, and NGO fields. These graduates are making tangible impacts in their respective fields, often hiring more SRES students for internships and full-time positions.

Dr. Cray’s teaching philosophy is rooted in clarity and purpose. She is meticulous in designing assignments that have clear learning outcomes and practical applications. “Nothing should be busy work. If you don’t know what the purpose is, then ask,” she asserted. This approach ensures that students not only learn the material but also understand its relevance and importance. Her commitment to teaching excellence is also reflected in her involvement with various pedagogical training programs. Dr. Cray completed a certificate in university teaching at Waterloo and has taken numerous courses to refine her teaching methods. This dedication to continuous improvement has enabled her to create a dynamic and engaging learning environment for her students.

Dr. Cray believes that SRES is uniquely positioned to tackle complex environmental problems through its interdisciplinary approach. The faculty’s diverse expertise and collaborative spirit create an ideal environment for innovative research and teaching. “Our faculty is extremely well suited to interdisciplinary problems,” she said. “Very few projects here are siloed in any meaningful way.” This interdisciplinary ethos is embedded in the structure of SRES’s programs, particularly the Tricourse, which encourages students to examine environmental issues from biophysical, socio-political, and economic perspectives. Dr. Cray emphasizes that this approach not only broadens students’ understanding but also equips them with the skills needed to address real-world challenges.

One of the strengths of SRES is its flexibility in accommodating students’ evolving interests. The school offers both MES and MREM programs, allowing students to choose between a research-focused or a course-based path. Dr. Cray highlighted that students have also switched between these streams as their interests develop, and the faculty fully supports these transitions. “We try to facilitate that change of focus and ensure they get the best supervision for whatever they end up being interested in,” she said.

Dr. Heather Cray’s work at SRES exemplifies the powerful impact of interdisciplinary teaching and research in environmental studies. Her dedication to student mentorship, evidence-based teaching, and continuous learning creates a dynamic and supportive environment for future environmental leaders. By fostering curiosity and critical thinking, Dr. Cray ensures that her students are well-equipped to tackle the pressing environmental challenges of our time, making significant contributions to the field and beyond.

For more about Dr. Cray’s focus on pedagogy, read here: https://www.dal.ca/faculty/management/news-events/news/2022/08/31/q_a_with_instructor_heather_cray_about_her_passion_for_pedagogy.html