To see profiles of LESA Lab Alumni – Please click here.

Graduate Students

Riley Hennifent (MSc)

I recently completed a BSc in Environmental Science (Biology) at Memorial University’s Grenfell Campus. Throughout my youth, I have always had a deep interest in the environment and all it has to offer. During my undergraduate studies, I developed a fascination with the structure and dynamics of ecological systems. Whenever I explore the outdoors, I find myself applying the knowledge I gained during my degree to better understand how ecosystems function and how we as humans impact these systems. While considering topics for my master’s project, the answer came to me during an afternoon walk when some colorful lichens caught my eye. After returning from the walk and exploring more about lichens, I discovered their importance in landscape ecology and environmental monitoring. With so much to learn, I am excited to be a part of the LESA lab and eager to gain experience in the fields of lichenology and landscape ecology. Outside of academia, I have worked at the Corduroy Brook Enhancement Association (CBEA) for three years. CBEA is a non-profit organization that focuses on environmental conservation, public education, and community engagement, allowing me to expand my knowledge while sharing my knowledge with the community. In my free time, I enjoy participating in numerous activities outdoors, spending time with family and playing guitar.

Jeremy Hussey (MSc)

Bio: I recently completed my undergrad at Carleton University in biology where I developed a keen interest in understanding how ecosystems operate at a larger scale. As I have a strong ancestral connection to the island, I was instantly drawn to furthering my education by pursuing an MSc in biology at the Memorial University of Newfoundland. I am currently working in conjunction with Parks Canada to understand the effects that moose and other disturbances have on lichen biodiversity. In my spare time I’m usually up on the hills hunting or fishing with my dog, or just generally exploring! I am extremely new to the world of lichen’s, but I am very excited to learn as much as I can with the LESA lab!

Hayley Paquette (PhD)

Hometown: Honeywood, Ontario

About Me: I recently completed an MSc. in Biology at Carleton University in Ottawa where my research took me to Forillon National Park on the Gaspé Peninsula of Quebec. I spent almost two months combing the park for lichens, collecting voucher specimens and documenting their habitat to establish a baseline species list for the park. I think simple questions can have the most interesting answers, especially when it comes to lichens, and I am thrilled to be joining the LESA lab to continue researching lichen ecology and biogeography in Canada. Outside of academia, I have worked in a factory, bakery, bar, NGO, and iron mine, to name a few. I bike, paddle, ski and anything else that takes me outside; and I love talking about trips (past and future).