My name is Alix Brusseau, and I am a French scientist who moved to Canada in March 2021 to pursue a PhD. I've always been passionate about biodiversity, and observing the species around me remains one of my favorite hobbies. Over time, I became increasingly aware of how fragile the balance between species is—constantly threatened by climate change and human activities. Freshwater ecosystems, in particular, are among the most vulnerable to these changes.
Animal behavior serves as a powerful early indicator of environmental stress, as behavioral shifts occur much faster than changes in morphology or life history traits. While physical adaptations take years or even decades to develop, behaviors can change instantly in response to new conditions. As I studied ecosystems and behavioral ecology, I realized how crucial behavioral research is to understanding the impacts of climate change. This realization led me to specialize in this field for my PhD, with the goal of contributing to the conservation of freshwater ecosystems.
Beyond science, I love hiking, reading (my favorite author is Stephen King), watching movies, and painting with watercolor.