This lab is located on Dena'ina Ełnena – the ancestral homelands of the Dena’ina peoples. In gratitude for their historic, present, and future stewardship of these lands, airs, and waters, we too strive to be good stewards and collaborators in how we do research.

We are part of the Institute of Culture and Environment at Alaska Pacific University, which is a small liberal arts college and is a Tribally controlled, Alaska Native-serving institution in Anchorage, Alaska.

Why WADER? Rather than being named after a person, our lab group coalesces around the broad themes described by this acronym. Practically, much of our fieldwork involves wearing waders. Metaphorically, we are unafraid to wade deep into scientific and social issues and get our feet muddy.

A lab where many types of research are possible. Where research is civically engaged and actionable. Where researchers work for and with stakeholders in a collaborative and accountable way. A lab that lifts each other up, holds each person to high standards, and recognizes that everyone comes to the table with their own strengths to contribute and opportunities for growth.