Whenever Benjamin Michalchuk looked up during his research fieldwork this past summer, he saw the tall slopes, ridgetops and ancient river terraces of the Athabasca, Little Smoky and Berland Rivers. His focus, however, was digging his shovel into the stinky, slimy peat of the ancient, now stagnant, sand dunes under his feet.

Using new and adapted mapping techniques, the Bachelor of Science student was working with Dr. Robin Woywitka and fellow student Brooklyn Miller to test a new model for predictive soil surveys. 

“Our model predicts the locations of soils of desired age, textures and composition,” explains Michalchuk. “If we can prove the new methods we’re testing, it could help industry, government and communities to preserve and protect some of the earliest natural sites in Alberta that have yet to be discovered.” 

Michalchuk, Miller and Dr. Woywitka completed a number of tests this summer and are using that data to write a paper on their findings. 

“It is very exciting to think about the possibility of research that I contributed to being published,” says Michalchuk. “This whole experience has confirmed that I’m on the right path. Getting involved in student research is one of the most validating things I think I could ever have done as an undergraduate. It’s been exactly what I needed to ensure that I’m prepared – and excited – for whatever comes next.” 

To be considered for a future Student Snapshots story, or to suggest someone we should feature, please email our communications team at communications@macewan.ca.