WJ (Wieger) Joustra

PhD candidate in polar biogeomorphology with theoretical and practical experience in plant ecology, experimental design, remote fieldwork and statistical modelling. Fascinated by the interactions between biotic and abiotic ecosystems components in extreme environments.

High Arctic permafrost hillslopes are becoming increasingly unstable due to increased temperatures and summer rainfall. Some of this instability may be alleviated by the encroachment of vegetation, which can act as a thermal insulation, retain excess rainfall, and reinforce the soil with roots. Using aerial imagery analyses and field experiments, I will study the extent of these mechanisms in my PhD as part of the Uncertain Ground project.