Thomas Therriault,

DFO-Nanaimo

Dr. Therriault is a Research Scientist with Fisheries and Oceans Canada at the Pacific Biological Station in Nanaimo, BC.  Since joining DFO in 2002 he has maintained a broad research program related to invasion and conservation ecology, initially working on small pelagic species like eulachon and herring and shifting to invasive species when this became a priority for the Government of Canada.  He has more than 15 years’ experience working on aquatic invasive species issues in both marine (e.g., tunicates, European green crab) and freshwater (e.g., dreissenid mussels).  His research program includes elements at the regional (British Columbia), national, and international (via intergovernmental organizations such as the North Pacific Marine Science Organization (PICES)) scale.  His diverse invasive species program includes research on impacts and potential mitigation measures for high risk aquatic species; monitoring and early detection, including application of novel molecular methods; risk assessment for both species and vectors (e.g., recreational boats, Japanese tsunami debris).  An underlying component of Dr. Therriault’s research includes identifying and understanding the spatial and temporal scales of marine stressors, including aquatic invasive species, as they impact ecosystem structure, function and resilience.  His various research project outcomes often are applied directly to address management or policy questions or concerns through the development of tools, frameworks, and advice.