Overview

The Chief Scientist is appointed through Ministerial Order under section 15.1 (1) of the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act.

The role of the Chief Scientist is to:

  • communicate environmental science information to Albertans and government
  • provide scientific oversight on the provincial environmental science program

Responsibilities

  • Acts as a champion of science, research, and the role of evidence, as a recognized expert and active researcher in environmental sciences.
  • Provides scientific advice to address complex environmental challenges and opportunities facing the province and the government.
  • Promotes and builds scientific excellence through partnerships with Universities and other credible scientific and research based institutions and organizations.
  • Ensures scientific information coming from Alberta Environment and Parks meets rigorous ethical and scientific standards.
  • Establishes and upholds a public schedule for environmental science reporting to inform the Government of Alberta and Albertans.

Advisory Panels

In addition to the responsibilities listed above, the Chief Scientist also consults and supports the Science Advisory Panel and the Indigenous Wisdom Advisory Panel to ensure an improved understanding of Alberta’s environmental issues.

Meet the Chief Scientist

The inaugural Chief Scientist position was held by Dr. Fred Wrona. Dr. Wrona was appointed Alberta Environment and Parks’ Chief Scientist in June 2016 and retired in June 2020 after an extensive career, which included leading environmental science programs and initiatives at the provincial, national and international levels.

An interim Chief Scientist, Dr. Garry Scrimgeour, has been appointed to carry out the responsibilities of the role until a suitable candidate is appointed.

Recruitment for the position of Chief Scientist is currently underway. This page will be updated once more information becomes available.

Related

Environmental Monitoring