Kirill Shchapov - cyanobacteria blooms - Best Researcher Award
AUTHOR PROFILE
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Kirill Shchapov earned his Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Minnesota Duluth, where he focused on the seasonal community and food web dynamics of planktonic and benthic organisms in temperate lakes, with an emphasis on winter. His research, guided by Dr. T. Ozersky at the Large Lakes Observatory, delved into the intricate relationships within aquatic ecosystems during the winter months. Prior to this, he completed his Aspirant studies (equivalent to a Ph.D.) at Irkutsk State University in Russia, where he investigated the effects of meteorological and environmental conditions on the phytoplankton of Lake Baikal under the mentorship of Dr. E. Silow. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Environmental Studies from the Faculty of Geography at Irkutsk State University.
RESEARCH INTERESTS
Kirill Shchapov’s research interests are centered around aquatic biology, with a particular focus on plankton ecology, winter limnology, and aquatic food webs. He is deeply interested in understanding how environmental drivers influence planktonic communities, especially during the less-studied winter months. His work aims to uncover the hidden dynamics of aquatic ecosystems, contributing valuable insights into how these systems respond to changing environmental conditions.
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
Kirill has a strong background in teaching, having served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant for the course Biology and Society (BIOL 1001) at the University of Minnesota Duluth. He also took on the role of Lead Instructor for Lake Ecology (BIOL 5861) at the same institution. Through these roles, he has inspired and educated students on the complexities of biological systems, particularly within the realm of aquatic ecology.
RESEARCH EXPERIENCE
As a Postdoctoral Researcher at York University in Dr. Sapna Sharma’s Laboratory, Kirill has been involved in cutting-edge research projects focused on the long-term effects of environmental stressors on the water quality in the Great Lakes and the study of cyanobacteria in nearshore regions of Lake Superior. His work also includes a review of the loss of lake ice, providing a comprehensive perspective on this critical issue. His doctoral research at Irkutsk State University further explored the impact of environmental conditions on Lake Baikal's phytoplankton, utilizing a combination of long-term monitoring data and contemporary ecological methods.
PUBLICATIONS
Kirill Shchapov has contributed significantly to the field of limnology through his publications. His research on cyanobacteria in Lake Superior, the seasonality of benthos, and the dynamics of crustacean zooplankton has been featured in prestigious journals like the Journal of Great Lakes Research and Limnology and Oceanography. His collaborative work with international researchers has expanded the understanding of aquatic ecosystems, particularly in cold and temperate lakes.
INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATIONS
Kirill has actively engaged in international research collaborations, enhancing his research through diverse perspectives and methodologies. Notably, his time as a visiting research student at Wellesley College under the guidance of Dr. Marianne V. Moore provided him with valuable experience in mesocosm experiments and limnological techniques. This collaboration explored the effects of solar UV radiation on zooplankton migration, further broadening his expertise in aquatic biology.
CONTRIBUTIONS TO AQUATIC SCIENCE
Kirill’s work has made substantial contributions to the field of aquatic science, particularly in understanding the impacts of environmental changes on planktonic communities. His research on the loss of lake ice and its ecological implications, as well as his studies on the unique dynamics of aquatic organisms during winter, have provided critical insights into the resilience and adaptability of aquatic ecosystems. His ongoing research continues to shed light on the complex interactions within these ecosystems, helping to guide future conservation and management efforts.
NOTABLE PUBLICATION