Dr. Kira Hoffman's research focuses on how humans have used fire for millennia to manage and enhance their natural surroundings.
Research topic
Research Description
My research focuses on how humans have used fire for millennia to manage and enhance their natural surroundings. In concert with Indigenous and local ecological knowledge, I use western science to better understand how present-day forests have been shaped by stewardship techniques such as burning and how ongoing fire suppression has eroded the resiliency of landscapes and human communities.
Why did you decide to pursue a postdoctoral fellowship at UBC? Did you consider other opportunities?
I returned to Canada in 2018 and was interested in studying fire ecology in sub-boreal forests, a place where few fire histories have been completed. I was excited to work with Lori Daniels who is a leader in fire ecology and place-based research.
What specifically attracted you to your research group?
After feeling the impacts of COVID and the associated isolation, I was very interested in engaging with a dynamic group of researchers. I wanted to make new connections and build a dedicated group of practice.
What advice do you have for new postdoctoral fellows?
Take time to be curious and enjoy the flexibility and wonder if simply working on one thing.
What do you like to do for fun?
I love nordic skiing with my family.
What is the most enjoyable aspect of your postdoctoral fellowship?
I love the freedom of working alone, but also the camaraderie of engaging with the broader research community.
What are the biggest challenges you have faced, or anticipate facing, in your career?
The biggest challenge I have faced is trying to find the right path to take with my field of study. The impacts of wildfires have been felt by most people in British Columbia and I want to use my skills in communication and research to extend and mobilize knowledge.
What in your life or career has prepared you for this position?
I was a fire fighter for many years and the practical experience that I gained in that position prepared me to understand how decisions around wildfire are made and the lasting implications of fire suppression.
What does receiving this award mean for your career?
Receiving this award has allowed me to focus full time on my research and also make more connections through networking.
What do you think the next step in your career will be?
My goal is to continue working with in northwestern BC to revitalize fire practices and create more fire resilient ecological and human communities.