Laurentian Graduate Aidan Maloney Leads Species at Risk Program with Wasauksing First Nation

July 6, 2026 – Laurentian University alumnus Aidan Maloney (Master of Science in Biology, 2024) is turning his academic passion for reptiles into real-world conservation impact. Today, Maloney serves as the Lead Biologist (Species at Risk) for the Wasauksing First Nation Lands and Resources Office along the eastern coast of Georgian Bay.

Maloney’s role highlights a strong connection between Laurentian’s renowned Litzgus Lab and meaningful regional careers, with graduates transitioning directly into environmental leadership roles within regional First Nation communities.

Based in eastern Georgian Bay—a known hotspot for reptile diversity—Maloney manages a complex monitoring program. On any given day, he can be found conducting nesting and basking surveys, or using radio-telemetry to track vulnerable species, including Blanding’s Turtles, Eastern Foxsnakes, and the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake.

"One of the most valuable aspects of my graduate experience was having a high degree of independence in managing my research," says Maloney, who conducted his research out of the Vale Living with Lakes Centre. "The independence I gained during my Master of Science directly prepared me to coordinate and oversee this program."

Our research environment gave him the tools to succeed. Beyond fieldwork, Maloney spends a significant portion of his time on community outreach, creating educational materials, and participating in local ceremonies. He emphasizes that the true reward of his role relies on human connection and mutual respect.

"The most rewarding aspect is building meaningful relationships within the community," Maloney shares. "It is incredibly rewarding to work in an environment where knowledge sharing goes both ways. I have the opportunity to share my expertise while continually learning from community members and their perspectives."

Originally from Toronto, Maloney had to move to a new town and adapt to a new environment to accept this role. His advice to current Laurentian biology and environmental science students is simple: embrace the unfamiliar.

"My biggest piece of advice is to be willing to step outside your comfort zone," Maloney says. "That willingness to embrace a new challenge has been incredibly rewarding."