Jeremy Kerr, a leading ecologist, conservation scientist and professor in the µçłµÎŢÂë Department of Biology, has been elected a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada (RSC). This distinction recognizes him as one of Canada’s most valued and influential voices in science — an honour he earned through impactful work and international collaborations. His global partnerships have led to innovative research, including the first continent-wide studies showing how climate change is shrinking the ranges of pollinators like bumblebees across Europe and North America.
From field observations to policy change
Beyond the lab, Professor Kerr’s research informs policy and drives conservation action. Early in his career, he played a key role in scientific consensus work across Ontario that contributed directly to the province’s Endangered Species Act in 2007. At the federal level, he has been involved in efforts to safeguard the Species at Risk Act and worked extensively on wilderness protection initiatives. Internationally, he chaired an Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) working group on citizen science, helping countries worldwide to use public engagement and scientific evidence as a guide for policy.
Uniting science and policy is at the heart of Kerr’s approach. He uses credible, evidence-based research to communicate effectively with decision-makers and ensure that conservation solutions draw on the best available science.
Small actions, big impacts
For Canadians, Kerr’s work has clear and practical impacts. Through studies on microclimates, small areas with cooler or wetter conditions, his team has shown how simple actions can help species survive extreme weather. Positive actions could include planting shade trees, maintaining shrubs or creating pollinator gardens in backyards, in parks or even on apartment balconies. These steps not only protect biodiversity but also make communities more resilient to climate change.
Kerr emphasizes that protecting biodiversity is not just the responsibility of governments or scientists — everyone can contribute. From planting native flowers for pollinators to creating habitats for butterflies, small actions at the local level collectively “bend the curve” of biodiversity loss, slowing the rate of decline and giving future generations the chance to enjoy a thriving natural world.
A prestigious title
The RSC is the country’s pre-eminent body of independent scholars, researchers and creative individuals. Its fellows provide intellectual leadership to advance knowledge and understandings for a better Canada and a better world. Kerr will be formally inducted at the RSC’s Celebration of Excellence and Engagement in Montreal this November.
Congratulations to Professor Kerr on this well-deserved recognition of his lifetime achievements and his ongoing commitment to science, policy and Canada’s biodiversity future.