Cape Breton University Students Stand Out Among Atlantic Canada’s Best at Science Atlantic Conference

Students from Cape Breton University earned top honours at the 2026 Science Atlantic Environment Conference, held March 14 and 15, as more than 70 undergraduate researchers from across Atlantic Canada gathered to present their work.

Hannah MacKinnon was awarded third place in the Science Atlantic Undergraduate Research Award competition for her project, Comparing the Health of Mummichog (Fundulus heteroclitus (Linnaeus, 1766)) in Open Hearth Park after remediation, to various reference estuaries. Supervised by Dr. Katherine Jones, her research examines ecosystem recovery following remediation efforts, using mummichog (a small killifish native to Atlantic Canada) as an indicator species to assess environmental health in coastal systems.

“These awards highlight the strength of undergraduate research at CBU and the dedication of our students to addressing meaningful environmental questions,” said Dr. Alana Pindar, Weston Family Professor in Ecosystem Health and Food Security.

Lara Dalton was awarded second place for Best Poster Presentation for her project, Echoes of Bell: investigating bumble bee (Bombus spp.) foraging acoustics at Beinn Bhreagh Estate. Supervised by Dr. Alana Pindar, her research explores the role of sound in pollination by examining how acoustic signals influence bumble bee foraging behaviour. Conducted at Beinn Bhreagh Estate, the former home of Alexander Graham Bell, the project connects biology, acoustics and ecological monitoring.

“Both Hannah and Lara have demonstrated exceptional commitment, creativity and scientific excellence,” added Dr. Katherine Jones.

The success of CBU students at the conference reflects the University’s continued investment in hands-on, experiential learning and its leadership in environmental and ecological research in Atlantic Canada.