Mimi E. Lam, Researcher and Marie Skłodowska-Curie Alumna, University of Bergen, Centre for the Study of the Sciences and the Humanities, Bergen, Norway
In addition to my affiliation at the University of Bergen, I am an Affiliate Assistant Professor at the Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, Canada and an Adjunct Associate Professor at the Department of Biology, University of New Mexico, United States of America. But foremost, I am a transdisciplinary scholar, with a PhD in theoretical chemistry and physics, passionate about making the world a more equitable and sustainable place for all!
Throughout my research career, I have worked across disciplines and cultures, preferably in collaborative teams, to solve challenging problems. My training in theoretical chemistry and physics allows me to tackle complex problems in the physical universe, such as the quantum and statistical realms of surface science. Now, my research in the human dimensions of fisheries and the human sciences more broadly delves into issues related to ethical ocean and food governance.
In coupled human and natural systems, humans are explicitly interacting with nature, affecting both its structure and dynamics. Applying analytical insights and methods from the physical sciences, I investigate the complex interactions governing social-ecological systems. Specifically, I am studying how human values, beliefs, perceptions, and behaviours shape our relationships with our biophysical and socio-cultural environments.
I do this to resolve ‘wicked’ policy and governance problems today, to gain theoretical insights of our evolutionary past, and to inform human decision-making for a more sustainable and just future. To promote ethically informed decision-making vis-a-vis our shared global environment, I collaborate with, and gain inspiration from not only scientists with expertise in various disciplines, but also stakeholders and citizens with diverse values and knowledge perspectives, including local and indigenous communities, industry, NGOs, and government.
I currently investigate three interdisciplinary and overlapping themes:
- Ethics and sustainability of seascapes and integrated seafood value chains.
- Sociocultural, institutional, and ethical aspects of marine policy and governance.
- Participatory research and community engagement at the science-society-policy nexus.