Dr. Janelle Baker appointed CIFAR Future Flourishing Fellow to advance knowledge aimed at solving humanity’s biggest problems
Dr. Janelle Baker, cultural anthropologist and associate professor in Athabasca University’s Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, has joined an elite group of researchers from across Canada and the world.
Baker was appointed a Future Flourishing Fellow by the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR).
Based in Canada but with a global reach, CIFAR brings together the world’s best scholars and scientists at all career stages to examine the long the long-term intersection of humans, science and technology, social and cultural systems, and the environment.
“This fellowship is an incredible opportunity to think not only widely in philosophical ways, but also in practical, applied ways,” Baker said.
“It’s about looking at how we can translate these complex conversations into real-world solutions that can improve the future for all species and the environment.”
This fellowship is an incredible opportunity to think not only widely in philosophical ways, but also in practical, applied ways.
Janelle Baker, associate professor and CIFAR Future Flourishing Fellow
Future Flourishing program
Launched in 2023 with an initial group of 16 fellows, the Future Flourishing program has expanded to include up to four additional fellows. Baker joins researchers from across the world and across disciplines—philosophers, historians, curators, conservators, artists and anthropologists—to examine and explore how humans, other species, and the environment can flourish together to create a better world.
The program encourages participants to think broadly and creatively about how to influence public discourse and contribute to practical, positive change in the world.
As a new fellow, Baker brings expertise in anthropology, social sciences, and Indigenous studies.
The fellowship comes with $30,000 annually to support her research. Fellows meet in-person twice a year, with upcoming gatherings scheduled in Zurich and Tokyo.
Researchers ‘flourishing’ together
Baker said that she the other fellows have already started exploring the concept of “mutual flourishing,” which recognizes the connectedness and interdependence of human and natural systems. They've also started asking what’s required to create prosperous, thriving communities during a time when environmental challenges are so pressing.
Baker added that she’s particularly excited about how this idea intersects with her ongoing work in Indigenous food sovereignty, wild food use and contamination, and environmental monitoring.
“I feel like mutual flourishing is a really good term in thinking about truth and reconciliation. It’s thinking how Indigenous Peoples and settlers can try to live better together and in relation to the environment.”
Learn more about Baker's research
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