By Chelsea Hintz

I arrived in Abisko one week ago and since then our group has been given the opportunity to explore our study systems from above by helicopter and from on the ground with an incredible hike. I’ve continued to nail down the final details of my individual research project and will hopefully be starting soon! At my home institution the focus of my dissertation is urban stream ecology and I’m excited about the opportunities to broaden my research experience through the LOREX program. Thus far, most of my field experience for my dissertation has been in heavily urbanized streams with culverts so I am especially excited to be experiencing the beautiful streams here in Abisko! My field work will range across both tundra and birch forest streams and I am looking forward to making the most out of my arctic summer by getting to experience the wide range of landscapes here.