Transforming a Childhood Passion for Snow into a Career in Climate Science: The Journey of Linette Boisvert
Linette Boisvert has successfully translated her childhood fascination with snow into a prominent career as a sea ice scientist, focusing on the critical study of climate change. This article delves into her professional journey, her contributions to the field, and her role at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center.
Profile Overview:
- Name: Linette Boisvert
- Title: Assistant Lab Chief, Cryospheric Sciences Branch, and Deputy Project Scientist for the Aqua Satellite
- Formal Job Classification: Sea Ice Scientist
- Organization: Cryospheric Science Branch, Science Directorate (Code 615)
The Role at Goddard:
Linette Boisvert’s work primarily revolves around studying the interactions between sea ice and the atmosphere. Her research is vital in understanding how the changing conditions of sea ice and the loss of Arctic ice impact atmospheric conditions in the Arctic region.
Educational Background and Inspiration:
Growing up in Maryland, Linette’s love for winter weather began with school cancellations due to snow. This early interest in weather’s impact on daily life led her to pursue a career in atmospheric sciences. An influential moment came during her undergraduate studies when a guest lecturer spoke about the Arctic, inspiring her to focus on Arctic science. This coincided with the historic Arctic sea ice minimum in 2007, further cementing her interest.
Linette obtained a B.S. in Environmental Science with a minor in Mathematics from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) in 2008. She then pursued her master’s and later a Ph.D. in Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences from the University of Maryland, College Park, completing her doctorate in 2013.
Joining Goddard:
Linette’s journey to Goddard began when her doctorate advisor, who worked at the center, brought her into the lab for her Ph.D. research in 2009. After completing her doctorate, she became a post-doctorate researcher in 2013, an assistant research scientist in 2016 (employed by UMD/ESSIC), and finally a civil servant in 2018.
Field Work and Operation IceBridge:
One of the most intriguing aspects of Linette’s role has been her participation in NASA’s Operation IceBridge from 2018 to 2020. Serving as the deputy project scientist for this extensive airborne campaign, she contributed to flying scientific instruments over land and sea ice in both the Arctic and Antarctic.
During the spring, the team set up a base camp at a U.S. Air Force base in Greenland, flying over parts of the sea ice. In the fall, they conducted flights over the Antarctic from bases in Punta Arenas, Chile, and Hobart, Australia. These flights, conducted at a low altitude of 1,500 feet, offered a breathtaking and up-close view of the ice.
The remote environment of Greenland, characterized by its vast, white landscape devoid of ambient noise, provided a unique experience. The team, consisting of about 20 people, often felt like a family, cooking together and embarking on adventures during downtime. The camaraderie and shared experiences, such as spotting Arctic wildlife and exploring glaciers, added a special dimension to the scientific mission.
Role with the Aqua Satellite:
In January 2023, Linette assumed the role of deputy project scientist for the Aqua satellite, a mission launched in 2002. Aqua plays a crucial role in measuring Earth’s atmospheric temperature, humidity, and trace gases. The data from Aqua has been instrumental in Linette’s research, particularly in studying the effects of Arctic sea ice loss on atmospheric conditions.
Linette expressed a sense of fulfillment and honor in joining the Aqua team, describing it as a full-circle moment. She is grateful for the opportunity to work with a dedicated and brilliant team, continuing her research on climate change.
Personal Influences and Mentorship:
Linette credits her father, who holds a doctorate in computer science and math and works at the National Institute of Standards and Technology, as her science hero. His encouragement and example inspired her to pursue a doctorate in science. Her mother, a French pastry chef, also played a supportive role, ensuring Linette was well-fed throughout her academic journey.
Claire Parkinson, an emeritus project scientist for Aqua, has been a significant mentor for Linette at Goddard. Claire’s confidence in Linette’s abilities encouraged her to apply for the deputy project scientist position, and she continues to provide guidance and support.
Mentoring the Next Generation:
Linette has recently begun mentoring young scientists, including one undergraduate student, two graduate students, and one post-doctoral scientist. She emphasizes the importance of creating a comfortable, respectful, and inclusive environment where they can thrive in their research and feel a part of the Goddard community. Through weekly group meetings and individual sessions, Linette provides guidance and support, helping them navigate their scientific careers.
Personal Interests and Future Aspirations:
Outside of her professional life, Linette enjoys running, paddle boarding with her long-haired dachshund Remi, reading, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. Despite her mother’s culinary influence, she does not enjoy cooking and does not bake French pastries.
Looking ahead, Linette hopes to continue her research and fieldwork, with aspirations of seeing some of her students join her lab after completing their studies. She aims to keep making those around her proud of her achievements.
Six-Word Memoir:
When asked to describe herself in six words, Linette chose: Hard-working. Smart. Inquisitive. Adventurous. Kind. Happy.
Additional Insights:
Linette Boisvert’s story is an inspiring example of how a childhood passion can evolve into a meaningful and impactful career. Her journey highlights the importance of mentorship, the value of teamwork, and the excitement of scientific discovery. For those interested in the fields of climate science and atmospheric research, Linette’s experiences offer valuable insights and encouragement.
Reference and Further Reading:
This article is part of the "Conversations With Goddard" series, which features Q&A profiles showcasing the diverse and talented workforce at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center. These profiles have been published bi-monthly since May 2011. To read more about the people at Goddard, visit the Goddard’s “Our People” webpage.
By Elizabeth M. Jarrell, NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md.
This comprehensive look at Linette Boisvert’s career provides a detailed and engaging narrative for readers of all backgrounds, offering a window into the world of climate science and the dedicated professionals working to understand our changing planet.
For more Information, Refer to this article.
