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For one new assistant professor, witnessing a "1,000-year flood" firsthand became the pivotal moment that sparked a lifelong academic interest in community resilience and environmental justice. He now brings this experience to the U of A after completing his PhD at Rice University in Texas.

“The most rewarding aspect is witnessing that ‘spark’ in a student when they connect deeply with a concept or project,” he told us in this interview. Read on to learn more about his research on disaster recovery, the skills he finds most valuable and the advice he gives to aspiring academics.

Meet Alex Priest.

Tell us about your current role and the work you are involved in.

As a new assistant professor in the Department of Resource Economics and Environmental Sociology, my research explores issues of environmental inequality and justice, particularly in the wake of major climatic disasters. My current work examines the uneven effect of major hurricanes on residential relocation across households and communities.

What led you to pursue a career in your field?

I've always been driven by the energy that comes from discussing ideas people are passionate about. A career in academia felt like a great way to not only explore compelling questions with students, but also to contribute to these larger discussions with my colleagues. Being part of a community dedicated to discovery is a wonderful opportunity, and a key reason I chose this career.

Was there a particular moment or influence that sparked your interest?

Growing up on a small family farm, I have always had an appreciation for the environment. However, a pivotal moment for me was experiencing a "1,000-year flood" in my own community. Witnessing the unequal impacts of the disaster firsthand was a turning point that sparked my academic interest in community resilience and environmental justice.

How does your work or research contribute to the high-level goals of your department or unit, or even the UN Sustainable Development Goals?

My research on environmental justice directly contributes to the broader goal of building more equitable and resilient societies. My ultimate aim is to provide insights that can inform more effective and just disaster-related policies and to build connections between the university and the community of Edmonton.

What do you find most rewarding about your field?

The most rewarding aspect is witnessing that 'spark' in a student when they connect deeply with a concept or project. Seeing them not only grasp the material but also discover something new about their own passions and capabilities is an incredible privilege of being an educator.

Can you share a project or initiative you are particularly proud of? What was its impact?

I'm especially proud of a collaborative project with former colleagues examining disaster recovery policies, specifically government-led buyout programs that relocate households from flood-prone areas. The project has been rewarding, not only because it has contributed to the academic literature, but more importantly, because it has created a platform to amplify the voices of affected community members, ensuring their lived experiences are part of the policy conversation.

What skills or experiences have been most valuable to you in your work?

Effective communication, and more specifically, active listening. Research, even when you're the lead investigator, is a team sport. It has also been valuable for me to be able to listen and engage with the communities at the heart of my work. It wasn't a skill that came naturally, but consciously developing it has been one of the most valuable investments in my career.

What advice would you give to someone considering working in your field?

A former advisor once told me, "that perfect is the enemy of done" and it has always stuck with me. My advice is to embrace that idea. For me, it’s a reminder that while it's important to be rigorous and patient with my work, it’s equally important to know when a project is ready to be shared.

What is one thing that people would be surprised to know about you?

Perhaps not surprising given my rural background and field, but I am an avid outdoorsman and love to fish. If you have your own "big fish" story or know a spot along the North Saskatchewan, make sure to come by my office and chat. 

"We don't fish for the fish. 90% of what I like about this sport, and it is a sport, is sittin' in the boat for five hours doin' nuthin’." – Hank Hill