Kimberly Rochefort

Masters Student

Biology, Specialization in Chemical and Environmental Toxicology

rochefort.kimberly@gmail.com

Bio:

Kimberly has a BSc of Science with a specialization in Forensic Science from Laurentian University. Her academic journey, combined with her current work in public health, has sparked a deep interest in environmental toxicology. She is particularly drawn to exploring how environmental exposures impact population health and is committed to focusing on a preventive approach, aiming to reduce health risks before they arise, rather than relying solely on curative measures.

Kimberly also has a growing interest in environmental toxicology and genetics. She is particularly focused on how chronic exposure to environmental contaminants – such as heavy metals, endocrine disruptors, and air pollutants – can induce genetic mutations, epigenetic changes, or transgenerational effects that increase susceptibility to disease. With a focus on preventative health, she aims to contribute to research that identifies these risks early and informs strategies to reduce population-level exposure, including long-term health impacts.

Research Project:

Kimberly’s research investigates how long-term exposure to legacy pollutants – such as arsenic from historical mining – within local communities in the Northwest Territories may lead to genetic mutations, DNA damage, and epigenetic changes that increase disease risk.