Jose Atienza is an administrative specialist with strong roots in the Canadian Arctic, having grown up in Cambridge Bay and Iqaluit. He completed a BSc in Environmental Science from Carleton University (2020) and an MSc in Physical Geography (Climate Change) from Carleton University (2026).
During his undergraduate studies, Jose conducted thesis research in Iqaluit examining the impacts of the 2014 Iqaluit “Dumpcano” landfill fire on metal concentrations in sediment. His graduate research focused on long‑term trends in diatom community assemblages in Lake Temagami, evaluating ecosystem responses to multiple interacting ecological stressors. He has also worked as a summer student with the Nunavut Research Institute and the Nunavut Courthouse.
Jose brings over five years of experience with the Fisheries and Sealing Division, where he supported program delivery, procurement of services, and operational coordination for Arctic marine and fisheries initiatives. He played a key role as a liaison for the Research Vessel Nuliajuk, acting as an intermediary between researchers, shipyards, contractors, and vessel crews to support the effective delivery of marine science operations. Now based in Ottawa, Jose remains grateful for his continued connection to Nunavummiut and Northern communities. Outside of work, he competes in powerlifting in the 74 kg weight class.
