September 12, 2023
Annemieke Farenhorst is the Associate Vice-President (Research) at the University of Manitoba. She is a Full Professor of Soil Science and a Registered Professional Agrologist. Dr. Farenhorst earned a doctoral degree in Geography from the University of Toronto, and a doctorandus degree in Physical Geography and Soil Science from the University of Amsterdam.
Dr. Farenhorst has supervised more than 100 natural and social science research trainees. Her research program focuses on the fate of organic chemicals such as pesticides and antimicrobials in soil and water, as well as on community-based collaborations for strengthening human and ecosystem health. Dr. Farenhorst has led large networks to advance food security in Central America, and since 2011, has been active in research and outreach partnerships with First Nations.
Dr. Farenhorst served as the Prairie NSERC Chair for Women in Science and Engineering from 2011-2020. The Chair program raised the level of participation of women as students and professionals and strengthened the recruitment and retention of Indigenous students in university programs. Dr. Farenhorst also led workplace climate surveys at 21 Canadian universities and this work is recognized to be among the most comprehensive current data available on gendered challenges at Canadian universities.
Dr. Farenhorst serves on the Genome Prairie’s Board of Directors and is the elected Vice-President of the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry Division VI (Chemistry and the Environment). Through her activities on the Board of Directors of the Verna J. Kirkness Foundation, Dr. Farenhorst remains passionate about increasing the number of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students at Canadian universities.
Dr. Farenhorst has been recognized for her professional contributions through a range of awards including the Women’s Executive Network Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100 Award, and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.