Senior Research Manager

Jean Roach brings more than 40 years of forestry research expertise to her role as Senior Research Manager of the Mother Tree Project. Since 2016, she has been instrumental in selecting research sites and spearheading the planning and execution of treatments and research activities.

In her current role, Jean drives strategic initiatives, aligning research with First Nations, government, and industry partners while ensuring Indigenous ecological knowledge is always central. She oversees large-scale forest experiments designed for exploring regenerative forestry techniques across climate gradients. Her extensive responsibilities encompass developing research strategies, managing budgets and teams, securing grants, producing scientific papers, and more. Dedicated to mentoring Mother Tree research field crews, she provides year-round essential technical expertise while prioritizing their safety and professional growth. Through innovative approaches to forest regeneration and restoration, Jean’s work helps shape forestry practices with significant provincial, national, and even global impact.

Jean’s forestry journey began with summers at her family’s cabin on Vancouver Island, where early camping and hiking trips inspired a lifelong connection to nature. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Forestry at UBC and later became a Registered Professional Forester. Her early career included forestry roles with industry and the provincial government, including an ecology research position where she met Dr. Suzanne Simard, which ignited an illustrious 40-year collaboration.

Known for her leadership, mentorship, and practical approach, Jean enjoys passing down her extensive experience to Mother Tree crew members, inspiring the next generation of foresters dedicated to improving forest management in BC.