Joel Prinos, a fourth-year Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology major at the University of Washington, is pursuing a minor in Arctic Studies while combining their interests in environmental science, public health, and Arctic issues. Their interest in the region began after researching risks to Inuit food storage infrastructure for an essay in their public health class.
Since then, Joel has become passionate about understanding how Arctic communities adapt to climate-related challenges, with a particular focus on public infrastructure, Indigenous rights, and global politics. Looking ahead, Joel said, “I aim to find ways to apply my study of molecular biology to environmental issues facing the Arctic, such as examining seasonal changes in the microbiome of permafrost and intermittently frozen soil.”
Originally from the Pacific Northwest, Joel enjoys surfing, hiking, and playing piano, and serves as conservation lead on the UW Surf Club executive board.
Joel’s story reflects the broad reach of Arctic Studies; students from diverse academic backgrounds can contribute fresh perspectives to understanding the Arctic’s environmental and cultural context.