Dr. Chara-Serna's research is focused on assessing the impacts of human activities on freshwater biodiversity, particularly benthic invertebrates, and ecosystem functioning.

"James' research contributes to the Road Salt and Salmon project by focusing on the impact of road salt on the food supplies of stream invertebrate populations, which in turn impacts the food supply of juvenile salmonids in our affected streams. By furthering our understanding of how road salt directly and indirectly affects the food chain this research will allow us to better support the success of freshwater ecosystems and our salmon populations."

"My focus with the Road Salt and Salmon project lies in studying the intricate dynamics between stream invertebrate populations and their influence on the survival and development of juvenile salmonids"

“As part of the Road Salt and Salmon project, my research investigated the impacts of road salt contamination on select salmon-bearing streams in Metro Vancouver. I quantified road salt contamination, particularly acute salt pulses, with an aim to understand and mitigate their effects on our local salmon populations. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to contribute to such critical work and look forward to the ongoing collaborative efforts of this research initiative.”