Polar Medal Citation (2026)
Dr. P. Whitney Lackenbauer is a leading scholar on Arctic security and a professor at Trent University. His research focuses on historical and socio-political contexts of Arctic governance, the relationships between northern peoples, their environment and federal policy. Serving as the honorary lieutenant-colonel of the 1st Canadian Ranger Patrol Group for over a decade, he has remained committed to security, sovereignty and stronger military-community relations in the Arctic. His contributions have helped to narrow the gap between academia, community and policy.
Read Trent University’s News Story here
Read Governor General Mary Simon’s comments here
Trent Distinguished Research Award (2026)
The Distinguished Research Award is the highest honour conferred by Trent University for research and scholarly activity.
The 2026 Distinguished Research Award honours Dr. P. Whitney Lackenbauer, Canada Research Chair in the Study of the Canadian North and a professor in the School for the Study of Canada. He is internationally recognized as one of Canada’s leading experts on Arctic and Northern security, governance, and policy. His research has shaped national and global conversations on climate change, emerging security challenges, and northern sovereignty, while advancing Indigenous‑centered, community‑engaged approaches.
Since joining Trent University in 2018, he has produced an exceptional body of scholarship that continues to inform government decision‑making. Dr. Lackenbauer founded the North American and Arctic Defence and Security Network (NAADSN) in 2019, now a major policy research hub with significant external funding. A prolific and award‑winning author, he is also a former Killam Fellow, Fulbright Scholar, and Distinguished Visiting Professor at the Canadian Forces College, which underscore his outstanding impact and influence.