Our Team
Meet the people behind IGER and learn more about the experience, interests and perspectives that shape our work and direction.
Dr Claire Wicks - Founder & Director
Claire is a postdoctoral researcher passionate about advancing research and developing practical initiatives that help individuals and communities live happier, healthier lives through regular green exercise.
Combining academic expertise with a strong commitment to making research meaningful and accessible in everyday life, Claire’s doctoral work explored how green exercise can support mental wellbeing in community populations. Claire has published several peer-reviewed papers and contributed to the evaluation of nature-based interventions at both local and national levels in the UK, helping to strengthen the evidence base for spending time and being physically active in nature as a practical approach to improving mental health and wellbeing.
Claire founded IGER to continue building this work in a Canadian context. Her goals are to generate new evidence, translate research into practice, and support grassroots and non-profit organisations to better understand and demonstrate the impact of green exercise and nature-based interventions within the communities they serve. Through this work, she aims to empower people through accessible, evidence-informed approaches to green exercise and wellbeing.
Dr Jo Barton - Director
Jo is a Reader in the School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences at the University of Essex (UK) and a leading international researcher in ‘Green Exercise’. Her foundational research explores the physical, psychological, and social benefits of exercising in nature, the role of nature‑based interventions in promoting mental and physical health, and how connection to nature influences behaviour across the life course.
Recognised as one of the pioneers of green exercise research, she has provided evidence for the synergistic health benefits of nature-based physical activity and has contributed to major publications and collaborations advancing understanding of nature–health interactions. She has also delivered numerous international keynote presentations and collaborates extensively with charities, community organisations, and public agencies to evaluate nature‑based health interventions. Passionate about integrating science with practice, Dr Barton’s research aims to influence policy, urban planning, and public health strategies that help people connect with nature and move more in their everyday lives.
Samantha Lukban - Director
Samantha is a communications professional with a multidisciplinary background in nutrition science, fitness, and health-focused industries. She holds a degree in nutrition science and has experience in personal training, providing her with a strong foundation in evidence-based approaches to physical activity, preventive health, and overall well-being. A lifelong advocate for spending time outdoors, Samantha is passionate about connecting people with nature as a key component of physical and mental health. Earlier in her career, she worked in the nutraceutical sector, gaining experience in product development and cross-functional collaboration within the health and wellness industry and Health Canada.
Samantha currently works in communications, supporting initiatives focused on community impact, equity, and sustainability, bringing expertise in public engagement and outreach. Her combined background in health science and communications equips her to help IGER translate research into practical, community-relevant strategies that encourage active, nature-based lifestyles.
As a Director at IGER, she brings her passion for health, wellness, and nature to advance the Institute’s mission of promoting the benefits of physical activity in natural environments.
Max Dolling - Director
Max brings a unique blend of public safety experience, service, and academic grounding to IGER’s Board of Directors. With an undergraduate education in psychology, he is a front line peace officer in the role of special constable. In addition to his law enforcement career, he remains a serving member of the Canadian Armed Forces Primary Reserve.
Drawing from his professional background and an extensive personal history in trekking and backcountry travel, Max is a passionate advocate for the strategic integration of green exercise. He is deeply committed to the use of outdoor physical activity and nature connection as a powerful tool to foster well-being, resilience, and mental health recovery for all, with an emphasis on helping veterans and public safety professionals. On the Board, he leverages his unique frontline perspective and operational discipline to advance the Institute’s mission and champion evidence-based, nature-centric health solutions.