Current Research Opportunities - Environmental & Life Sciences

Scroll through the Research Opportunities below to see the exciting positions that are available to incoming students in the Environmental & Life Sciences Graduate Program! You are encouraged to contact the faculty member directly. If you have any questions, please contact Linda Cardwell, Program Coordinator at lcardwell@trentu.ca or enlsgrad@trentu.ca

M.Sc. and Ph.D. positions in Environmental Sciences of Rare Earth Elements as Critical MineralsSupervisor: Dr. Huy Dang, Trent School of the Environment and Trent Environmental & Life Sciences Graduate Program

Trent University, INRS (Institut National de la Rercherche Scientifique), and Laval University invite applications for fifteen graduate positions in environmental sciences of rare earth elements as critical minerals. This multidisciplinary project aims to assess the mechanisms by which rare earth elements (REEs), as priority critical minerals, affect Canadian terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. The generated knowledge will allow the development of novel and responsible REE-based applications for sustainable growth of the biotechnology and agroforestry sectors. We aim to expand the potential end use of the research by facilitating the interactions between academic, private and government partners; each partner provides essential fundamental, technical and applied knowledge. Students applying for positions at Trent will be enrolled in the Environmental & Life Sciences Graduate Program at Trent University. How to apply: https://www.trentu.ca/els/how-apply.

POSITIONS	INSTITUTIONS	TOPICS
M.Sc. 1	Trent University	Environmental biogeochemistry, food web
M.Sc. 2	INRS	Biomonitoring
M.Sc. 3	Laval University	Speciation and geochemical modeling
M.Sc. 4	INRS	Ecotoxicity
M.Sc. 5	Trent University	Ecotoxicity
M.Sc. 6	Trent University	Algal biotechnology
M.Sc. 7	Trent University	Phytoremediation
M.Sc. 8	Trent University	Crop physiology and sustainable agriculture
M.Sc. 9	Trent University	Environmental risks assessment
M.Sc. 10	Trent University	Crop supplements and fertilizers
Ph.D. 1	Trent University	Environmental biogeochemistry, food web
Ph.D. 2	Trent University	Environmental geochemistry, contamination
Ph.D. 3	Trent University	Soil microbiology and health
Ph.D. 4	Trent University	Forest management

Tasks: The successful candidates will take an active role in planning and executing the research ideas, field and laboratory work in different graduate programs at Trent, INRS and Laval Universities.

Requirements: The positions are ideally suited for scholars (BSc, MSc holders) in environmental sciences, with a solid knowledge of ecotoxicology, biogeochemistry, microbiology, plant sciences, forestry or environmental modeling. We particularly seek a robust technical proficiency in advanced chemical/molecular analyses.

We offer: Fully funded scholarships, innovative & applied research topics, and well-equipped laboratories in environmental sciences, ecotoxicology & molecular (micro)biology.

How to apply: The application package should include (i) a cover letter outlining how the candidate fulfills the requirements, (ii) a full CV, (iii) academic transcripts and (iv) a list of contacts of three referees. The email subject should include the position of interest.

Applications should be sent as a single PDF to Dr. Huy Dang, Assistant Professor at Trent University: huydang@trentu.ca.

Commitment to diversity: The diversity of our community is at the core of innovation and creativity and strengthens our research excellence. Our groups strive to embody the values of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. Thus, we are committed to recruiting and fostering a diverse and inclusive community of outstanding scholars.

M.Sc. in Environmental and Life Sciences - Nutrients and ecosystem health

Supervisor: Dr. Shaun Watmough, Trent School of the Environment

Decades of acid rain and timber harvesting have depleted soil nutrient levels and lake chemistry is changing alarmingly. Understanding the key processes involved and mitigation options including the application of wood ash are the focus of this research project.

I am seeking two enthusiastic, motivated students with a background in biogeochemistry and/or plant ecology to investigate the biogeochemistry of essential plant nutrients and/or the impact of wood ash application on forest and aquatic ecosystems. The position will remain open until a suitable candidate is selected.

The students would enroll in the Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate Program (ENLS) (https://www.trentu.ca/els/msc.php) at Trent University and will be supervised by Prof. Shaun Watmough. The students must meet the academic requirements for entrance to the ENLS Program (77% average), have a valid driver’s license and be comfortable working in the field and in a laboratory. The students would collaborate with numerous agencies and stakeholders including the Canadian Forest Service, ASH-NET study (https://cfs.nrcan.gc.ca/projects/140), Friends of Muskoka Watershed and Haliburton Forest and Wildlife Reserve. The students will join an active research lab, attend and present at conferences and make connections that may provide future exciting opportunities. Interested students should contact Dr. Shaun Watmough (swatmough@trentu.ca).

M.Sc. Graduate Student Positions – Lake Sturgeon (four positions posted below)

Lake Sturgeon are listed as endangered or threatened across much of their range and have historically been impacted by overfishing and habitat degradation. Restoration efforts and fishery closures in the Great Lakes are showing hopeful signs for sturgeon recovery, but information on population structure and local population sizes is limited.

Qualifications and Eligibility: Successful candidates must have a B.Sc. in Biology or a related discipline. The ideal candidate will have an interest in conservation biology, experience conducting independent research, have strong written and oral communication skills, and experience using R to analyse data. Prior experience with genetic or fisheries data, advanced statistical analyses and an interest in Bayesian analysis would be ideal but not essential. The candidate must meet the requirements for admission to The Environmental & Life Sciences Graduate Program at Trent University.

Stipend: Students will receive a stipend, which may include teaching assistantships. The stipend can be increased if the candidate is successful at securing external scholarships.

To Apply: Send the following documents to the prospective supervisor(s):

A statement outlining research interests and career goals,
C.V. and unofficial university transcript,
Contact information for two references

M.Sc. Graduate Student Position #1 – Conservation Genetics of Lake Sturgeon

Supervisors: Dr. Chris Wilson (Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources), Dr. Tim Haxton (Trent University) and Dr. Tom Whillans (Trent University)

A M.Sc. position is available in Trent University’s Environmental and Life Sciences graduate program to investigate the conservation genetics and demographic structure of lake sturgeon in Ontario’s Great Lakes. The student will build on genetic and gender data to investigate the effectiveness of genetic close-kin mark-recapture methods to estimate population size, as well as track movements and connectivity among local populations.

See Full Ad

Stipend: $25,000/year for two years, including teaching assistantships. The stipend can be increased if the candidate is successful at securing external scholarships.

To Apply: Please contact Dr. Chris Wilson (chris.wilson@ontario.ca) and Dr. Tim Haxton (timothyhaxton@trentu.ca), Dr. Tom Whillans (twhillans@trentu.ca)

M.Sc. Graduate Student Position #2 – Baseline water quality and contaminants in fishes of the Severn River.

Supervisors: Dr. Mary-Claire Buell (Trent University) and Dr. Chris Furgal (Trent University)

A M.Sc. position is available in Trent University’s Environmental and Life Sciences graduate program (www.trentu.ca/els/) to investigate the water quality and contaminants in fish in the Severn River of northern Ontario. This is part of a larger study of the habitat and status of lake sturgeon in that river. The study is a collaborative research project with First Nations and the Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre (www.aofrc.org). In addition to investigating the suitability of water quality for sturgeon and levels of contaminants in the species, the study will document the baseline conditions in the relatively undisturbed river system, prior to any future development. The rich mineral resources in the region may attract mine development.

See Full Ad

Stipend: $30,000/year for two years. The stipend can be increased if the candidate is successful at securing external scholarships.

To Apply: Please contact Dr. Mary-Claire Buell (maryclairebuell@trentu.ca) and Dr. Chris Furgal (chrisfurgal@trentu.ca)

M.Sc. Graduate Student Position #3 – Population Dynamics of Lake Sturgeon

Supervisors: Dr. Tim Haxton, Trent University and Dr. Tom Whillans, Trent University

A M.Sc. position is available in Trent University’s Environmental and Life Sciences graduate program (www.trentu.ca/els/) to investigate the population dynamics of lake sturgeon in northern Ontario. As part of a collaborative research project with First Nations and the Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre (www.aofrc.org) the student will investigate the population dynamics and structure in support of their sustainable management, which will also provide valuable baseline data from some of the last pristine habitat for this species.

See Full Ad

Stipend: $30,000/year for two years. The stipend can be increased if the candidate is successful at securing external scholarships.

To Apply: Please contact Dr. Tim Haxton (timothyhaxton@trentu.ca) and Dr. Tom Whillans (twhillans@trentu.ca)

M.Sc. Graduate Student Position #4 – Conservation Genetics of Lake Sturgeon

Supervisors: Dr. Chris Wilson (Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources) and Dr. Tom Whillans (Trent University)

A M.Sc. position is available in Trent University’s Environmental & Life Sciences Graduate Program (www.trentu.ca/els) to investigate the conservation genetics and demographic structure of lake sturgeon in northern Ontario. As part of a collaborative research project with First Nations and the Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre (www.aofrc.org), the student will investigate the genetic structure and diversity in support of their sustainable management, which will also provide valuable baseline data from some of the last pristine habitat for this species. The student will build on genetic and gender data to investigate the effectiveness of genetic close-kin mark-recapture methods to estimate population size, as well as track movements and connectivity among local populations.

See Full Ad

Stipend: $30,000/year for two years. The stipend can be increased if the candidate is successful at securing external scholarships.

To Apply: Please contact Dr. Chris Wilson (chris.wilson@ontario.ca) and Dr. Tom Whillans (twhillans@trentu.ca)

M.Sc. and Ph.D. positions - Geochemical carbon dioxide removal for climate change mitigation

Supervisor: Dr. Ian Power, Trent School of the Environment

Applications are invited for M.Sc. and Ph.D. positions with Prof. Ian Power (Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in Environmental Geoscience) in the Environmental & Life Sciences Graduate Program at Trent University to research geochemical carbon dioxide removal.

In Canada, combustion sources at mines account for ~6 Mt CO2/yr, agriculture contributes ~67 Mt CO2/yr, and forests are net carbon sources. In addition to reducing these and other greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, carbon dioxide (CO2) removal from the atmosphere is necessary to abate hard to reduce emissions and mitigate climate change. Geochemical processes that sequester CO2, including weathering and mineralization, can be accelerated in mining environments using mine wastes, agricultural fields and forests using mineral amendments, and engineered systems using reactive mineral oxides. While these approaches offer enormous capacities to capture and securely store CO2, there are uncertainties relating to the rates of CO2 removal that can be achieved, verification and quantification of carbon storage, co-benefits (e.g., improved plant growth), and environmental concerns (e.g., metal release).

Graduate student research will aim to address these knowledge gaps by discovering and developing geochemical CO2 removal processes while aiding industries in deploying these negative emissions technologies. Research topics will be developed with the student in one of three themes: (1) CO2 mineralization within mine wastes, (2) enhanced rock weathering, and (3) mineral oxide looping. Students will advance novel processes for CO2 removal to facilitate society’s transition to a net-zero carbon economy.

Projects have full financial support. Visit PowerGeolab.com for more information about our team, research, publications, and facilities.

Prospective students should be motivated, preferably holding a degree in either Earth sciences, geology, geoscience, environmental science, chemistry, or closely related fields. The ideal candidate will have a strong academic standing, field and laboratory skills, excellent communication skills, strong work ethic, and a passion for science! Research experience at any level is highly advantageous. Please email Dr. Ian Power (ianpower@trentu.ca) about your research interests. Our lab is committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workforce and welcomes all applications from qualified persons who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and experiences.

M.Sc./Ph.D. in Environmental and Life Sciences - environmental chemistry and soil sciences

Supervisor: Dr. Huy Dang, Trent School of the Environment

The ENvironmental and Isotope Geochemistry & Mass spectrometry Applications (EnIGMA) and Agricultural Soil Health (ASH) lab at the School of the Environment, Trent University, invite applications for a M.Sc./Ph.D. position in environmental geochemistry and soil sciences, starting in 2024 (Summer or Fall).

Project summary: This industry-driven project aims to develop and test nature-based alternatives to conventional N fertilizers as on-farm solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This interdisciplinary research will combine biogeochemistry of nutrients, soil health assessment, and microbial ecology through multi-scalar field and laboratory experiments.

Tasks: The graduate student will take an active role in planning and executing the research ideas, field and laboratory work, reporting and publishing, and communicating with industrial partners.

Requirements: This position is ideally suited for a B.Sc. or M.Sc. holder in environmental geochemistry of nutrients with a solid knowledge of agricultural and soil sciences. The student will be independent, self-driven, creative, fluent in English, and hold a valid driver’s license.

We offer:

Full financial support.

Innovative & applied research topic, and well-equipped laboratories in environmental sciences (e.g., mass spectrometry, XRF, SEM-EDX) & molecular microbiology (e.g., qPCR, sequencing).

Trent University is located in Peterborough, Ontario - 90 minutes from downtown Toronto - and offers a breathtaking campus with a spectacular natural and architecturally inspiring backdrop.

How to apply: Students will be enrolled in the Environmental & Life Sciences Graduate Program at Trent University. How to apply: https://www.trentu.ca/els/how-apply.

The interested candidates can contact Dr. Huy Dang (huydang@trentu.ca) with an application package including (i) a cover letter outlining how the candidate fulfills the requirements, (ii) a CV, (iii) academic transcript (iv) a list of contacts for three referees.

Commitment to diversity: The diversity of our community is at the core of innovation and creativity and strengthens our research excellence. Our groups strive to embody the values of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. Thus, we are committed to recruiting and fostering a diverse and inclusive community of outstanding scholars.

M.Sc. or Ph.D. graduate opportunity - position in Forest Hydrology

Supervisors: Dr. Magali Nehemy, Trent School of the Environment, Dr. Jason Leach, Canadian Forest Service

Are you interested in understanding the interaction between forest and water? Join our team and collaborate between the Hillslope Ecohydrology Research Lab (Trent University) and the Canadian Forest Service.

The Position: The student will focus on monitoring ecohydrological fluxes and storage at the Turkey Lakes Watershed to Advance understanding of the connectivity between transpiration source water and streamflow across different hillslopes. There is potential to expand to other aspects of hillslope hydrology and watershed science, including tracer modeling. There is support for international travel to attend conferences. See full ad.

Interested? Apply by emailing us at mnehemy@trentu.ca and jason.leach@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca. Put attachments in one pdf.

Cover Letter
Curriculum Vitae
Unofficial transcripts
Names and contact of two references

M.Sc. and Ph.D. graduate positions available in a multidisciplinary research group working on measurement and data interpretation challenges in the forensic sciences.

Supervisor: Dr. Arun Moorthy, Forensic Sciences

Forensic scientists are regularly asked to make difficult decisions using limited information. Our research group is interested in developing computational models, algorithms and software tools that help forensic scientists better understand their data and make informed decisions. We are a multidisciplinary group that equally values creativity and rigor in our research, and we simultaneously pursue scientific insights while producing relevant and usable software tools. Our research areas include but are not limited to: mass spectral interpretation, mathematical modelling, data analysis, and scientific software development.

Students will be enrolled in the Environmental & Life Sciences Graduate Program at Trent University. Graduate positions start in January, May and September of 2024-25. This ad will remain posted until all positions are filled.

For more information about our research group, please visit www.arunmoorthy.ca and contact Dr. Arun Moorthy, Assistant Professor, Department of Forensic Sciences at arunmoorthy@trentu.ca

Ph.D. Graduate Student Opportunity in Community Based Contaminants Research

Supervisor: Dr. Mary-Claire Buell, Trent School of the Environment

Trent University's Environmental Forensics Lab is seeking a Ph.D. student for a project focused on empowering communities to become active participants in a cross-country snapshot of polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination in fish. Students with an interest in environmental chemistry, toxicology, and/or participatory action research should get in touch! This position is available through the Environmental & Life Sciences Graduate Program at Trent University. Contact Dr. Mary-Claire Buell at maryclairebuell@trentu.ca .

Funded Positions in Global Change Ecology

Supervisors: Dr. Andrew Tanentzap and Dr. Erik Emilson

The Ecosystems and Global Change Group (www.ecosystemchange.com) at Trent University jointly led by Prof Andrew Tanentzap (Canada Research Chair in Climate Change and Northern Ecosystems) and Dr Erik Emilson (Research Scientist, Canadian Forest Service sector of Natural Resources Canada, (https://glfc-wet.github.io) is recruiting MSc/PhD students at the intersect of ecosystem ecology, microbiology, and geochemistry in northern waters and soils.

What we can offer: Our research training environment features some of the most advanced environmental research infrastructure in Canada, including use of a Fourier transform – ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer, long-read (Oxford Nanopore) sequencing facility, radioisotope and stable isotope labs, and eddy covariance systems, with extensive support for field research (ATVs, snowmobiles, autonomous surface vessel). As our team partners with government scientists, you will have a unique opportunity to influence environmental policy and make connections outside of academic to bolster your career. All postgraduate candidates are paid a stipend. Our group also supports flexible working arrangements and supports applicants from diverse backgrounds as we strive to build a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplace. Students will be enrolled in the Environmental & Life Sciences Graduate Program at Trent University.

Projects available:

MSc or PhD – Tracing pathogens released into a warming Arctic. Working with Indigenous and Health Canada partners, this project will use eDNA approaches to identify novel microbial pathogens released from thawing permafrost and track their movement in the Canadian Arctic.
PhD – The ecological role of chemical diversity under a warming climate. This project will test how ecosystem function varies with the composition of organic matter in freshwaters and soils across a space-for-time gradient of future climate change.
PhD – The global pulse of dissolved organic matter. This project will leverage existing FT-ICR MS datasets, including monthly measurements from 70 sites worldwide, to analyse seasonality in dissolved organic matter of lakes and identify drivers of their thermal responses.
MSc/PhD – Your own project! We are interested in working with applicants motivated to develop their own research project in the areas described above and on our websites. Reach out with your ideas!

How to apply: Please email Andrew Tanentzap (atanentzap@trentu.ca) with a CV and a description of what you hope to get out of working with us, how your research interests are a good fit to our group, and how your past experiences make you suitable for the independent and often challenging nature of research. Positions will remain open until they are filled.

PhD Graduate Student Position – Impacts of foraging by hyperabundant Arctic-nesting geese on vegetation of Arctic and subarctic coastal lowlands

Supervisors: Dr. Glen Brown & Dr. Peter Kotanen

Herbivores strongly influence plant communities. Changes in abundance of herbivores can cause rapid changes in plant biomass, species composition and ecosystem processes. The mid-continent population of lesser snow geese expanded dramatically in North America during the past 50 years. The increased abundance of geese in combination with their destructive feeding habits has caused the degradation of large tracts of coastal wetlands on their arctic and subarctic breeding range. Long term studies by the Hudson Bay Project (http://research.amnh.org/users/rfr/hbp/) have demonstrated processes of habitat degradation and rapid ecological change that adversely impacts species sharing the coastal habitat.

We seek a PhD student to investigate the drivers of recovery or continued degradation of breeding range habitat, and the outcomes to ecosystems. The student will make use of existing historical ground collected data (e.g. plant biomass), remote sensing, and new field studies to address their questions. The student will have the opportunity to directly support wildlife conservation and management and gain experience on a collaborative project with government agencies and partners (Mississippi Flyway Council, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry). Field work will be based at one or more sites near Churchill, Manitoba (Cape Churchill and La Perouse Bay), Akimiski Island, and the Burntpoint Research Station in Polar Bear Provincial Park, Ontario.

The student will be enrolled in the Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate Program, Trent University, and under the supervision of Dr. Glen Brown, (Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry at Trent University) and Dr. Peter Kotanen (University of Toronto). Start dates are flexible, January, May or September each year. Posting will remain open until all positions are filled.

Salary: A stipend consistent with Trent University policies for PhD will be provided (includes a Teaching Assistantship).

Qualifications: Candidates should have an interest in plant-animal interactions and a solid background in ecology and remote sensing, and an aptitude for statistical and spatial analysis (including geographic information systems and imagery processing), as well as the ability to conduct laborious field work in remote areas for extended periods of time. A willingness to become licensed in firearm use is also required due to the presence of polar bears. Prospective students should send a letter of interest, a CV, unofficial transcripts, and the names of two references to Dr. Glen Brown (glen.brown@ontario.ca) and Dr. Peter Kotanen (peter.kotanen@utoronto.ca).

The Northern Animal Ecology Lab @ Trent (https://brownecologylab.weebly.com/) investigates the mechanisms driving change in the subarctic, involving interactions among climate, habitat, and wildlife communities. Wildlife adapted to the cold northern climate may be particularly vulnerable at the edge of range near the arctic-boreal ecotone. We study a range of species, including shorebirds, waterfowl, predators (eg. arctic fox), and small mammals. Students will gain experience in field-based research, use of diverse technologies, including remote sensing and drones, and quantitative methods.

M.Sc. & Ph.D. Graduate Positions – Climate change, wildlife, and their habitat near the arctic-boreal ecotone

Supervisor: Dr. Glen Brown, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry and Canadian Centre for Remote Sensing

Our lab (https://brownecologylab.weebly.com/) investigates the mechanisms driving change in the subarctic, involving interactions among climate, habitat, and wildlife communities. Wildlife adapted to the cold northern climate may be particularly vulnerable at the edge of range near the arctic-boreal ecotone. We study a range of species, including shorebirds, waterfowl, predators (eg. arctic fox), and small mammals. Students will gain experience in field-based research, use of diverse technologies, including remote sensing and drones, and quantitative methods.

Available projects include:

food web interactions involving terrestrial vertebrates and how wildlife habitat is affected by changes in permafrost.
water bird behavior and breeding success in relation to climate, habitat and predation risk. E.g. dunlin, whimbrel, Hudsonian Godwit, and Canada geese.
arctic fox ecology and competition with red fox
density dependent habitat selection in a changing environment

Students will have the opportunity to directly support wildlife conservation and management and gain experience on a collaborative project with a government agency (Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry) and partners (York University, Canadian Centre for Remote Sensing). Field work will be based at the Burntpoint Research Station in Polar Bear Provincial Park, Ontario.

Graduate Program Start dates: Students will be enrolled in the Environmental & Life Sciences Graduate Program at Trent University which takes in new students in January, May and September each year. This posting will remain open until all positions are filled.

Salary: A minimum stipend consistent with Trent University policies for PhD and MSc will be provided (includes a Teaching Assistantship).

Qualifications: Candidates should have a solid background in ecology and an aptitude for statistical and spatial analysis (including geographic information systems and imagery processing), as well as the ability to conduct laborious field work in remote areas for extended periods of time. A willingness to become licensed in firearm use is also required due to the presence of polar bears.

Prospective students should send a letter of interest, a CV, unofficial transcripts, and the names of two references to Dr. Glen Brown (glen.brown@ontario.ca).

Available graduate positions in the Integrative Wildlife Conservation lab at Trent University

Supervisor: Dr. Dennis Murray www.dennismurray.ca dennismurray@trentu.ca

The IWC lab conducts cutting-edge research on the conservation biology and population ecology of plant and animals, in an effort to address some of the major environmental challenges facing the world today. The lab uses state-of-the-art instruments like GPS transmitters and accelerometers to track animal states and interactions, drones and remote sensors to monitor forest health and the effects of climate change, and genomics and bioinformatics to assess cellular-level responses to stressors like disease or predation risk. We work on species ranging from Canada lynx to soil microbes and in environments as variable as the boreal forest of the Yukon to the desert of Namibia.

Graduate positions will be based at Trent University in Peterborough, Ontario as part of the Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate Program (http://www.trentu.ca/els/)

Projects available for 2023-24

PhD – Spatial and behavioural dynamics of Canada lynx in response to the 10-year snowshoe hare cycle
PhD – Population ecology of snowshoe hares in response to climate change
PhD – Climate change impacts on boreal forest health and productivity
Ph.D. – Population status and conservation biology of softshell turtles (pending funding)
Ph.D. – Behavioural, physiological and genomic responses of amphibians to stressors like predators and pathogens
M.Sc. - Genome assembly and phylogeny for conservation of at-risk Lithops spp. plants
Ph.D. - Conservation biology and viability of isolated Lithops populations

*Note that some projects listed at the PhD level (preferred) could be sub-divided into components that are suitable for an M.Sc. thesis

M.Sc. Opportunities for research in Microplastics, Biomonitoring, and Air Pollution impacts

Supervisor, Dr. Julian Aherne, Trent School of the Environment

Are you a recent graduate, interested in an M.Sc. in research, and concerned about microplastic and air pollution?

We have a number of exciting opportunities focused on assessing the abundance and distribution of microplastics in Canadian ecosystems. In addition, we have a number of opportunities focused on the impacts of air pollution on natural ecosystems in Ontario, northern and western Canada, and internationally. Projects cover a wide range of research topics, such as microplastics, biomonitoring, and pollution impacts in the arctic and downwind from a large-point emissions source. Project start dates range from May to January. The successful candidate will be registered in the Environmental & Life Sciences Graduate Program www.trentu.ca/els at Trent University. Posting will remain open until all positions are filled.

For further details contact: jaherne@trentu.ca

Dr. Julian Aherne, Trent School of the Environment

Ph.D. Positions - Ecology of Lake and River Ecosystems

Supervisor: Dr. Maggie Xenopoulos

Graduate Ph.D. positions are available to contribute to on-going ecological research on rivers in the Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology at Trent University in Peterborough, Ontario and as part of a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Global Change of Aquatic Ecosystems. Research for these positions could range from food web responses to environmental stress to landscape studies of carbon and nutrients. Field work for these positions could include the Great Lakes basin and central Ontario in cottage country. The graduate positions are funded at the Ph.D. level but exceptional M.Sc. candidates who are interested in transferring to a Ph.D. will be considered. Students will be enrolled in the Environmental & Life Sciences Graduate Program at Trent University which takes in new students in January, May and September each year. This posting will remain open until all positions are filled. Interested students should contact Dr. Maggie Xenopoulos (mxenopoulos@trentu.ca) with a brief statement of interests, transcripts and a recently updated resume. Information of lab projects can be found at: www.xenopoulos.ca .

Ph.D. Graduate student opportunities in avian ecological physiology

Supervisor: Dr. Gary Burness

About the projects: We are seeking 1-2 Ph.D. students interested in avian thermal physiology. Areas of research include: the impact of temperature during development on adult physiology, climatic warming as a constraint on activity in wild birds, and the use of automated radio-telemetry to understand fine-scale movements. Specific thesis topics are flexible, and you are encouraged to contribute your ideas.

Requirements: You should have an interest in animal physiology/physiological ecology. Experience and/or interest in use of R would be an asset (although not required). Ph.D. applicants will require a completed M.Sc. or equivalent, by the start date. Positions are open to Canadian citizens or permanent residents, but strong international candidates are encouraged to apply. We seek a diversity of ideas and perspectives in the lab, so we especially welcome applicants from under-represented groups.

Funding: The minimum stipend for a PhD student is $25,015.91 for each of 4 years. Students holding external funding are particularly encouraged to apply.

Interested in applying? Send an email, with your CV and a brief statement of research interests to: Gary Burness, garyburness@trentu.ca

Start date: September 2025 or January 2026. Applications will be considered until all positions are filled.

M.Sc., Ph.D. and postdoc positions – Cell and molecular biology

Supervisor: Dr. Robert Huber

The Huber Lab uses the social amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum as a model system for studying the functions of proteins linked to human disease. Current research is focused on revealing the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCLs), commonly known as Batten disease (the most common form of childhood neurodegeneration). For more information, please visit: http://huberlab.ca

Students and trainees will gain experience using a diversity of molecular, cellular, and biochemical approaches including cell culture, PCR, gene cloning and knockout, recombinant protein expression, enzyme assays, immunoprecipitation, SDS-PAGE and western blotting, and epifluorescence microscopy.

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter that includes a brief summary of research experience/interests/goals (no more than a page), CV, unofficial transcript(s), and the names of 2 academic references to Dr. Robert Huber (roberthuber@trentu.ca). The Huber Lab is currently funded by grants from CIHR and NSERC. Full financial support is offered for qualified candidates.

The different stages of Dictyostelum development

Graduate Student Opportunities in Electrochemistry and Biophysical Chemistry

Supervisor: Dr. Sanela Martic, Dept. of Forensic Science, Trent U

Multiple student positions (M.Sc. or Ph.D.) are available in analytical chemistry, biochemistry and surface science. Martic lab projects are focused on molecules linked to health, environment, energy, forensic science, material science, and food safety, among other topics.

The projects will use chemical and analytical tools to design and develop new technologies for understanding of molecular processes and detection of targets of interest. Techniques utilized in our research group include: spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, chromatography, electrophoresis and blotting, surface plasmon resonance, electrochemistry, quartz-crystal microbalance, among others.

The student will be enrolled in the Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate Program, Trent University, and under the supervision of Dr. Sanela Martic. Students will receive financial support. The project will begin immediately.

Candidates should have a solid background in chemistry, biochemistry or biology and an aptitude for chemical, biochemical and analytical testing. Prospective student should meet the minimum requirement for admission to the M.Sc. or Ph.D. program.

Students interested should send their letter of interest, CV (resume) and unofficial transcripts to Dr. Sanela Martic, sanelamartic@trentu.ca. The position will remain open until a suitable candidate is selected.

Please visit the Martic lab research group webpage for more information: https://sites.google.com/trentu.ca/marticlab

M.Sc. and Ph.D. Positions studying the Evolutionary Ecology of an Invasive Hybrid Zone

Supervisors: Dr. Marcel Dorken and Dr. Joanna Freeland, Dept. of Biology; Dr. Aaron Shafer, Forensic Science Program

Plants are essential components of wetland ecosystems, but remain largely understudied; as a result, we have little insight into how environmental changes (including novel invasive species) are impacting aquatic plant communities and their associated taxa. Cattails (Typha spp.) are critical to wetlands around the world, but in North America they are being replaced with cryptic, invasive interspecific hybrids. We use a combination of experimental, field, and molecular genetic work to investigate Typha hybrid zone dynamics in the Great Lakes Region, and are looking for a graduate student to continue this work. There are several potential projects that can include local adaptation, hybrid selection, and/or competition (e.g. using bioinformatics, SNPs, growth experiments, etc). Depending on the project, this can be a collaboration with Drs. Joanna Freeland, Marcel Dorken, and Aaron Shafer. Positions will remain posted until all positions are filled.

Contact joannafreeland@trentu.ca for more information.

M.Sc. and Ph.D. Positions - Molecular Parasitology/Biochemistry

Supervisor: Dr. Janet Yee

We have positions for either M.Sc. or Ph.D. candidates who are interested in the study of molecular biology, biochemistry and molecular parasitology.

SEM micrograph of a Giardia trophozoite attached to the microvilli of the intestinal tract of an infected host The research in our laboratory studies the biology of the waterborne parasite, Giardia intestinalis, by using molecular and biochemical approaches. This protist is found in freshwater lakes and streams, and it infects humans, domestic animals, and wildlife. Although giardiasis occurs worldwide, this disease is especially problematic in less-developed countries where diarrhea kills about 2.2 million people each year, with most cases involving children less than 5 years of age. Drugs currently available to treat Giardia are highly toxic especially to developing fetuses in pregnant women. The major problem in finding an effective and non-toxic drug for treatment is that Giardia and humans are both eukaryotes and thus, share many biological pathways. Consequently, any drug that would affect Giardia’s health would also affect the health of humans. One approach to developing a drug that would only affect Giardia would be to look for biological targets that are unique to this parasite. At present, we are focusing on regulators of the Giardia cell cycle, heme-binding proteins, and the identification and characterization of Giardia transcription factors. More information about our lab, projects and current students can be found on our website <http://www.jyee.ca>.

Techniques utilized in our research include: cell culturing in a biosafety cabinet, gene cloning, gel shift assays, qPCR, immunoblotting (Western blots), immunofluorescent microscopy, flow cytometry, recombinant protein purification, and UV-vis spectroscopy. Giardia undergoing binary fission

The ideal student would have completed and obtained high academic standing in the following courses: Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology (or Parasitology) and Genetics. It would be helpful if the student has some experience working in a research laboratory outside of their courses such as the completion of an undergraduate research thesis project. The student should have good analytical, numeracy and problem-solving skills. Most importantly, the student must be enthusiastic and willing to learn.

Financial support is offered for qualified applicants.

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter that includes a brief summary of your research experience/interests/goals, CV, unofficial transcripts, and names of 2 academic references to Dr. Janet Yee.

Ecology of Lake and River Ecosystems

Supervisors: Dr. Maggie Xenopoulos and Dr. Paul Frost

Graduate PhD positions are available in the Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology at Trent University in Peterborough, Ontario to conduct ecological research on lakes and rivers. Research for these positions could range from nutrient effects on animal nutrition and food webs to landscape studies of carbon and nutrients. Field work for these positions could include projects in the Great Lakes and their watersheds, central Ontario in cottage country and the Experimental Lakes Area in northwestern Ontario. These graduate positions are funded at the PhD level but we will consider exceptional M.Sc. candidates who are interested in converting to a PhD. Students will be enrolled in the Environmental & Life Sciences Graduate Program at Trent University which takes in new students in January, May and September each year. This posting will remain open until all positions are filled. .

Interested students should contact Dr. Maggie Xenopoulos and/or Dr. Paul Frost with a brief statement of interests, transcripts, and a recently updated resume.

Please visit Dr. Xenopoulos' website and Dr. Frost's website for more information.