PhD opportunity investigating the environmental microbiology and biogeochemistry of permafrost, focusing on the interactions between organic carbon and mercury transformations in warming permafrost in the Northwest Territories of the Canadian Arctic. The position will be held at the University of Guelph, in the cryomicrobiology laboratory of Dr. Jackie Goordial. The student will be co-supervised by Dr. Alexandre Poulain, at the University of Ottawa and the student will work closely with researchers at both institutes. The project will be interdisciplinary, incorporating microbial ‘omics, incubations studies examining greenhouse gas flux, and analysis of mercury transformation. There will be ample opportunities for field work in the Canadian Arctic as part of this research program. In addition to co-advisors, the student would join a vibrant, welcoming, highly interdisciplinary, and international team, including working in close collaboration with the Geological Survey of Canada.
Students interested in the position should have relevant degrees or prior experience in biogeochemistry, microbial ecology, microbiology, or cell and molecular biology. Prior experience with bioinformatics and a desire to be involved with field work would be considered an asset.
Students from historically excluded groups are STRONGLY encouraged to apply including those who identify as women, Black, Indigenous, people of colour, persons with disabilities, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people. The position is open to domestic and international students.
Students interested in these positions are welcome to apply to the email: goordial@uoguelph.ca. Please note – though the listed requirements are ideal, they are NOT must-haves. For example, if you do not have a strong bioinformatics background, but think that you would be a strong candidate, please apply anyway.
Review of applications will begin Jan 1, 2023. Interviews will be scheduled for Jan 2023.
The start date is flexible - note, the University of Guelph SES Dept. has rolling acceptances.
Applicants should include in the subject line of their email: “Applicant for permafrost mercury transformations project”. Please include:
1. A cover letter (less than one page) including a narrative of how the outlined project would contribute to your own personal goals and prior relevant experience that is not apparent from a transcript or CV.
2. A CV
3. Unofficial transcripts