A fully funded 4-year PhD position is open at the Catchment and Wetland Sciences (CAWS) Research Group (www.caws.ualberta.ca), in the Department of Renewable Resources at University of Alberta, under the supervision of Dr. David Olefeldt. Start of program is January 2023, or May 2023. We are looking for a talented student with interests in ecosystem greenhouse gas balance, soil biogeochemistry, peatland ecology, and Canada’s northern permafrost region. The project will focus on the use of eddy co-variance techniques to assess the greenhouse gas and energy balance of northern permafrost peatlands affected by wildfire. Field research will be conducted in northernmost Alberta at sites with established infrastructure, supported by the Woodwell Climate Research Center through the Permafrost Pathways project. The project will also be part of a Canada-wide network for understanding the future carbon balance of peatlands. There is flexibility, and it is encouraged, for the student to focus on specific aspects of interest under the overarching theme.
Applicants are expected to hold, or soon complete, an MSc degree (or equivalent) in atmospheric sciences, physical geography, soil science, environmental science or similar fields. Previous experience with eddy co-variance instrumentation and data handling is highly favourable. Proficiency in spoken and written English is needed. The CAWS Research Group is committed to the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome people of any ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or ability to contact us about the position.
Full funding for the PhD student is available through Graduate Research Assistant Fellowships valued at CAD$26,000 per year over 4 years. Additional funding (~CAD$3,000 per year) is available for international students to cover added university tuition. Funding is also available to cover costs for skills workshops, national and international scientific conferences, and field gear. Additional stipends and scholarships are available to apply for from both institutional and national sources, including recruitment awards for students with high GPAs.
For further information and to apply, please send a letter of interest to [email protected]. Include resume/CV describing your skills and education, university transcripts and names of two referees. Position will be open until a suitable candidate has been hired.