Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique

Homepage: https://inrs.ca/en/studies/future-students/

Project description
Saltmarshes experience regularly erosive forces, especially waves, resulting in the loss of sediment from the surface and/or edge. In terrestrial settings, vegetation – especially the below-ground biomass – has been shown to be crucial in reducing soil erosion rates, however much less is known about the importance of roots on saltmarsh stability. The erosion reducing effect has been, in part, attributed to the ability of fine roots to aid in the formation of soil aggregates. Fungal hyphae has also been implied.

We are therefore looking for a student with an excellent academic record to study the importance of fine roots and fungal hyphae in aggregate stability of saltmarsh soils, which could be explored at different scales ranging from the aggregate, to soil cores in wave flumes of various sizes, and in-situ in the field.

Start date
Fall 2024, latest January 2025

Research supervision
Supervisor: Anne Ola
Co-supervisor: Jacob Stolle

Study program
PhD in Earth Sciences or
PhD in Water Sciences

Funding
4-year scholarship of $25,000/year, with possibility to apply for top-up scholarships.

Required qualifications
By the time of appointment, candidates should have obtained an MSc degree in Soil Science, Plant Science or Marine Biology, Environmental Sciences, or related fields with relevant expertise.

Location
Institut national de la recherche scientifique
Eau Terre Environnement Research Centre
490 de la Couronne Street
Quebec City, Quebec G1K 9A9
Canada

Please submit your application here