PhD opportunity – Modelling and predicting droughts in a changing Earth
University of Saskatchewan
Natural Hazards (NH)
The Hydroclimate Extremes and Water Security Lab in the Department of Civil, Geological, and Environmental Engineering at the University of Saskatchewan invites applications for a fully funded PhD position. Start dates are flexible: Winter (January), Spring (May) or Fall (September) 2026.
About the Position:
The selected applicant will conduct high-quality research on improving long-term drought prediction through advanced probabilistic and statistical modelling under uncertainty. This research will combine climate and hydrological model simulations, next-generation statistical and probabilistic approaches, and impact-based predictions. The PhD student will be supervised by Prof. Cuauhtémoc T. Vidrio-Sahagún.
Required qualifications:
- Bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil, environmental, or water resources engineering (or a closely related field).
- Strong academic performance (Master’s GPA ≥ 80%).
- English proficiency (if applicable).
- Background in probabilistic/statistical modelling of hydroclimate extremes.
- Proficiency in programming (such as MATLAB, Python, or R).
- Strong written communication skills and research ability.
Familiarity with drought analysis, modelling, prediction, or climate change impact assessment is an asset.
How to Apply:
Please send a single PDF with the subject ‘PhD drought position’ to Dr. Cuauhtémoc T. Vidrio-Sahagún at ct.vidrio-sahagun@usask.ca. Your application must include:
1. A one-page cover letter describing your interest in this position: your research interests, experience, motivation, availability dates, and career goals
2. Curriculum vitae (including academic achievements, scholarships, or awards)
3. Unofficial transcripts and copies of degrees (Bachelor’s and Master’s)
4. Names and contact information for two referees
5. A writing sample where you are the first author (journal paper, report, thesis, etc.)
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.