Queen's Univeristy

Homepage: https://smithengineering.queensu.ca/civil/index.html

Climate and Wildfire Impacts on Water Quality in the Northwest Territories, Canada

Queen’s University is seeking a motivated graduate student to contribute to cutting-edge research in understanding how lakes are changing in the Canadian arctic. Join Dr. Élise Devoie and collaborator Dr. Laura Lapham, at the University of Maryland Center for Environemtal Science, to explore the fascinating world of lake and groundwater quality in cold environments.

Overview:

• Objective: Collect field data on lake hydrology, groundwater and surface water quality in Northwest Territory Lakes. Use novel continuously sampling OsmoSamplers to generate timeseries of water quality data and decipher dominant biogeochemical processes.
• Approach: Collaborating with local Indigenous communities, Environment and Climate Change Canada, and Northwest Territories Geological Survey, we will quantify and model the impact of permafrost, wildfire, and climate change on the hydrology of a small lake catchment.

Role Details:

Looking for a graduate student with an excited, curious, and creative mindset, interested in cold regions hydrologic processes.

• University: Queen’s University, Kingston, ON, Canada
• Start Date: 1 May or 1 Sept. 2026 (or alternative date)
• Positions: MSc or PhD position in Civil Engineering (Environmental)
• Requirement: Undergraduate or Masters level graduate degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Environmental Sciences, Geography, or related fields
• Student stipend: minimum $30,000 CAD per year

Project Objectives:

1. Data Acquisition:
   • Collect data in northern lakes as part of a research team during a summer field campaign.
   • Analyze water samples collected continuously.
   • Interpret water quality results and infer biogeochemistry of aquatic system.
2. Climate Change and Wildfire Prediction:
   • Use modeling software to explore how climate change and wildfires are impacting surface water hydrology.
   • Investigate biogeochemical response to varying climate and wildfire scenarios.

Desirable Skills:

1. Environmental Field Methods:
   • Experience with surface water and groundwater monitoring, including water quality sampling.
   • Willingness to conduct field work in remote locations for extended periods.
   • Northern field experience is considered an asset.
2. Laboratory Experience:
   • Experience in wet lab settings.
   • Attention to detail, fine motor skills, and excellent organizational skills an asset.
3. Data Visualization:
   • Skill in presenting research findings through effective visualizations.
4. Climate Science Knowledge:
   • Understanding of climate change impacts on ice and aquatic ecosystems.
   • Awareness of relevant literature and research.
5. Collaboration and Communication:
   • Willingness to work in a collaborative team environment.
   • Proficient English communication skills for presenting results and collaborating with stakeholders.

Inclusivity Statement:

We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds, including Black, racialized/visible minority, Indigenous/Aboriginal people, women, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQ+ individuals.

Interested applicants should email elise.devoie@queensu.ca with the following:

• Subject Line: “Lapham-Devoie Application”
• Attachments:
  • CV
  • A brief statement of interest – no longer than 100 words, feel free to include in the body of the email.
  • Unofficial Transcripts
  • Contact information for two references

Review of application will begin December 1st. Successful candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Join us in advancing our understanding of cold environments!