[ES_JOBS_NET] graduate positions in the Global Institute for Water Security

[Helen Baulch]

1. Biological Response to Experimental Wetland Inundation
2. Winter Limnology

Graduate positions available within the Global
Institute for Water Security, at the University of Saskatchewan:  
 
PhD (or
MSc) research opportunity:
Biological response to
experimental wetland inundation
 
The
project: Many large rivers in cold
regions experience annual spring and summer floods associated with the melting
of snow and ice.  The biological implications of these floods are poorly
understood but could be responsible for maintaining ecosystem integrity and viable
fish and wildlife populations. Alterations to natural flow and flood regimes by
the construction of dams and levees and wetland drainage have placed these
habitats under threat.
 
We are seeking a qualified
and motivated student to examine the timing and magnitude of primary and
secondary production in response to inundation in a northern river ecosystem,
the Saskatchewan River basin, Canada’s most threatened river.  The student
will work as part of large inter-disciplinary team examining the role of shallow
wetlands in driving fish and wildlife production in large rivers.  This
unique opportunity will involve the delivery of water from the river into a
previously dry spillway channel by a hydropower production company
(SaskPower).  This experimental wetland will be used to understand if
temporary habitats boost biological production for the broader river
ecosystem.  The candidate will test if these temporary habitats are a net
source or sink of carbon production and if carbon produced in the system is transferred
to emerging aquatic insects.
 
Qualifications: Applicants will have a Master’s degree in
Biology, Environmental Sciences, or equivalent and meet the requirements for
admission into the PhD program in the School of Environment and Sustainability
(www.usask.ca/sens).
Prior experience with ecological field work and a valid driver’s license are
required.  Experience with sensor-based measurements of ecosystem
metabolism and secondary production of benthic invertebrates, first-aid
training, and proficiency in operating watercraft would be considered
assets.  Preference will be given to applicants to the PhD program with a
prior graduate degree, but exceptional students entering a Master’s program will
also be considered.
 
Starting
date: September 2013
For
further information contact:
Dr. Helen Baulch 
 (helen.baulch at usask.ca)      
                     
                     
                       
                     
      
Dr. Tim Jardine  (tim.jardine at usask.ca)
 
PhD and MSc Positions available: Winter limnology
Research opportunity:  Rapid declines in the duration of lake
ice cover have been observed across much of the temperate zone.  However,
study of lakes during winter remains rare.  This research program will
combine field-based sampling and modeling approaches to assess how declining
periods of ice cover will affect lake oxygen dynamics and lake
biogeochemistry. 
Location:  This
position is at the University of Saskatchewan (Saskatoon, Canada) within the
Global Institute for Water Security (www.usask.ca/water).  
The institute hosts a multidisciplinary group of water researchers, and offers
outstanding training opportunities and facilities for water-related research.
 The student will work with Dr. Helen Baulch (http://homepage.usask.ca/~hmb925/index.php),
and have the excellent collaborative opportunities within the institute,
university, and more broadly across other institutions and government
agencies. 
Qualifications:  The
ideal applicant will have a MSc, and strong field and lab research
skills.  Research will involve field work, so enjoying outdoor activities
during winter is essential.  The ideal candidate will also:
·         Have
a background in limnology or biogeochemistry
·         Enjoy
working within a team-setting
·         Have
strong writing skills and excellent quantitative skills
Applications:  To express interest in the position, please send
a CV and cover letter outlining your background and interests to Helen Baulch (helen.baulch at usask.ca). 
The student will also be required to apply for graduate studies at the
University of Saskatchewan.  The start date for this position is flexible,
and applications will be considered as they are submitted. 
Informal inquiries are also
welcome.  Please contact Helen Baulch (helen.baulch at usask.ca)
for additional information.
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