M.Sc. studentship in Biology

Algoma University; Sault Ste. Marie; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An exciting opportunity awaits motivated students at a forward-thinking university! Join a dynamic research group focused on forest disturbance and community ecology, exploring how ecosystems respond to disturbances like wildfires. This role offers hands-on experience in fieldwork and laboratory training, with collaborative support from provincial agencies and Indigenous communities. Ideal candidates will have a background in biology and a passion for ecological research. Apply now to contribute to innovative solutions for forest management and conservation in Ontario's boreal zone!

Benefits

Funding and research support

Collaborative research environment

Opportunities for fieldwork

Laboratory training

Networking with leading ecologists

Qualifications

• Ideal for students interested in ecology and ecosystem resilience.
• Prior experience in microbial ecology or field biology is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field-based experimental research in boreal forests.
• Analyze biodiversity and contribute to conservation planning.

Skills

community ecology

soil-plant-microbe interactions

molecular ecology

statistical analysis (R)

Education

4-year Honours degree in Biology

Tools

R

Job description

M.Sc. Opportunity in Forest Disturbance and Community Ecology of Plant-Soil interactions– Algoma University

The Plant and Soil Ecology Lab at Algoma University is seeking a motivated M.Sc. student to join our research group starting Fall 2025 or Winter 2026. The successful candidate will work on a collaborative project with Dr. Pedro Antunes and Dr. Stephen Mayor (Ontario Forest Research Institute) as part of a funded research initiative under the Wildfire Resilient Futures Initiative. This exciting project explores how multiple ecosystem components (plant, songbird, and soil communities) in boreal forests respond to landscape scale disturbances, such as wildfire and insect outbreaks.

This position is ideal for students interested in community ecology, soil-plant-microbe interactions, and ecosystem resilience to major disturbances. The project combines field-based experimental research, biodiversity analysis, and molecular ecology, with opportunities to contribute to adaptive forest management and conservation planning in Ontario’s boreal zone.

What we offer:

• Funding and research support
• Collaborative research environment including provincial agencies and Indigenous communities
• Opportunities for fieldwork, laboratory training, and science-policy engagement
• Co-supervision and networking with leading ecologists

Eligibility: Applicants should meet the admission requirements for the M.Sc. in Biology at Algoma University (4-year Honours degree in Biology or related field, minimum 75% average). Prior experience in microbial ecology, field biology, or statistical analysis (e.g., R) is an asset but not required.

To apply: Email your CV including 3 references, unofficial transcripts, and a brief statement of interest to Pedro M. Antunes, pedro.antunes [at] algomau.ca, by May 10, 2025 for Fall start or July 1, 2025 for Winter start.

Learn more about the graduate program: https://algomau.ca/academics/school-of-life-sciences-and-the-environment/msc-biology/