Research Coordinator, Ecology and Conservation of Lake Superior Caribou

The Wildlife Society; Central Ontario; On-site; CAD 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution is seeking a Research Coordinator to support the conservation of woodland caribou in Ontario. This 18-month position includes an annual salary of CA$80,000 plus benefits. The role involves planning fieldwork, managing ecological data, and collaborating with Indigenous communities. A PhD in ecology or a related field is required, along with strong communication skills and fieldwork experience.

Benefits

University medical and dental benefits

Qualifications

• Experience in fieldwork related to ecology or conservation biology.
• Ability to work collaboratively with Indigenous communities and university partners.
• Interest in conservation biology and ecological assessment methods.

Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct fieldwork related to woodland caribou conservation.
• Manage and analyze ecological data collected through various methods.
• Collaborate with Michipicoten First Nation and report progress.
• Meet on campus to coordinate activities.
• Write reports and manuscripts for publication.

Skills

Fieldwork experience

Strong communication skills

Collaborative work

Interest in conservation biology

Education

PhD in ecology or related discipline

Job description

Overview

Trent University is seeking a Research Coordinator to support the conservation of woodland caribou on eastern Lake Superior. This 18-month position (to March 2027, inclusive) includes an annual salary of CA$80,000, plus university medical and dental benefits. The position can be offered in the form of a Post Doctoral Fellowship.

The project, in collaboration with Michipicoten First Nation, is aimed at improving ecological knowledge and the conservation of woodland caribou on Michipicoten Island, Caribou Island, and the adjacent mainland of Lake Superior. The research will focus on the ecological assessment of the islands and their caribou populations — using camera traps, permanent plots, aerial surveys, and Indigenous community knowledge. The Coordinator is expected to help plan and conduct fieldwork, manage and analyze data, meet (at least once per term) on the Trent University campus, and write reports and manuscripts for publication. The Coordinator will work in tandem with Michipicoten First Nation and will be supervised by Drs. Mary-Claire Buell and Jim Schaefer at Trent University.

Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct fieldwork related to woodland caribou conservation on Michipicoten Island, Caribou Island, and the adjacent mainland of Lake Superior.
• Manage and analyze ecological data collected through camera traps, permanent plots, aerial surveys, and Indigenous community knowledge.
• Collaborate with Michipicoten First Nation and supervisees; report progress to Drs. Mary-Claire Buell and Jim Schaefer.
• Meet at least once per term on the Trent University campus to coordinate activities.
• Write reports and manuscripts for publication based on project findings.

Qualifications

• PhD in ecology or related discipline.
• Experience in fieldwork related to ecology or conservation biology.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with Indigenous communities and university partners.
• Interest in conservation biology and ecological assessment methods.

How to Apply

To apply, submit your resume and cover letter via email to [e-mail]. Starting September 26, 2025, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis; early submission is encouraged.

Additional Information

This position is an 18-month appointment (to March 2027, inclusive) and may be offered as a Post Doctoral Fellowship. The appointment includes an annual salary of CA$80,000, plus university medical and dental benefits.