Currently Available Positions
PhD student (S1-PhD2), Development and testing of scenario building methods
PhD student (S1-PhD2)
Start Date: Fall 2020
Salary: $21,000/year + possibility of additional scholarships
Duration: 4 years
Location: Based at McGill’s Macdonald Campus
Supervisors: Dr. Elena Bennett and Dr. Gordon Hickey
Description:
Working with the Synthesis team with co-supervision by Dr. Elena Bennett and Dr. Gordon Hickey, this student will create, and test, ecosystem service scenario development methods (qualitative and quantitative), in a series of six landscapes across Canada. Scenarios are an important tool in environmental projects, helping scientists and stakeholders envision the variety of possible futures. And how these scenarios are developed, and with whom, can have a critical impact on learning and other outcomes. The PhD project could also involve investigations into the process of building quantitative models to accompany qualitative scenarios, the importance of scale in scenario building, foresight analysis, and the role of scenarios in management decisions of multiple stakeholders.
Ideal Qualifications: We seek a candidate with an MSc degree that focused on ecosystem services or scenario development, who is comfortable working with a wide variety of academic and non-academic partners as part of a large project. Strong facilitation skills, excellent capacity for organization, and attention to detail are a plus. A strong publication record will indicate capacity to write the high level papers we anticipate will be the outcome of this PhD.
To Apply: To apply, send a cover letter describing your background and fit to the position, along with a CV, and list of references to the ResNet Deputy Scientific Director, Klara.winkler@mcgill.ca. As we have multiple positions open, please explicitly state the position for which you are applying. References will only be contacted for short-listed candidates.
PhD student (S1-PhD2)
Start Date: Fall 2020
Salary: $21,000/year + possibility of additional scholarships
Duration: 4 years
Location: Based at McGill’s Macdonald Campus
Supervisors: Dr. Elena Bennett and Dr. Gordon Hickey
Description:
Working with the Synthesis team with co-supervision by Dr. Elena Bennett and Dr. Gordon Hickey, this student will create, and test, ecosystem service scenario development methods (qualitative and quantitative), in a series of six landscapes across Canada. Scenarios are an important tool in environmental projects, helping scientists and stakeholders envision the variety of possible futures. And how these scenarios are developed, and with whom, can have a critical impact on learning and other outcomes. The PhD project could also involve investigations into the process of building quantitative models to accompany qualitative scenarios, the importance of scale in scenario building, foresight analysis, and the role of scenarios in management decisions of multiple stakeholders.
Ideal Qualifications: We seek a candidate with an MSc degree that focused on ecosystem services or scenario development, who is comfortable working with a wide variety of academic and non-academic partners as part of a large project. Strong facilitation skills, excellent capacity for organization, and attention to detail are a plus. A strong publication record will indicate capacity to write the high level papers we anticipate will be the outcome of this PhD.
To Apply: To apply, send a cover letter describing your background and fit to the position, along with a CV, and list of references to the ResNet Deputy Scientific Director, Klara.winkler@mcgill.ca. As we have multiple positions open, please explicitly state the position for which you are applying. References will only be contacted for short-listed candidates.
Research Associate (S1-RA1), Building an ecosystem service dashboard for Canada
Start Date: As soon as possible
Salary: $51,000-$58,000, commensurate with experience,
Duration: 5 years
Location: Based at McGill’s Macdonald Campus
Supervisors: Dr. Elena Bennett and Dr. Andy Gonzalez
Project info: http://www.nsercresnet.ca
Description
This 5-year research position that will work across all landscapes and themes of the project to build and road-test a prototype dashboard for monitoring ecosystem services across Canada using machine learning alongside inductive modeling. We will start by developing a prototype dashboard for monitoring ecosystem services at multiple scales. The successful applicant will use generalized models of ecosystem service networks built by the ResNet project team (theme 3), incorporate predictions arising from models of ecosystem service supply and demand (theme 2), and data and other knowledge from across the project’s target landscapes (landscapes 1-6), including decision-space maps (theme 1). This level of integration will ensure that the platform has applicability to decisions made in Canada’s working landscapes. The aim is to ensure that we account for not only production of or demand for ecosystem services, but include flows from one landscape to another that are often ignored in ES decision-making. Ultimately, the platform will enable Canada to incorporate data and model-based projections from ongoing monitoring systems for ecological and social-ecological change into its national accounting system for ecosystem services. The platform will be the source of information needed to enable better decision-making for ecosystem services in and across Canadian working landscapes. For more information on the project, please visit http://www.nsercresnet.ca.
Ideal Qualifications
We seek a candidate with a PhD with experience in dashboard development and programming, ecological modeling and ecosystem services, or a related field. Necessarily skills include top-notch inductive modelling skills, machine-learning, excellent capacity for synthesis, good people and communications skills to work across the entire project. High level programming skills needed to build a prototype user interface for the dashboard will be valuable. We will seek a 5-year commitment to this critical synthesis position.
Application Procedure
To apply, send a cover letter describing your background and fit to the position, along with a CV, and list of references to elena.bennett@mcgill.ca. As we have multiple positions open, please explicitly state the position for which you are applying. References will only be contacted for short-listed candidates.
Application deadline: Open until filled. Only short-listed candidates will be notified.
Start Date: As soon as possible
Salary: $51,000-$58,000, commensurate with experience,
Duration: 5 years
Location: Based at McGill’s Macdonald Campus
Supervisors: Dr. Elena Bennett and Dr. Andy Gonzalez
Project info: http://www.nsercresnet.ca
Description
This 5-year research position that will work across all landscapes and themes of the project to build and road-test a prototype dashboard for monitoring ecosystem services across Canada using machine learning alongside inductive modeling. We will start by developing a prototype dashboard for monitoring ecosystem services at multiple scales. The successful applicant will use generalized models of ecosystem service networks built by the ResNet project team (theme 3), incorporate predictions arising from models of ecosystem service supply and demand (theme 2), and data and other knowledge from across the project’s target landscapes (landscapes 1-6), including decision-space maps (theme 1). This level of integration will ensure that the platform has applicability to decisions made in Canada’s working landscapes. The aim is to ensure that we account for not only production of or demand for ecosystem services, but include flows from one landscape to another that are often ignored in ES decision-making. Ultimately, the platform will enable Canada to incorporate data and model-based projections from ongoing monitoring systems for ecological and social-ecological change into its national accounting system for ecosystem services. The platform will be the source of information needed to enable better decision-making for ecosystem services in and across Canadian working landscapes. For more information on the project, please visit http://www.nsercresnet.ca.
Ideal Qualifications
We seek a candidate with a PhD with experience in dashboard development and programming, ecological modeling and ecosystem services, or a related field. Necessarily skills include top-notch inductive modelling skills, machine-learning, excellent capacity for synthesis, good people and communications skills to work across the entire project. High level programming skills needed to build a prototype user interface for the dashboard will be valuable. We will seek a 5-year commitment to this critical synthesis position.
Application Procedure
To apply, send a cover letter describing your background and fit to the position, along with a CV, and list of references to elena.bennett@mcgill.ca. As we have multiple positions open, please explicitly state the position for which you are applying. References will only be contacted for short-listed candidates.
Application deadline: Open until filled. Only short-listed candidates will be notified.
PhD student (S1-PhD1), Understanding ecosystem service indicators
Start Date: Fall 2020
Salary: $21,000/year + possibility of additional scholarships
Duration: 4 years
Location: Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill’s Macdonald Campus
Supervisors: Dr. Elena Bennett and Dr. Murray Humphries
Description
Working with the synthesis team, and with co-supervision by Dr. Humphries and Dr. Bennett, this student will investigate indicators used to monitor ecosystem services at a variety of scales across Canada and around the world, with special attention on interactions, both among services (trade-offs or compatibilities) and places (that produce, use, and trade these services).
This PhD student, working with the support of the project data manager, and in conjunction with all Theme and Landscape Leads, will develop a scientific framework for multi-scale ecosystem service data collection and analysis. This fundamental step will ensure that care is taken to measure services across project landscapes in a comparable manner that can scale up to a national observatory. Research shows (i) a remarkable variability in the way ecosystem services are conceived and measured, including a significant gap between economic and ecological communities, (ii) that changing the scale at which ES are quantified alters our understanding of their impacts and outcomes, and (iii) the proxies used to quantify ecosystem service are often too coarse or too indirect to fully support evidence-based policy. Devising an observatory that aims to be functional for both landscape- and national-scale decision-making must consider comparability, measurability, and scale.
Ideal Qualifications
We seek a candidate with an MSc degree that focused on ecosystem service measurement or similar, with experience working across multiple scales, and as part of large projects. Familiarity with Canada's varied landscapes and ecosystem services would be an asset, as would an ability to work with or build ecosystem service models. A good publication record will indicate capacity to write the high level papers we anticipate will be the outcome of this PhD.
To Apply: To apply, send a cover letter describing your background and fit to the position, along with a CV, and list of references to the ResNet Deputy Scientific Director, Klara.winkler@mcgill.ca. As we have multiple positions open, please explicitly state the position for which you are applying. References will only be contacted for short-listed candidates.
PhD student (S1-PhD1), Understanding ecosystem service indicators
Start Date: Fall 2020
Salary: $21,000/year + possibility of additional scholarships
Duration: 4 years
Location: Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill’s Macdonald Campus
Supervisors: Dr. Elena Bennett and Dr. Murray Humphries
Description
Working with the synthesis team, and with co-supervision by Dr. Humphries and Dr. Bennett, this student will investigate indicators used to monitor ecosystem services at a variety of scales across Canada and around the world, with special attention on interactions, both among services (trade-offs or compatibilities) and places (that produce, use, and trade these services).
This PhD student, working with the support of the project data manager, and in conjunction with all Theme and Landscape Leads, will develop a scientific framework for multi-scale ecosystem service data collection and analysis. This fundamental step will ensure that care is taken to measure services across project landscapes in a comparable manner that can scale up to a national observatory. Research shows (i) a remarkable variability in the way ecosystem services are conceived and measured, including a significant gap between economic and ecological communities, (ii) that changing the scale at which ES are quantified alters our understanding of their impacts and outcomes, and (iii) the proxies used to quantify ecosystem service are often too coarse or too indirect to fully support evidence-based policy. Devising an observatory that aims to be functional for both landscape- and national-scale decision-making must consider comparability, measurability, and scale.
Ideal Qualifications
We seek a candidate with an MSc degree that focused on ecosystem service measurement or similar, with experience working across multiple scales, and as part of large projects. Familiarity with Canada's varied landscapes and ecosystem services would be an asset, as would an ability to work with or build ecosystem service models. A good publication record will indicate capacity to write the high level papers we anticipate will be the outcome of this PhD.
To Apply: To apply, send a cover letter describing your background and fit to the position, along with a CV, and list of references to the ResNet Deputy Scientific Director, Klara.winkler@mcgill.ca. As we have multiple positions open, please explicitly state the position for which you are applying. References will only be contacted for short-listed candidates.
NSERC ResNet positions in other labs
Two Masters of Environmental Studies positions at Dalhousie with Kate Sherren
I am co-leading the Atlantic landscape node of a new NSERC Strategic Partnership Grant for Networks called NSERC ResNet (led by Elena Bennett at McGill) which seeks to use ecosystem services thinking and modelling to resolve complex decision-making issues in production landscapes. The Atlantic case study landscape is the Bay of Fundy dykeland system, which has largely replaced its salt marshes with drained agricultural land starting with French settlement in the 1600s (read more herehttps://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0264837715003749). Sea level rise and increasing storm activity means difficult decisions on which dykes should be reinforced for agricultural persistence, which may need to be shortened to reduce infrastructure burdens, and where tidal marsh restoration may be feasible to provide natural protections. The early years of NSERC ResNet will see us exploring ecosystem service delivery from dykelands and marshes, and intermediary states, to inform those decisions.
I am looking for up to two students to begin Masters of Environmental Studies (MES) with me at Dalhousie (https://www.dal.ca/academics/programs/graduate/environmental-studies/program-details.html) to tackle research on how settlers and Mi’kmaq use and value the drained agricultural land (dykelands) and the salt marshes they replaced (and to which sections will return if abandoned or realigned). Opportunities for students as part of NSERC ResNet are many and include additional training opportunities as well as national and international internships and networking. Candidates should be socially curious, ideally trained in social science fields (e.g. first degrees in Geography, Environmental Studies, Sociology, Anthropology, Planning) and interested in methods such as quantitative surveys and/or semi-structured interviews. Canadians and permanent residents in Canada will be given preference, but we are extremely keen to hear from students who identify as belonging to equity-seeking groups (This helps clarify what that means to Dalhousie:https://cdn.dal.ca/content/dam/dalhousie/pdf/dept/hres/Self-ID-prospective-employees-2017.pdf. Aboriginal students are particularly encouraged to apply.
Please contact me to express interest (have a look here first http://katesherren.org/how-to-express-interest-in-working-with-me/), and be prepared to provide a c.v., unofficial transcripts, and evidence of English competency and skill.
I am co-leading the Atlantic landscape node of a new NSERC Strategic Partnership Grant for Networks called NSERC ResNet (led by Elena Bennett at McGill) which seeks to use ecosystem services thinking and modelling to resolve complex decision-making issues in production landscapes. The Atlantic case study landscape is the Bay of Fundy dykeland system, which has largely replaced its salt marshes with drained agricultural land starting with French settlement in the 1600s (read more herehttps://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0264837715003749). Sea level rise and increasing storm activity means difficult decisions on which dykes should be reinforced for agricultural persistence, which may need to be shortened to reduce infrastructure burdens, and where tidal marsh restoration may be feasible to provide natural protections. The early years of NSERC ResNet will see us exploring ecosystem service delivery from dykelands and marshes, and intermediary states, to inform those decisions.
I am looking for up to two students to begin Masters of Environmental Studies (MES) with me at Dalhousie (https://www.dal.ca/academics/programs/graduate/environmental-studies/program-details.html) to tackle research on how settlers and Mi’kmaq use and value the drained agricultural land (dykelands) and the salt marshes they replaced (and to which sections will return if abandoned or realigned). Opportunities for students as part of NSERC ResNet are many and include additional training opportunities as well as national and international internships and networking. Candidates should be socially curious, ideally trained in social science fields (e.g. first degrees in Geography, Environmental Studies, Sociology, Anthropology, Planning) and interested in methods such as quantitative surveys and/or semi-structured interviews. Canadians and permanent residents in Canada will be given preference, but we are extremely keen to hear from students who identify as belonging to equity-seeking groups (This helps clarify what that means to Dalhousie:https://cdn.dal.ca/content/dam/dalhousie/pdf/dept/hres/Self-ID-prospective-employees-2017.pdf. Aboriginal students are particularly encouraged to apply.
Please contact me to express interest (have a look here first http://katesherren.org/how-to-express-interest-in-working-with-me/), and be prepared to provide a c.v., unofficial transcripts, and evidence of English competency and skill.
Modeling ecosystem services across Canada
ResNet PhD student (T2-PhD1)
Start Date: Fall 2020
Location: McGill University
Supervisor: Dr. Brian Robinson (McGill)
Description
This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated student to join a dynamic research
consortium and contribute to innovative research through developing next-generation
ecosystem service models that integrate nature and people. This PhD student will focus on
developing models that describe how communities benefit from ecosystem services. As such,
the student will primarily focus on developing skills in quantitative human geography,
geographic information sciences, and environmental/ecological economics.
The research program involves a consortium of leading universities across Canada working with
local government and civil society partners to address real-world issues in 6 working
landscapes, and is highly interdisciplinary. We will use methods and tools from a range of
disciplines to model the impacts of policy scenarios on changes in ecosystem services and the
resulting benefits to people.
The position will be based at McGill’s Department of Geography and be supervised by Dr.
Robinson. A parallel PhD will work with partners at UBC to develop next-generation provision
ecosystem service models. The successful student will benefit from opportunities to work with
world-class investigators in Canada, develop connections with partner institutions, attend
technical workshops and team meetings, and contribute to local policy debates in our working
landscape.
The successful candidate must have an exceptional aptitude for analytical and critical thinking
about scientific problems, data, and analytical methods; strong written and oral communication
capabilities; motivation for problem solving; aptitude for interdisciplinary research and teamwork;
and ability to work and learn independently. For postdoctoral appointees, there will be scope for
the post holder to transition from mentored research to an independent research agenda.
Ideal Qualifications
Application procedure
Application details: Interested candidates should email brian.e.robinson@mcgill.ca (with subject: PhD in
ES modelling) with
1. A short letter describing what you think you are a good fit for the position, your research
background, interests, and qualifications,
2. Your curriculum vitae,
3. Most recent 3 years of transcripts (unofficial are ok).
Potential candidates will be contacted. Formal applications to the department of Geography’s
PhD program are due January 15th, 2019. See
https://www.mcgill.ca/geography/graduate#AppProcess for other departmental admissions
requirements.
ResNet PhD student (T2-PhD1)
Start Date: Fall 2020
Location: McGill University
Supervisor: Dr. Brian Robinson (McGill)
Description
This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated student to join a dynamic research
consortium and contribute to innovative research through developing next-generation
ecosystem service models that integrate nature and people. This PhD student will focus on
developing models that describe how communities benefit from ecosystem services. As such,
the student will primarily focus on developing skills in quantitative human geography,
geographic information sciences, and environmental/ecological economics.
The research program involves a consortium of leading universities across Canada working with
local government and civil society partners to address real-world issues in 6 working
landscapes, and is highly interdisciplinary. We will use methods and tools from a range of
disciplines to model the impacts of policy scenarios on changes in ecosystem services and the
resulting benefits to people.
The position will be based at McGill’s Department of Geography and be supervised by Dr.
Robinson. A parallel PhD will work with partners at UBC to develop next-generation provision
ecosystem service models. The successful student will benefit from opportunities to work with
world-class investigators in Canada, develop connections with partner institutions, attend
technical workshops and team meetings, and contribute to local policy debates in our working
landscape.
The successful candidate must have an exceptional aptitude for analytical and critical thinking
about scientific problems, data, and analytical methods; strong written and oral communication
capabilities; motivation for problem solving; aptitude for interdisciplinary research and teamwork;
and ability to work and learn independently. For postdoctoral appointees, there will be scope for
the post holder to transition from mentored research to an independent research agenda.
Ideal Qualifications
- Bachelors and/or Masters in quantitate methods, spatial analysis, applied data science
- Familiarity with ecosystem services modeling, methods, and theory.
- Track record of technical and scholarly excellence
- Superior data management and organizational skills
Application procedure
Application details: Interested candidates should email brian.e.robinson@mcgill.ca (with subject: PhD in
ES modelling) with
1. A short letter describing what you think you are a good fit for the position, your research
background, interests, and qualifications,
2. Your curriculum vitae,
3. Most recent 3 years of transcripts (unofficial are ok).
Potential candidates will be contacted. Formal applications to the department of Geography’s
PhD program are due January 15th, 2019. See
https://www.mcgill.ca/geography/graduate#AppProcess for other departmental admissions
requirements.
Modeling ecosystem services across Canada
ResNet PhD student (T2-PhD2)
Start Date: Fall 2020
Location: The University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC
Supervisors: Dr. Lael Parrott (UBC)
Description
This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated student to join a dynamic research
consortium and contribute to innovative research through developing next-generation
ecosystem service models that integrate nature and people. This PhD student will focus on
developing models that describe landscape scale ecosystem service provisioning. As such, the
student will primarily focus on developing skills in quantitative geography, geographic
information sciences, land use and land cover change and environmental, modelling.
The research program involves a consortium of leading universities across Canada working with
local government and civil society partners to address real-world issues in 6 working
landscapes, and is highly interdisciplinary. We will use methods and tools from a range of
disciplines to model the impacts of policy scenarios on changes in ecosystem services and the
resulting benefits to people.
The position will be based at UBC’s Department of Earth, Environmental, and Geographic
Sciences and be supervised by Dr. Parrott. A parallel PhD will work with partners at McGill
University to develop next-generation ecosystem service demand models for the same
landscape. The successful student will benefit from opportunities to work with world-class
investigators in Canada, develop connections with partner institutions, attend technical
workshops and team meetings, and contribute to local policy debates in our working landscape.
The successful candidate must have an exceptional aptitude for analytical and critical thinking
about scientific problems, data, and analytical methods; strong written and oral communication
capabilities; motivation for problem solving; aptitude for interdisciplinary research and teamwork;
and ability to work and learn independently.
Ideal Qualifications
Financial support
The successful candidate will be offered a graduate research assistant stipend of $25,000/year
for four years, renewal subject to satisfactory academic progress. Candidates will be eligible to apply for teaching assistantships in the Department and for internal and external scholarships
and bursaries to supplement the research assistantship.
Application procedure
Application details: Interested candidates should email lael.parrott@ubc.ca (with subject: PhD in ES
modelling) with
1. A short letter describing why you think you are a good fit for the position, your research
background, interests, and qualifications,
2. Your curriculum vitae,
3. Most recent 3 years of transcripts (unofficial are ok).
Only potential candidates will be contacted.
The successful candidate will be required to submit an application for admission to the
Department of Earth, Environmental, and Geographic Sciences PhD program which is due
January 31th, 2019.
See https://gradstudies.ok.ubc.ca/ for further information about the program and admission
requirements.
ResNet PhD student (T2-PhD2)
Start Date: Fall 2020
Location: The University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC
Supervisors: Dr. Lael Parrott (UBC)
Description
This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated student to join a dynamic research
consortium and contribute to innovative research through developing next-generation
ecosystem service models that integrate nature and people. This PhD student will focus on
developing models that describe landscape scale ecosystem service provisioning. As such, the
student will primarily focus on developing skills in quantitative geography, geographic
information sciences, land use and land cover change and environmental, modelling.
The research program involves a consortium of leading universities across Canada working with
local government and civil society partners to address real-world issues in 6 working
landscapes, and is highly interdisciplinary. We will use methods and tools from a range of
disciplines to model the impacts of policy scenarios on changes in ecosystem services and the
resulting benefits to people.
The position will be based at UBC’s Department of Earth, Environmental, and Geographic
Sciences and be supervised by Dr. Parrott. A parallel PhD will work with partners at McGill
University to develop next-generation ecosystem service demand models for the same
landscape. The successful student will benefit from opportunities to work with world-class
investigators in Canada, develop connections with partner institutions, attend technical
workshops and team meetings, and contribute to local policy debates in our working landscape.
The successful candidate must have an exceptional aptitude for analytical and critical thinking
about scientific problems, data, and analytical methods; strong written and oral communication
capabilities; motivation for problem solving; aptitude for interdisciplinary research and teamwork;
and ability to work and learn independently.
Ideal Qualifications
- Master’s degree or equivalent in quantitative geography or environmental science, or a
- Proficiency in advanced GIS, spatial analysis, applied data science and computer
- Familiarity with ecosystem services modeling, methods, and theory.
- Track record of technical and scholarly excellence
- Superior data management and organizational skills
Financial support
The successful candidate will be offered a graduate research assistant stipend of $25,000/year
for four years, renewal subject to satisfactory academic progress. Candidates will be eligible to apply for teaching assistantships in the Department and for internal and external scholarships
and bursaries to supplement the research assistantship.
Application procedure
Application details: Interested candidates should email lael.parrott@ubc.ca (with subject: PhD in ES
modelling) with
1. A short letter describing why you think you are a good fit for the position, your research
background, interests, and qualifications,
2. Your curriculum vitae,
3. Most recent 3 years of transcripts (unofficial are ok).
Only potential candidates will be contacted.
The successful candidate will be required to submit an application for admission to the
Department of Earth, Environmental, and Geographic Sciences PhD program which is due
January 31th, 2019.
See https://gradstudies.ok.ubc.ca/ for further information about the program and admission
requirements.
Modeling ecosystem services across Canada
ResNet Post-doctoral Fellow (T2-PDF1)
Start Date: As soon as possible
Salary: $50,000 per annum + benefits
Duration: 2 years
Location: McGill University, Montreal, Canada
Supervisors: Dr. Brian Robinson (McGill) and Dr. Lael Parrott (UBC-Okanagan)
Description
This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated quantitative geographer or interdisciplinary
scientist to join a dynamic research consortium and contribute to innovative research through
developing next-generation ecosystem service models that integrate nature and people. The
PDF will source available data and develop appropriate quantitative methods in developing
these models.
The research program involves a consortium of leading universities across Canada working with
local government and civil society partners to address real-world issues in 6 working
landscapes, and is highly interdisciplinary. We will use methods and tools from a range of
disciplines to model the impacts of policy scenarios on changes in ecosystem services and the
resulting benefits to people.
The position will be based at McGill’s Department of Geography and be co-supervised by Drs.
Robinson and Parrott. The successful PDF will benefit from opportunities to collaborate with
world-class investigators in Canada and our partner institutions, attend technical workshops and
team meetings, and contribute to local policy debates in our sample of working landscape.
The successful candidate must have an exceptional aptitude for analytical and critical thinking
about scientific problems, data, and analytical methods; strong written and oral communication
capabilities; motivation for problem solving; aptitude for interdisciplinary research and teamwork;
and ability to work and learn independently. For postdoctoral appointees, there will be scope for
the post holder to transition from mentored research to an independent research agenda.
Ideal Qualifications
Main Duties
1. To apply existing methods or developing new ones for characterizing ecosystem
services at the landscape scale
2. To implement and test algorithms and models
3. To report and discuss the inputs, methods, and results of the analyses to audiences in
different fields and disciplines
4. To take initiatives in the planning of research
5. To participate in reports for publication in peer-reviewed journals, conferences and
submission to research sponsors
6. To attend research group meetings and other relevant meetings
7. To attend relevant workshops and conferences as necessary
8. Any other duties commensurate with the grade of the post as directed by supervisor
Application procedure
Application details: Interested candidates should email brian.e.robinson@mcgill.ca and
lael.parrott@ubc.ca (with subject: ES modelling Postdoc) with a single PDF containing (in order):
1. A cover letter describing your research background, interests, and qualifications,
2. A full curriculum vitae,
3. Contact information for at least 2 references, and
4. One or two sample publications.
Review of applications will begin on November 11, 2019. Competitive candidates will begin to
be contacted shortly thereafter, with review ongoing until a suitable candidate is found. Only
shortlisted candidates will be contacted. We welcome applications from indigenous peoples,
visible minorities, ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, women, persons of minority sexual
orientations and gender
ResNet Post-doctoral Fellow (T2-PDF1)
Start Date: As soon as possible
Salary: $50,000 per annum + benefits
Duration: 2 years
Location: McGill University, Montreal, Canada
Supervisors: Dr. Brian Robinson (McGill) and Dr. Lael Parrott (UBC-Okanagan)
Description
This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated quantitative geographer or interdisciplinary
scientist to join a dynamic research consortium and contribute to innovative research through
developing next-generation ecosystem service models that integrate nature and people. The
PDF will source available data and develop appropriate quantitative methods in developing
these models.
The research program involves a consortium of leading universities across Canada working with
local government and civil society partners to address real-world issues in 6 working
landscapes, and is highly interdisciplinary. We will use methods and tools from a range of
disciplines to model the impacts of policy scenarios on changes in ecosystem services and the
resulting benefits to people.
The position will be based at McGill’s Department of Geography and be co-supervised by Drs.
Robinson and Parrott. The successful PDF will benefit from opportunities to collaborate with
world-class investigators in Canada and our partner institutions, attend technical workshops and
team meetings, and contribute to local policy debates in our sample of working landscape.
The successful candidate must have an exceptional aptitude for analytical and critical thinking
about scientific problems, data, and analytical methods; strong written and oral communication
capabilities; motivation for problem solving; aptitude for interdisciplinary research and teamwork;
and ability to work and learn independently. For postdoctoral appointees, there will be scope for
the post holder to transition from mentored research to an independent research agenda.
Ideal Qualifications
- PhD in quantitative geography or similar, with applied computer programming
- Technical competence in spatial science, data science, and applications to geographic
- Familiarity with data sources that could characterize the supply of ecosystem services
- Track record of technical and scholarly excellence as demonstrated through
- Background in ecosystem services
- Superior data management and organizational skills
- Some familiarity with machine/deep learning is a plus
Main Duties
1. To apply existing methods or developing new ones for characterizing ecosystem
services at the landscape scale
2. To implement and test algorithms and models
3. To report and discuss the inputs, methods, and results of the analyses to audiences in
different fields and disciplines
4. To take initiatives in the planning of research
5. To participate in reports for publication in peer-reviewed journals, conferences and
submission to research sponsors
6. To attend research group meetings and other relevant meetings
7. To attend relevant workshops and conferences as necessary
8. Any other duties commensurate with the grade of the post as directed by supervisor
Application procedure
Application details: Interested candidates should email brian.e.robinson@mcgill.ca and
lael.parrott@ubc.ca (with subject: ES modelling Postdoc) with a single PDF containing (in order):
1. A cover letter describing your research background, interests, and qualifications,
2. A full curriculum vitae,
3. Contact information for at least 2 references, and
4. One or two sample publications.
Review of applications will begin on November 11, 2019. Competitive candidates will begin to
be contacted shortly thereafter, with review ongoing until a suitable candidate is found. Only
shortlisted candidates will be contacted. We welcome applications from indigenous peoples,
visible minorities, ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, women, persons of minority sexual
orientations and gender
Pollination MSc Position, Saint Mary's University
MSc student (L1-MSc3), Pollination services to cropland
Start date: January 1 preferred, May 1 possible
Location: Based at Saint Mary's University, Halifax, Nova Scotia
The MSc student will quantify the value of pollination in crops adjacent to dykelands and salt marshes using a pollinator exclusion experiment. The student will also conduct visitation surveys in croplands to determine abundance, composition and diversity of pollinator species visiting crops. Field work will be carried out in Nova Scotia's Annapolis valley. Crops studied may include apple, pumpkin or soybean.
We seek someone with an honours BSc degree in Biology, Environmental Science or Physical Geography. Experience working with pollinators and/or identifying insects is an asset.
This project will be co-supervised by Dr. Jeremy Lundholm and Dr. Alana Pindar at Saint Mary's University.
If interested, please contact mailto:jlundholm@smu.ca
MSc student (L1-MSc3), Pollination services to cropland
Start date: January 1 preferred, May 1 possible
Location: Based at Saint Mary's University, Halifax, Nova Scotia
The MSc student will quantify the value of pollination in crops adjacent to dykelands and salt marshes using a pollinator exclusion experiment. The student will also conduct visitation surveys in croplands to determine abundance, composition and diversity of pollinator species visiting crops. Field work will be carried out in Nova Scotia's Annapolis valley. Crops studied may include apple, pumpkin or soybean.
We seek someone with an honours BSc degree in Biology, Environmental Science or Physical Geography. Experience working with pollinators and/or identifying insects is an asset.
This project will be co-supervised by Dr. Jeremy Lundholm and Dr. Alana Pindar at Saint Mary's University.
If interested, please contact mailto:jlundholm@smu.ca
ResNet Post-doctoral Fellow (T3-PDF1), Monitoring change in spatial ecosystem service networks
Start Date: As soon as possible
Salary: $50,000 per annum + benefits
Duration: 2 years
Location: McGill University
Supervisors: Dr. Andrew Gonzalez (McGill) and Dr. Marie-Josée Fortin (Toronto)
We are seeking an exceptional postdoctoral researcher to conduct research on the problem of identifying and monitoring change in spatial networks of biodiversity and ecosystem service (ES) supply. The PDF will develop appropriate quantitative methods and apply them to a selection of Canadian resource use landscapes.
The specific research objectives are (i) using existing data to identify spatial ES networks in our six partner landscapes, (ii) the identification of statistically robust network indicators for trend detection in the supply and connectivity of ES, and (iii) to develop methods that support decisions for the allocation of resources to monitor ES across space (and time) in order to maximize the information obtained from the ES monitoring networks in each landscape.
The PDF will employ methods for ecosystem service network monitoring, which draw upon a powerful suite of tools for identifying the connectivity of the ES network, and for ranking the importance of the nodes and links to the dynamical state of network.
This postdoc is part of a larger NSERC Strategic Network, ResNet, an exciting new research network with the ambitious goal of providing scientific knowledge for the management of ecosystem services to enable more resilient resource management in Canada’s working landscapes and so ensure a prosperous and sustainable future for Canadians. NSERC ResNet brings together 26 co-applicants from 11 universities, 30 collaborators, and 17 partner organizations to address important questions about the management and future of Canada’s working landscapes and the critical ecosystem services they provide. This postdoc will be part of Theme 3, which will provide knowledge used by themes 1 and 2, and the partner landscapes, to make reliable inferences and predictions about the sustainability of ES provision into the future.
Essential Duties: The primary responsibilities of the successful candidate will be to conduct innovative research and outreach in collaboration with a diverse group of university scientists as well as their industry and government partners. The postdoc will co-lead a series of data collection workshops in different landscapes across Canada. The specific duties of the position will include model development and simulation; data collection; stakeholder discussions; report writing; workshop organization and the preparation of manuscripts in collaboration with the supervisors. The successful candidate will also be responsible for training graduate students and contributing to the development of competitive research grants as needed.
Applicants must have completed a Ph.D. in a relevant discipline within the last three years and have primary publications in refereed, English language journals. We are seeking fluency in written and spoken English, the ability to work cooperatively with the supervisors, and strong communication and organizational skills.
The ideal candidate will have expertise in numerical ecology, network methods, ecoinformatics, biodiversity and ecosystem service science, and a desire to develop novel methods in the monitoring of ecological change. We value creative and autonomous thinkers used to working in an interdisciplinary setting. National and international travel will be required.
To apply, please send a cover letter describing your research background, interests, and qualifications; two example publications demonstrating your relevant research experience; plus, a complete curriculum vitae and contact information for at least two references to andrew.gonzalez@mcgill.ca and mariejosee.fortin@utoronto.ca
Application deadline: Open until filled. Only short-listed candidates will be notified
Start Date: As soon as possible
Salary: $50,000 per annum + benefits
Duration: 2 years
Location: McGill University
Supervisors: Dr. Andrew Gonzalez (McGill) and Dr. Marie-Josée Fortin (Toronto)
We are seeking an exceptional postdoctoral researcher to conduct research on the problem of identifying and monitoring change in spatial networks of biodiversity and ecosystem service (ES) supply. The PDF will develop appropriate quantitative methods and apply them to a selection of Canadian resource use landscapes.
The specific research objectives are (i) using existing data to identify spatial ES networks in our six partner landscapes, (ii) the identification of statistically robust network indicators for trend detection in the supply and connectivity of ES, and (iii) to develop methods that support decisions for the allocation of resources to monitor ES across space (and time) in order to maximize the information obtained from the ES monitoring networks in each landscape.
The PDF will employ methods for ecosystem service network monitoring, which draw upon a powerful suite of tools for identifying the connectivity of the ES network, and for ranking the importance of the nodes and links to the dynamical state of network.
This postdoc is part of a larger NSERC Strategic Network, ResNet, an exciting new research network with the ambitious goal of providing scientific knowledge for the management of ecosystem services to enable more resilient resource management in Canada’s working landscapes and so ensure a prosperous and sustainable future for Canadians. NSERC ResNet brings together 26 co-applicants from 11 universities, 30 collaborators, and 17 partner organizations to address important questions about the management and future of Canada’s working landscapes and the critical ecosystem services they provide. This postdoc will be part of Theme 3, which will provide knowledge used by themes 1 and 2, and the partner landscapes, to make reliable inferences and predictions about the sustainability of ES provision into the future.
Essential Duties: The primary responsibilities of the successful candidate will be to conduct innovative research and outreach in collaboration with a diverse group of university scientists as well as their industry and government partners. The postdoc will co-lead a series of data collection workshops in different landscapes across Canada. The specific duties of the position will include model development and simulation; data collection; stakeholder discussions; report writing; workshop organization and the preparation of manuscripts in collaboration with the supervisors. The successful candidate will also be responsible for training graduate students and contributing to the development of competitive research grants as needed.
Applicants must have completed a Ph.D. in a relevant discipline within the last three years and have primary publications in refereed, English language journals. We are seeking fluency in written and spoken English, the ability to work cooperatively with the supervisors, and strong communication and organizational skills.
The ideal candidate will have expertise in numerical ecology, network methods, ecoinformatics, biodiversity and ecosystem service science, and a desire to develop novel methods in the monitoring of ecological change. We value creative and autonomous thinkers used to working in an interdisciplinary setting. National and international travel will be required.
To apply, please send a cover letter describing your research background, interests, and qualifications; two example publications demonstrating your relevant research experience; plus, a complete curriculum vitae and contact information for at least two references to andrew.gonzalez@mcgill.ca and mariejosee.fortin@utoronto.ca
Application deadline: Open until filled. Only short-listed candidates will be notified
Offre de doctorat dans le domaine de la conservation des services écologiques et de l’aménagement du paysage
Département de phytologie, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
Début: Janvier, mai ou septembre 2020
Salaire: $20 000/année + possibilité de recevoir un total de $16 000 du Fonds de soutien à la réussite si les objectifs sont atteints à temps
Durée: 4 ans
Emplacement: Université Laval, ville de Québec
Direction de recherche: Dre Monique Poulin (U Laval), Dre Stéphanie Pellerin (U de Montréal), Dr Jérôme Cimon-Morin (Ministère des Forêts, de la Faune et des Parcs, Québec).
Objectifs:
Nous sommes à la recherche d’une candidate ou d’un candidat d’exception afin de mener un doctorat au sujet de la conservation des services écologiques (SÉ) et de l’aménagement du paysage. Le projet sera réalisé dans des tourbières et des forêts de la région de la Côte-Nord, qui seront utilisées comme systèmes modèles afin de développer nos connaissances sur les meilleures stratégies à adopter pour une gestion durable des paysages dominés par l’Homme au Québec. Nous aborderons la question générale à savoir comment identifier les priorités en conservation et en restauration sans nuire au développement économique.
Contexte de recherche:
La région de la Côte-Nord étant dominée par la forêt et les milieux humides, les piliers économiques y sont les industries du bois et de la tourbe. Cette dernière est dépendante d’une tourbe de qualité, qui se trouve être un substrat de croissance pratiquement irremplaçable en horticulture. Cette industrie a développé des critères de base pour sélectionner des sites de récolte qui sont en accord avec des préoccupations socio-environnementales, telles que l’acceptabilité sociale et la rareté d’habitats spécifiques, mais elle manque encore d’outils pour intégrer plusieurs SÉ dans sa prise de décisions. L’industrie de la tourbe a également besoin de méthodes fiables pour aborder le compromis entre conservation et développement et réduire au minimum son empreinte environnementale dans la région. L’industrie forestière, elle, dépend des stocks de bois ainsi que de la capacité des forêts à se régénérer après récolte. Les forêts naturelles jouent non seulement un rôle crucial dans la régulation du climat en stockant le carbone dans la biomasse vivante, mais elles contribuent également à réduire l’albédo de surface et donc l’augmentation des températures, en absorbant une large part du rayonnement solaire. L’étude du compromis entre stockage de carbone et réduction de l’albédo après plantation aiderait la prise de décision au sein de l’industrie, particulièrement pour les forêts boréales.
Approche:
Premièrement, nous comparerons deux approches de modélisation pour prioriser les sites de conservation: l’approche par point chaud (hot spot), basée sur la concordance spatiale des SÉ, et la Planification systématique de la conservation, qui repose plutôt sur la complémentarité des sites. Nous estimerons les coûts (aire et nombre de sites sélectionnés dans les réseaux de conservation et pertes associées en potentiel d’extraction de ressources) et les bénéfices (atteinte des cibles de conservation) pour les deux approches. Deuxièmement, nous mesurerons les ratios coûts/bénéfices de plantations à la suite de la récolte de bois. Des scénarios de plantation seront évalués pour des espèces de conifères à feuilles persistantes (Picea glauca), de conifères décidus (Larix laricina), et de décidus à feuilles larges (Betula alleghaniensis), notamment en tenant compte de leur effet sur l’albédo et la régulation du climat. Troisièmement, nous évaluerons le coût associé aux délais dans la planification de la conservation des SÉ sous différents scénarios de développement industriel futur. Les procédures de sélection de sites et d’aménagement du paysage seront réalisées avec des programmes tels que Marxan, Woodstock et Landis.
Profil:
Les personnes désirant soumettre leur candidature doivent détenir une maîtrise dans le domaine de l’écologie, de la biologie, de l’environnement, de la géographie, des ressources naturelles ou dans un domaine connexe et avoir de bonnes connaissances ou un intérêt pour la conservation, notamment en ce qui a trait aux aspects des SÉ et de la planification systématique. Une expérience en publication scientifique serait un grand atout. Le candidat ou la candidate doit posséder de bonnes aptitudes en gestion de données, en SIG et en rédaction scientifique, en plus d’avoir une bonne capacité à collaborer avec les membres de l’équipe et les partenaires.
ResNet:
Ce projet fait partie d’un réseau pancanadien appelé ResNet, soutenu par le programme de réseaux stratégiques du CRSNG. Celui-ci rassemble 26 chercheuses et chercheurs, 11 universités, 30 collaborateurs et 17 organisations partenaires afin d’aborder des questions importantes au sujet de la gestion et du futur des paysages exploités et des SÉ critiques qu’ils fournissent. Le ou la candidate aura l’occasion d’interagir avec ces personnes à l’occasion de rencontres et d’ateliers.
Pour soumettre une candidature, merci d’envoyer une lettre de motivation décrivant votre expérience en recherche, vos intérêts et vos qualifications, ainsi qu’un CV et le contact d’au moins trois références à monique.poulin@fsaa.ulaval.ca.
Date limite pour les soumissions: L’offre reste ouverte jusqu’à ce qu’elle soit comblée. Seules les personnes retenues seront contactées.
************************************************************************
PhD Position in the field of Conservation of Ecosystem Services and Landscape Planning
Département de phytologie, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
Start Date: January, May or September 2020
Salary: $20,000/year + possibility to get $16,000 for the entire duration of studies from academic support funds if objectives are completed on time
Duration: 4 years
Location: Based at Laval University, Québec city
Supervisors: Dr Monique Poulin (ULaval), Dr. Stephanie Pellerin (Univ. of Montreal), Dr. Jerome Cimon-Morin (Ministry of Forests, Fauna and Parks, Qc).
Goal:
We are seeking an exceptional PhD candidate to conduct research on conservation of ecosystem services (ES) and landscape planning. The project will be conducted in peatlands and forests of the Côte-Nord region, that will be used as model systems to develop our knowledge on best management strategies for achieving sustainability in Québec’s human-dominated landscapes. We will address the general question of how to set conservation and restoration priorities without impeding economic development.
Research context:
The Côte-Nord region is dominated by forests and wetlands, while forestry and peat extraction are main economic pillars.The peat industry is dependent on good-quality peat, which has proved to be virtually irreplaceable as a growing substrate for horticultural products. This industry has developed basic criteria for selecting harvesting sites in accordance with socio-environmental concerns such as social acceptability and rarity of specific habitats, but lacks tools to integrate multiple ecosystem services. This industry is also in need of reliable methods to consider trade-offs between conservation and development to ensure the lowest possible environmental footprint regionally. The forest industry is dependent on actual wood stock as well as on the capacity of forests to regenerate after harvesting. Natural forests play crucial roles in climate regulation by stocking carbon through live biomass, but also contribute to reducing surface albedo and thus to increasing temperatures by absorbing a large part of sun radiance. Studying trade-offs between carbon stocking and reduced albedo after tree plantations would help decision making within this industry, particularly for northern forests.
Approach:
We will first compare two modelling approaches to prioritize conservation sites: the hot spot approach, based on spatial concordance of ES, and the Systematic Conservation Planning approach, which focuses rather on site complementarity. We will estimate costs (area and number of sites selected in conservation networks and associated losses of resources extraction potential) and benefits (conservation targets achieved) for both approaches. Second, we will assess the cost/benefits ratios of plantations after tree harvesting. Plantation scenarios will be assessed for evergreen coniferous (Picea glauca), deciduous coniferous (Larix laricina), and deciduous broad leaf species (Betula alleghaniensis), notably in regard to their effect on albedo and thereby on climate regulation. Third, we will evaluate the cost of postponing ES conservation planning under different scenarios of future industrial development. Site selection procedures and landscape planning will be performed using programs such as Marxan, Woodstock and Landis.
Profile:
Applicants must have completed a Master in the field of Ecology, Biology, Geography, Natural Resources, or a related field and have good knowledge or interest in biological conservation, notably on aspects related to ecosystem services and systematic conservation planning. Experience with scientific publications would be a great advantage. Speaking and reading French will be considered as a great asset as the candidate will integrate a French speaking team. At least he (she) should be ready to learn the basics of French. He (or she) should have good data management, GIS, and scientific writing skills. The candidate should have strong aptitudes for collaboration with other team members and partners.
ResNet
The project is part of a pan-Canadian network called ResNet, supported by the NSERC strategic network program. This network involves 26 researchers, 11 universities, 30 collaborators and 17 partner organizations to address important questions about the management and future of Canada’s working landscapes and the critical ecosystem services they provide. The candidate will interact with these people through workshops and meetings.
To apply, please send a cover letter describing your research background, interests, and qualifications; plus a curriculum vitae and contact information for at least three references to monique.poulin@fsaa.ulaval.ca.
Application deadline: Open until filled. Only short-listed candidates will be notified.
Département de phytologie, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
Début: Janvier, mai ou septembre 2020
Salaire: $20 000/année + possibilité de recevoir un total de $16 000 du Fonds de soutien à la réussite si les objectifs sont atteints à temps
Durée: 4 ans
Emplacement: Université Laval, ville de Québec
Direction de recherche: Dre Monique Poulin (U Laval), Dre Stéphanie Pellerin (U de Montréal), Dr Jérôme Cimon-Morin (Ministère des Forêts, de la Faune et des Parcs, Québec).
Objectifs:
Nous sommes à la recherche d’une candidate ou d’un candidat d’exception afin de mener un doctorat au sujet de la conservation des services écologiques (SÉ) et de l’aménagement du paysage. Le projet sera réalisé dans des tourbières et des forêts de la région de la Côte-Nord, qui seront utilisées comme systèmes modèles afin de développer nos connaissances sur les meilleures stratégies à adopter pour une gestion durable des paysages dominés par l’Homme au Québec. Nous aborderons la question générale à savoir comment identifier les priorités en conservation et en restauration sans nuire au développement économique.
Contexte de recherche:
La région de la Côte-Nord étant dominée par la forêt et les milieux humides, les piliers économiques y sont les industries du bois et de la tourbe. Cette dernière est dépendante d’une tourbe de qualité, qui se trouve être un substrat de croissance pratiquement irremplaçable en horticulture. Cette industrie a développé des critères de base pour sélectionner des sites de récolte qui sont en accord avec des préoccupations socio-environnementales, telles que l’acceptabilité sociale et la rareté d’habitats spécifiques, mais elle manque encore d’outils pour intégrer plusieurs SÉ dans sa prise de décisions. L’industrie de la tourbe a également besoin de méthodes fiables pour aborder le compromis entre conservation et développement et réduire au minimum son empreinte environnementale dans la région. L’industrie forestière, elle, dépend des stocks de bois ainsi que de la capacité des forêts à se régénérer après récolte. Les forêts naturelles jouent non seulement un rôle crucial dans la régulation du climat en stockant le carbone dans la biomasse vivante, mais elles contribuent également à réduire l’albédo de surface et donc l’augmentation des températures, en absorbant une large part du rayonnement solaire. L’étude du compromis entre stockage de carbone et réduction de l’albédo après plantation aiderait la prise de décision au sein de l’industrie, particulièrement pour les forêts boréales.
Approche:
Premièrement, nous comparerons deux approches de modélisation pour prioriser les sites de conservation: l’approche par point chaud (hot spot), basée sur la concordance spatiale des SÉ, et la Planification systématique de la conservation, qui repose plutôt sur la complémentarité des sites. Nous estimerons les coûts (aire et nombre de sites sélectionnés dans les réseaux de conservation et pertes associées en potentiel d’extraction de ressources) et les bénéfices (atteinte des cibles de conservation) pour les deux approches. Deuxièmement, nous mesurerons les ratios coûts/bénéfices de plantations à la suite de la récolte de bois. Des scénarios de plantation seront évalués pour des espèces de conifères à feuilles persistantes (Picea glauca), de conifères décidus (Larix laricina), et de décidus à feuilles larges (Betula alleghaniensis), notamment en tenant compte de leur effet sur l’albédo et la régulation du climat. Troisièmement, nous évaluerons le coût associé aux délais dans la planification de la conservation des SÉ sous différents scénarios de développement industriel futur. Les procédures de sélection de sites et d’aménagement du paysage seront réalisées avec des programmes tels que Marxan, Woodstock et Landis.
Profil:
Les personnes désirant soumettre leur candidature doivent détenir une maîtrise dans le domaine de l’écologie, de la biologie, de l’environnement, de la géographie, des ressources naturelles ou dans un domaine connexe et avoir de bonnes connaissances ou un intérêt pour la conservation, notamment en ce qui a trait aux aspects des SÉ et de la planification systématique. Une expérience en publication scientifique serait un grand atout. Le candidat ou la candidate doit posséder de bonnes aptitudes en gestion de données, en SIG et en rédaction scientifique, en plus d’avoir une bonne capacité à collaborer avec les membres de l’équipe et les partenaires.
ResNet:
Ce projet fait partie d’un réseau pancanadien appelé ResNet, soutenu par le programme de réseaux stratégiques du CRSNG. Celui-ci rassemble 26 chercheuses et chercheurs, 11 universités, 30 collaborateurs et 17 organisations partenaires afin d’aborder des questions importantes au sujet de la gestion et du futur des paysages exploités et des SÉ critiques qu’ils fournissent. Le ou la candidate aura l’occasion d’interagir avec ces personnes à l’occasion de rencontres et d’ateliers.
Pour soumettre une candidature, merci d’envoyer une lettre de motivation décrivant votre expérience en recherche, vos intérêts et vos qualifications, ainsi qu’un CV et le contact d’au moins trois références à monique.poulin@fsaa.ulaval.ca.
Date limite pour les soumissions: L’offre reste ouverte jusqu’à ce qu’elle soit comblée. Seules les personnes retenues seront contactées.
************************************************************************
PhD Position in the field of Conservation of Ecosystem Services and Landscape Planning
Département de phytologie, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
Start Date: January, May or September 2020
Salary: $20,000/year + possibility to get $16,000 for the entire duration of studies from academic support funds if objectives are completed on time
Duration: 4 years
Location: Based at Laval University, Québec city
Supervisors: Dr Monique Poulin (ULaval), Dr. Stephanie Pellerin (Univ. of Montreal), Dr. Jerome Cimon-Morin (Ministry of Forests, Fauna and Parks, Qc).
Goal:
We are seeking an exceptional PhD candidate to conduct research on conservation of ecosystem services (ES) and landscape planning. The project will be conducted in peatlands and forests of the Côte-Nord region, that will be used as model systems to develop our knowledge on best management strategies for achieving sustainability in Québec’s human-dominated landscapes. We will address the general question of how to set conservation and restoration priorities without impeding economic development.
Research context:
The Côte-Nord region is dominated by forests and wetlands, while forestry and peat extraction are main economic pillars.The peat industry is dependent on good-quality peat, which has proved to be virtually irreplaceable as a growing substrate for horticultural products. This industry has developed basic criteria for selecting harvesting sites in accordance with socio-environmental concerns such as social acceptability and rarity of specific habitats, but lacks tools to integrate multiple ecosystem services. This industry is also in need of reliable methods to consider trade-offs between conservation and development to ensure the lowest possible environmental footprint regionally. The forest industry is dependent on actual wood stock as well as on the capacity of forests to regenerate after harvesting. Natural forests play crucial roles in climate regulation by stocking carbon through live biomass, but also contribute to reducing surface albedo and thus to increasing temperatures by absorbing a large part of sun radiance. Studying trade-offs between carbon stocking and reduced albedo after tree plantations would help decision making within this industry, particularly for northern forests.
Approach:
We will first compare two modelling approaches to prioritize conservation sites: the hot spot approach, based on spatial concordance of ES, and the Systematic Conservation Planning approach, which focuses rather on site complementarity. We will estimate costs (area and number of sites selected in conservation networks and associated losses of resources extraction potential) and benefits (conservation targets achieved) for both approaches. Second, we will assess the cost/benefits ratios of plantations after tree harvesting. Plantation scenarios will be assessed for evergreen coniferous (Picea glauca), deciduous coniferous (Larix laricina), and deciduous broad leaf species (Betula alleghaniensis), notably in regard to their effect on albedo and thereby on climate regulation. Third, we will evaluate the cost of postponing ES conservation planning under different scenarios of future industrial development. Site selection procedures and landscape planning will be performed using programs such as Marxan, Woodstock and Landis.
Profile:
Applicants must have completed a Master in the field of Ecology, Biology, Geography, Natural Resources, or a related field and have good knowledge or interest in biological conservation, notably on aspects related to ecosystem services and systematic conservation planning. Experience with scientific publications would be a great advantage. Speaking and reading French will be considered as a great asset as the candidate will integrate a French speaking team. At least he (she) should be ready to learn the basics of French. He (or she) should have good data management, GIS, and scientific writing skills. The candidate should have strong aptitudes for collaboration with other team members and partners.
ResNet
The project is part of a pan-Canadian network called ResNet, supported by the NSERC strategic network program. This network involves 26 researchers, 11 universities, 30 collaborators and 17 partner organizations to address important questions about the management and future of Canada’s working landscapes and the critical ecosystem services they provide. The candidate will interact with these people through workshops and meetings.
To apply, please send a cover letter describing your research background, interests, and qualifications; plus a curriculum vitae and contact information for at least three references to monique.poulin@fsaa.ulaval.ca.
Application deadline: Open until filled. Only short-listed candidates will be notified.
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BennettLab Letter to Prospective Students
Photo: Alex Tran
My lab works collaboratively on projects related to understanding the ecology behind ecosystem services management. Ecosystem services such as food, water, soil formation, and erosion control reflect the way in which societies extract resources from the environment. Despite their importance, management of most ecosystem services is poorly understood because it lies in a gray area between natural and social sciences. Many environmental crises, policy debates, and uncertainties in ecosystem management are related to lack of fundamental, empirically-grounded, theoretically consistent information about ecosystem services.
We employ a combination of fieldwork, multi-scale spatial analysis, and modeling to address questions about the provision, use, and management of ecosystem services. To learn more about the work done in my lab, check out the rest of our website. You will find descriptions of my current research interests as well as a list of recent publications, pages for the various students and postdocs involved in the lab, and links to information about graduate school at McGill. The NRS home page and the MSE graduate option page also provide much information relevant to prospective applicants.
I believe that graduate training is one of the most important tasks of a professor, and I tend to invest a lot of time and energy in my students. I am thus very selective in choosing students. I work hard to provide my students with mentoring and advice, space to work, equipment, funding, connections to the broader world of ecology, and a positive lab community. In turn, I expect my students to take an active role in their education and to work hard to do the best work they can do and to make a contribution to ecology, to the lab, and to society. While I spend considerable time with my students, I do not assign topics or projects. Instead, I plan to invest a considerable amount of time helping each student discover their interest and develop their own research questions. While the independent development of a research question can be quite stressful for some students, my opinion is that it is well worth it for the ownership students feel in their projects as a result.
In making decisions about whether to take on a graduate student, I look primarily at three things: the quality and interests of the applicant, the availability of funding, and the current number of students in the lab. In a student, I'm looking for research experience, publications in scientific journals, good grades, passion for science (and life!), and a strong interest in the work we do in the lab. It is not necessary to have all of these, but it helps to have at least a few.
If you are interested in being a student in my lab, please email me a short note introducing yourself, including your CV and an unofficial copy of your academic transcripts (to elena.bennett@mcgill.ca). It helps if you can be fairly specific concerning how your interests overlap mine and what you would be interested in working on during your time at McGill. I look forward to hearing from you!
--Elena
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
KEY INFORMATION
Departmental Deadlines for Application:
Canadian residents and citizens:
Funding sources:
For Canadians and Permanent Residents:
We employ a combination of fieldwork, multi-scale spatial analysis, and modeling to address questions about the provision, use, and management of ecosystem services. To learn more about the work done in my lab, check out the rest of our website. You will find descriptions of my current research interests as well as a list of recent publications, pages for the various students and postdocs involved in the lab, and links to information about graduate school at McGill. The NRS home page and the MSE graduate option page also provide much information relevant to prospective applicants.
I believe that graduate training is one of the most important tasks of a professor, and I tend to invest a lot of time and energy in my students. I am thus very selective in choosing students. I work hard to provide my students with mentoring and advice, space to work, equipment, funding, connections to the broader world of ecology, and a positive lab community. In turn, I expect my students to take an active role in their education and to work hard to do the best work they can do and to make a contribution to ecology, to the lab, and to society. While I spend considerable time with my students, I do not assign topics or projects. Instead, I plan to invest a considerable amount of time helping each student discover their interest and develop their own research questions. While the independent development of a research question can be quite stressful for some students, my opinion is that it is well worth it for the ownership students feel in their projects as a result.
In making decisions about whether to take on a graduate student, I look primarily at three things: the quality and interests of the applicant, the availability of funding, and the current number of students in the lab. In a student, I'm looking for research experience, publications in scientific journals, good grades, passion for science (and life!), and a strong interest in the work we do in the lab. It is not necessary to have all of these, but it helps to have at least a few.
If you are interested in being a student in my lab, please email me a short note introducing yourself, including your CV and an unofficial copy of your academic transcripts (to elena.bennett@mcgill.ca). It helps if you can be fairly specific concerning how your interests overlap mine and what you would be interested in working on during your time at McGill. I look forward to hearing from you!
--Elena
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KEY INFORMATION
Departmental Deadlines for Application:
Canadian residents and citizens:
- March 15th for September registration
- October 15th for January registration
- January 15th for September registration
- August 15th for January registration
Funding sources:
For Canadians and Permanent Residents:
- FQRNT funding: http://www.fqrnt.gouv.qc.ca/nateq/bourses/
- NSERC funding: http://www.nserc.ca/index.htm
- Fellowships: http://www.mcgill.ca/gps/postdocs/fellowships
Interested students should also look at the following web-sites for information about graduate school at McGill:
http://www.mcgill.ca/nrs/
http://www.mcgill.ca/nrs/graduate/
http://www.mcgill.ca/mse
http://www.mcgill.ca/mse/programs/envroption/