Information for Prospective Students & Postdocs
The Biogeochemistry Research Group at the University of Toronto welcomes self-motivated and outstanding undergraduate and graduate students as well as postdoctoral researchers. Students and postdoctoral researchers in the Group are recruited through the Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences at the University of Toronto Scarborough and the Earth Sciences Department at the University of Toronto St. George. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and respectful research environment where people of diverse backgrounds, identities, experiences, and perspectives are welcomed, supported, and empowered to thrive.
One Postdoctoral Fellow and One PhD Student Positions in the MAGIEC Project: Blue Carbon Dynamics
MAGIEC Project
The Biogeochemistry Research Group at the University of Toronto, led by Prof. Maria Dittrich, is seeking outstanding candidates for:
One Postdoctoral Fellow (2-year position) and One PhD Student
Both positions are part of the newly funded international project: MAGIEC – Mudflats Across Gradients of Human Impact and Environmental Extreme: Blue Carbon Dynamics.
MAGIEC is an international collaboration (Canada, Ireland and Poland) investigating how environmental extremes and human activities influence carbon cycling, greenhouse gas dynamics, microbial processes, mineral interactions, and ecosystem functioning in coastal mudflat environments. The project integrates geochemistry, geomicrobiology, ecology, environmental monitoring, and interdisciplinary approaches to support science-based coastal management.
Postdoctoral Fellow Position (Winter/Summer/Fall 2027)
Research Focus
The successful candidate will contribute to the development of innovative research on blue carbon processes in coastal ecosystems, with opportunities to:
- Investigate sediment biogeochemistry and carbon sequestration processes
- Study microbial and geochemical controls on carbon cycling
- Analyze greenhouse gas fluxes and environmental drivers
- Conduct field and laboratory experiments
- Collaborate with international partners across Europe and Canada
- Publish in leading international journals
- Mentor graduate and undergraduate students
Qualifications
- A PhD in Environmental Science, Earth Sciences, Marine Science, Geochemistry, Microbiology, Ecology, or a related discipline
- Demonstrated publication record
- Experience with field and laboratory research; strong quantitative and analytical skills
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Ability to work effectively within an interdisciplinary and international team
Term
- Initial appointment: 12 months
- Renewable for an additional 12 months contingent upon performance and project needs
PhD Position (Fall 2027)
Research Focus
The PhD project will investigate processes controlling blue carbon storage and cycling in coastal mudflat environments. Potential topics include:
- Sediment-water interface processes
- Microbial ecology and geomicrobiology
- Carbon sequestration mechanisms
- Mineral-organic interactions
- Environmental DNA and ecosystem monitoring
- Coastal ecosystem responses to environmental change
The student will work closely with an international consortium and will have opportunities for international collaboration, conference participation, and interdisciplinary training.
Qualifications
- An MSc degree in Environmental Science, Earth Sciences, Biology, Marine Science, Geochemistry, or a related field
- Strong academic record and excellent communication skills
- Interest in interdisciplinary research
- Experience with laboratory and/or field techniques is an asset
Working Environment
The successful candidates will join the Biogeochemistry Research Group at the University of Toronto, one of Canada's leading research-intensive universities.
Team members will benefit from:
- An inclusive, collaborative, and international research environment
- Access to state-of-the-art analytical facilities
- Opportunities for international fieldwork and collaboration
- Professional development and networking opportunities
- Participation in a large international blue carbon research consortium
Application Information
Please submit the following in one PDF file:
- Cover letter describing research interests and fit for the position
- Curriculum Vitae
- Copies of academic transcripts (PhD applicants)
- Contact information for three references
- One representative publication (Postdoctoral applicants)
Application Deadline
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the positions are filled.
Future Opportunities
We welcome inquiries from motivated students and researchers interested in the research activities of the Biogeochemistry Research Group.
Future PhD Opportunities
PhD Research Opportunities
Future PhD opportunities may involve interdisciplinary research in environmental biogeochemistry, microbial processes, aquatic ecosystems, nutrient cycling, and environmental change.
Specific research projects, funding availability, eligibility requirements, and application deadlines will be posted when positions become available.
Future MSc Opportunities
Graduate Research Opportunities
Future MSc research opportunities may become available in areas related to environmental biogeochemistry, microbial ecology, aquatic systems, nutrient cycling, and environmental processes.
Details regarding specific projects, funding, eligibility, and application procedures will be provided when positions become available.
Undergraduate Research Opportunities
Research Experience
Undergraduate students interested in gaining research experience may be considered for available research projects, subject to supervision capacity and project availability.
Opportunities may include laboratory research, field research, data analysis, and other activities associated with ongoing projects in the Biogeochemistry Research Group.
Future Postdoctoral Opportunities
Research Opportunities
Future postdoctoral opportunities may become available through newly funded research projects and collaborations.
Positions will be posted on this page when funding and research opportunities become available.
Prospective Students – General Information
Before Contacting the Lab
Prospective students are encouraged to review the research areas, current projects, and publications of the Biogeochemistry Research Group before contacting the lab.
Please indicate your academic background, research interests, relevant experience, and the type of opportunity you are seeking.