Masters Student in Microbial Ecology and Evolution

Masters Student in Microbial Ecology and Evolution

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The Ecosystems and Global Change Group () at Trent University jointly led by Prof Andrew Tanentzap (Canada Research Chair in Climate Change and Northern Ecosystems) and Dr Erik Emilson (Research Scientist, Canadian Forest Service sector of Natural Resources Canada, (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). wet.github.io) is recruiting a Masters student for September 2026 at the intersect of ecosystem ecology, microbiology, and computational modelling.

This is a full-time, on-site role for a Masters Student at Trent University, located in Peterborough, ON.

The role involves undertaking research in environmental microbial ecology and evolution structured around two main projects. In the first project, the student will characterise the functioning of microbial communities in a long‑term study lake using state‑of‑the‑art long read and single‑cell DNA/RNA sequencing. An emphasis will be on characterising the rare biosphere. In the second project, the student will implement existing AI workflows (e.g. )

to forecast changes in microbial composition that can serve as early warning signals of shifts in ecosystem functioning, with a focus on greenhouse gas emissions. The projects will involve a mix of field, lab, and computational work with the potential to transition to PhD study depending on interest and progress.

The successful applicant will have undertaken an undergraduate thesis project in microbial ecology, mathematical biology, or a related field. They will have experience with molecular biology techniques (DNA extraction, sequencing library preparation) and coding, not limited to bioinformatics, and a proven ability to work collaboratively within a team and independently.

Our research training environment features some of the most advanced environmental research infrastructure in Canada, including access to a Fourier transform – ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer, a long-read and single-cell sequencing facility, radioisotope and stable isotope labs, and eddy covariance systems, with extensive support for field research (ATVs, snowmobiles, autonomous surface vessel). As our team partners with government scientists, you will have a unique opportunity to influence environmental policy and make connections outside of academia to bolster your career.

All postgraduate students are guaranteed at least $28k/year, considerably more than minimum stipends erborough is one of the most affordable and desirable places to live in Ontario, offering the best of urban (70 mins to Toronto) and rural living all under 30 minutes to the heart of the Kawarthas that boasts endless lakes and forests to explore. Our group supports flexible working arrangements and supports applicants from diverse backgrounds as we strive to build a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplace.

International applicants will be supported in applying for a Study Permit.

Please email Andrew Tanentzap () with a CV and brief cover letter describing what you hope to get out of working with us, how your research interests are a good fit to our group, and how your past experiences make you suitable for this position. Only those applicants that are short-listed will be contacted. Applicants that are encouraged to enrol will be required to apply to Trent’s Environmental & Life Sciences (ENLS) Graduate Program ().

The absolute Final date to receive applications to ENLS for Sept 2026 entry is the 1 Feb 2026
. Therefore,
early contact is required to ensure that you have enough time to prepare a competitive application.

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