Jobs:Job-00015

From CSDMS
PhD Position - Cold regions numerical groundwater modeling
McGill University (Montreal, Canada) or Dalhousie University (Halifax, Canada), , Canada
Start reviewing process: 15 November 2019


Location: McGill University (Montreal, Canada) or Dalhousie University (Halifax, Canada)

Project start: May 2020 or earlier.

The Research Network: The Catchment Transport and CryoHydrology Network (CatchNet) is an international research network involving industry partners and university researchers. CatchNet is seeking candidates for a fully funded PhD position in Canada involving archetype and site-specific numerical modeling of cold region hydrology, including modeling of groundwater - surface water interactions in permafrost environments, sub-permafrost hydrogeologic systems, and coupled solute transport.

CatchNet aims to advance our understanding of hydrological and hydrogeological processes and transport for a range of cold-climate conditions in the context of long-term, deep geological storage of spent nuclear fuel. The research is carried out in collaboration with the University of Copenhagen and the nuclear waste management organizations in Sweden (SKB), Canada (NWMO), The Netherlands (COVRA), UK (NDA), and Germany (GRS). The positions offer a strong connection to industry through regular meetings and a mentorship programme with CatchNet industry partners.


The project: The PhD project will focus on hydrology during permafrost transitional periods at long time scales. The research will focus on groundwater – surface water interactions over a range of climatic conditions resulting in transitions from permafrost-free to continuous permafrost environments. Process-based information from generic modeling will be used to inform site selection for more detailed site-specific, data-driven modeling.

The position is offered jointly at McGill University and Dalhousie University. We are looking for candidates with backgrounds in geosciences or engineering and with interest in numerical modeling, permafrost science/engineering, programming, and hydrology or hydrogeology. Candidates should enjoy working collaboratively in a multi-sector, multi-disciplinary environment and should be interested in engaging with international colleagues within CatchNet on the broader themes and implications of the research.

The envisioned starting date for the positions is spring 2020 or earlier. To apply for this position, please send a CV and cover letter summarizing your relevant qualifications and interest in the project to both Dr. Jeffery McKenzie (jeffrey.mckenzie@mcgill.ca) and Dr. Barret Kurylyk (barret.kurylyk@dal.ca). Please write “CatchNet PhD” as the subject line in your email. Applications will ideally be submitted by November 15, 2019, but we will continue to review applications until the position is filled. Only successful applicants will be contacted.

Of interest for:
  • Hydrology Focus Research Group