MSc Opportunity: Aquatic biogeochemistry of Lake Superior

Algoma University
Sault Ste Marie, Ontario

Closing Date: Feb 6, 2026

Description

The St. Marys River water quality sampling station is a new facility built in partnership with Environment and Climate Change Canada and Algoma University and located on a pier adjacent the St. Marys River on the site of the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre. Water is drawn from two submersible pumps located approximately 200 m offshore in the St Marys river, the primary outflow from Lake Superior. Water quality observations will be made throughout the year, a distinct advantage over observations made from vessels or buoys, which rarely operate during winter. River water is drawn at timed intervals into the station through sensors contained in watertight housings and subsampled by an autosampler. The MSc student will assist in the creation of sampling protocols and operation of the water sampling station (e.g., sample processing, instrumentation maintenance and calibration). The masters thesis will focus on some aspect of limnological analysis that can be used to address questions related to how climate change is affecting water quality of Lake Superior including inter-seasonal differences in water quality. The student must be able to matriculate in the Master of Science in Biology program at Algoma University and will receive a stipend of $24,500 per annum for a maximum of two years. Note that US citizens pay the same tuition as Canadians at Algoma University.
 

Qualifications

Bachelor of science degree in any of the following areas: biology, chemistry, environmental science, geology or related fields in science or engineering.

How to Apply

Send a one-page cover letter describing your strengths and interests and why you believe this position is the right fit for you, a CV, an unofficial transcript, and two personal references as a single PDF file. 

Contact

Michael Twiss
Algoma University
Phone: (705) 949-2301
michael.twiss@algomau.ca