Funded MSc (or PhD) positions in the Ecology of Species Range Margins (Amphibians)

Lakehead University, Thunder Bay

The Ectotherm Ecology and Evolution lab, led by Dr. Adam Algar, at Lakehead University invites applications for a MSc student (PhD applications will also be considered) to start in September 2025. Our research group uses field studies, laboratory experiments, and macroecological and evolutionary modelling to understand the environmental factors and eco-evolutionary processes limiting species distributions, with an emphasis on amphibians. For more information on the lab, visit the website (http://adamalgar.github.io) and Instagram feed (@ectoecoevo).

The successful applicant will have the opportunity to develop their own specific questions and hypotheses in line with the lab’s research themes. However particular areas of interest relate to thermal ecology of tadpoles, including their development, and how it may impact species range limits; the functional ecology of treefrog clinging ability and locomotion in modified boreal environments; and bioacoustics of amphibians in rapidly changing environments. Students interested in more macroecological and macroevolutionary approaches using broad taxonomic groups are also encouraged to apply.

Funding in the form of a teaching assistantship and a stipend top up totalling at least $20,000 per year for two years is available for MSc students. Funding levels for PhD students will surpass this (contact Dr. Algar for more details).

The successful applicant will join a dynamic and inclusive research group (see the website for our inclusivity/values statement) based at Lakehead’s Thunder Bay campus, on the shores of Lake Superior and on the doorstep of the boreal forest. Rapidly changing environments and the presence of many species’ northern range edges make it an exciting area for ecological research.

Experience in geographical or physiological ecology, or herpetology, is not necessary; a diversity of experiences and academic backgrounds may be suitable. The key qualification is curiosity about the natural world and a desire to learn more about the process of scientific discovery.

Informal enquiries can be made to Dr. Adam Algar (aalgar@lakeheadu.ca). Applicants should email an unofficial transcript, CV, contact information for 2 references, and a cover letter to Dr. Algar. Review of applications will begin on December 6 and continue until the position(s) is/are filled. If you are interested in applying after this date, please email first to check if there are still opportunities. Discussions/interviews will take place over Zoom, but other platforms can be accommodated.

Lakehead University is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals including women, racialized persons, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities and other equity-seeking groups. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. However, due to how graduate students are funded, only applications from those who qualify as domestic students (Canadians/permanent residents) can be considered. We recognize that this is not inclusive and hope that the situation can be resolved in future.