PhD Opportunity in Forest Quantitative Genetics and Climate Adaptation Lakehead University – Faculty of Natural Resources Management

The Forest Genetics Lab of Dr. Ashley Thomson is recruiting a PhD student to study adaptive variation and phenotypic traits in boreal black spruce in the context of climate change and assisted migration. The position is part of a broader collaboration with the Ontario Forest Research Institute, co-supervised by Dr. Pengxin Lu.

This research focuses on analyzing data from large-scale, long-term provenance trials to understand:

  • How traits like growth and survival vary across climate gradients;
  • Which populations are best suited for future climate conditions;
  • How phenotypic data can be used to inform seed transfer policy and assisted migration planning.

Key Focus Areas:

  • Quantitative analysis of field data on growth, survival, and climatic response.
  • Modelling population × environment interactions using existing common garden networks.
  • Informing policy by identifying populations at risk and those suited to future climates.

Required Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree in forestry, ecology, plant science, quantitative biology, or a related field.
  • Experience working with field-based trait data (e.g., height, survival, yield, climate response).
  • Strong quantitative skills and statistical literacy (e.g., R, mixed models, spatial/environmental data).
  • Interest in applied forest research, climate adaptation, and science-to-policy translation.

Note: Experience with molecular genetics or genomics is welcome but not required. This project focuses on quantitative genetics and ecological applications using field-based data.

Preferred start: September 2025

This fully funded position includes a yearly stipend and may include a graduate teaching assistantship.

Our group offers a collaborative and supportive research environment and works with partners in government, industry, and academia across Canada. We strongly value and promote equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Learn more: https://www.lakeheadu.ca/users/T/athomson

To apply, please email Dr. Ashley Thomson (athomson@lakeheadu.ca) with:

  1. A one-page cover letter describing your background and research interests
  2. CV (including relevant publications or research experience)
  3. Two academic references

Review of applications will begin April 22nd, 2025, and continue until the position is filled.