Research assistant – casual position

Start date: May 2025

Application deadline: Will remain until filled

Supervisor: Dr. Scott Ketcheson

Faculty: Faculty of Science and Technology

Hydrology in the Boreal Forest

Overview

Multiple upcoming fully funded opportunities are available for Graduate students (both PhD and MSc) and Undergraduate students to work on one of several research projects broadly related to hydrology and remote sensing in the Boreal forest. These include working within natural wetlands and/or wetlands altered by linear disturbances (e.g., mineral roads, seismic lines) around Fort McMurray, AB. The successful candidates will work with Dr. Scott Ketcheson (at the University of Calgary or University of Waterloo); interested applicants can read more about his research here: https://www.auhydrology.com.

Skills and Interests

Ideal candidates will be either enrolled in or a recent graduate of an Environmental Sciences program, with an interest in environmental sciences, water and the outdoors. Experience conducting fieldwork and relevant coursework in Hydrology are preferable. Daily tasks may include, but are not limited to: water table measurements, soil/water sampling, ET fluxing, data entry, sample preparation, equipment maintenance, and data analysis related to remote sensing. All work will be done in collaboration with graduate students and technicians already involved in the project. Possession of a full drivers license, the ability to drive a truck on muddy roads, and the ability to hike multiple km on uneven terrain while carrying supplies are necessary for this position. Familiarity with hydrology and/or meteorology concepts, Microsoft Excel, and basic construction tools/safety would be considered assets. However, we are also willing to train the right candidate with strong organizational and communication skills who is comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions. Applicants must have a strong academic background. Details around the specific project will be discussed with interested individuals based on skillset, fit and individual preference.

Interested individuals are encouraged to reach out to Dr. Scott Ketcheson at sketcheson@athabascau.ca, Jennifer Attema at jattema@athabascau.ca or Lelia Weiland at lweiland@athabascau.ca to discuss specific opportunities.

Athabasca University and the research team are committed and seek to support equity in employment and research opportunities. We strongly encourage applications from Indigenous people, people of colour, people with disabilities, 2SLGBTQ+ people, women, and other historically marginalized groups. Applicants are welcome, but not required, to self‐identify.

Assistantship