M.Sc. opportunity in marine ecophysiology (Anticipated start date: September, 2023)
We are currently accepting applications for a M.Sc. student in the Filgueira Lab to work on the effects of ocean alkalization on the ecophysiology and behaviour of marine bivalves.
Project description
Hydroxide ion, generated as a by-product of a novel process of hydrogen generation, can be used to increase the ocean’s ability to take up and store atmospheric CO2 in the form of dissolved bicarbonate. This alkalinity addition mimics the natural geochemical weathering reactions that have created the ocean’s massive reservoir of bicarbonate and carbonate ions and can potentially benefit organisms that are vulnerable to ocean acidification, including commercially important shellfish. However, the effects of alkalinity addition on the biological traits of these organisms are not well understood.
In collaboration with Planetary Technologies and with support of two major philanthropic foundations (Climateworks and Thistledown) and the National Science and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), we are seeking a highly motivated M.Sc. candidate to study the effects of alkalinity addition on marine bivalve behaviour (valve gaping) and ecophysiology (feeding, respiration, growth, survival etc.).
The successful candidate will be primarily based at Dalhousie University and will be part of a highly interdisciplinary team working on chemical, physical, and biological oceanography, and animal (bivalve) physiology, with both national and international collaborators from academia, industry, and government. The candidate will also have the chance to visit and interact with the L’Etang Ruisseau Bar oyster hatchery in northern New Brunswick and will have the opportunity to network with leading industry partners in ocean-based carbon removal technologies.
The candidate will gain strong skills in experimental biology and working with cutting-edge technologies and methodologies (e.g., biosensors and high-frequency biomonitoring tools). In addition to training, the candidate will participate in regular workshops offered by team-members, covering topics such as planetary carbon cycle; algal and animal physiology; marine robotics; sensor design and operation; negative emission technologies; coastal modelling; Canada’s hydrogen economy, and career-related topics including entrepreneurship and business development practices.
Our research team is diverse and international, and we are committed to increasing this diversity as we recognize this strengthens the research environment and maximizes potential. We are therefore committed to a fair hiring process and employment equity practices that are consistent with Canada’s Employment Equity Act. We encourage applications from Indigenous persons, persons with a disability, racially visible persons, women, persons of a minority sexual orientation and/or gender identity, and all candidates who would contribute to the diversity of our community. International applicants are also encouraged to apply.
To apply, or if you have any questions, please contact Ramon Filgueira (ramon.filgueira@dal.ca) and Jeff Clements (jeffery.clements@dfo-mpo.gc.ca).
We are currently accepting applications for a M.Sc. student in the Filgueira Lab to work on the effects of ocean alkalization on the ecophysiology and behaviour of marine bivalves.
Project description
Hydroxide ion, generated as a by-product of a novel process of hydrogen generation, can be used to increase the ocean’s ability to take up and store atmospheric CO2 in the form of dissolved bicarbonate. This alkalinity addition mimics the natural geochemical weathering reactions that have created the ocean’s massive reservoir of bicarbonate and carbonate ions and can potentially benefit organisms that are vulnerable to ocean acidification, including commercially important shellfish. However, the effects of alkalinity addition on the biological traits of these organisms are not well understood.
In collaboration with Planetary Technologies and with support of two major philanthropic foundations (Climateworks and Thistledown) and the National Science and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), we are seeking a highly motivated M.Sc. candidate to study the effects of alkalinity addition on marine bivalve behaviour (valve gaping) and ecophysiology (feeding, respiration, growth, survival etc.).
The successful candidate will be primarily based at Dalhousie University and will be part of a highly interdisciplinary team working on chemical, physical, and biological oceanography, and animal (bivalve) physiology, with both national and international collaborators from academia, industry, and government. The candidate will also have the chance to visit and interact with the L’Etang Ruisseau Bar oyster hatchery in northern New Brunswick and will have the opportunity to network with leading industry partners in ocean-based carbon removal technologies.
The candidate will gain strong skills in experimental biology and working with cutting-edge technologies and methodologies (e.g., biosensors and high-frequency biomonitoring tools). In addition to training, the candidate will participate in regular workshops offered by team-members, covering topics such as planetary carbon cycle; algal and animal physiology; marine robotics; sensor design and operation; negative emission technologies; coastal modelling; Canada’s hydrogen economy, and career-related topics including entrepreneurship and business development practices.
Our research team is diverse and international, and we are committed to increasing this diversity as we recognize this strengthens the research environment and maximizes potential. We are therefore committed to a fair hiring process and employment equity practices that are consistent with Canada’s Employment Equity Act. We encourage applications from Indigenous persons, persons with a disability, racially visible persons, women, persons of a minority sexual orientation and/or gender identity, and all candidates who would contribute to the diversity of our community. International applicants are also encouraged to apply.
To apply, or if you have any questions, please contact Ramon Filgueira (ramon.filgueira@dal.ca) and Jeff Clements (jeffery.clements@dfo-mpo.gc.ca).
