We invite applications for two graduate positions beginning in 2025 to advance detection, quantification, and characterization of microbial populations relevant for wastewater treatment and a used nuclear fuel repository. The research conducted by these new recruits will help understand nitrogen cycling in wastewater treatment system biofilms and predict the stability of a nuclear waste repository based on current design considerations, respectively.
Position 1: MSc or PhD
This graduate student will analyze novel bacteria discovered in water treatment systems with as-yet unknown contributions to nitrification and water treatment. Using metagenomic and metatranscriptomic data available in our lab, we will explore the potential metabolic roles that these bacteria play and develop/test growth media intended to enrich such poorly characterized yet relatively abundant members of engineered water treatment systems.
Position 2: MSc or PhD
This graduate student will analyze the microbiology of bentonite under conditions that mimic a deep geological repository. The student will also be involved in exploring microbial profiles from subsurface water samples, establishing links to groundwater geochemistry and investigating the role of ultra-small bacteria and archaea in these systems.
Although based at the University of Waterloo in the Neufeld laboratory, the graduate students will work closely within a highly interdisciplinary team of researchers from other universities and our industrial partners.
Applicants must have, or expect to soon complete, a degree relevant to the positions. Preference will be given to candidates with strong quantitative skills and demonstrated experience in one or more of the following areas: microbiology, microbial ecology, biogeochemistry, and bioinformatics.
Please submit your application package electronically as a single pdf file to Josh Neufeld (jneufeld@uwaterloo.ca). Your application should mention your motivation for applying to the position, which position you would like to be considered for, a curriculum vitae, and a copy of relevant transcripts (unofficial transcripts will be accepted at the application stage).
Closing date: Applications will be reviewed as they are received. The positions will remain open until filled.