The CONIFER Lab at the Canadian Forest Service – Atlantic Forestry Centre (AFC) is seeking an MSc student with interests in forest ecology, entomology and climate change to fill a 2-year position beginning September 2024 (latest January 2024). The successful candidate will be funded through the Boreal Ecosystem and Agricultural Sciences (BEAS) program at Memorial University – Grenfell campus. The student will be based at the AFC research laboratory in Corner Brook, NL, located in the university’s Forestry Building. Although research will be predominantly conduced at AFC, the student will be required to meet all university requirements for degree completion.
Research will focus on the spruce budworm, a highly destructive pest of eastern boreal forests and currently undergoing an outbreak on the island of Newfoundland. The aim of the program is to investigate insect responses to extreme spring weather events (i.e., cold snaps), with the goal of providing knowledge to stakeholders and end users (e.g., federal and provincial land managers, industry and the public at large). The research will be predominantly lab-based, although there will be a possibility for a field component – program specifics will be co-developed by the student and PI. Fundamental response metrics include survival, phenology, body condition and biochemistry, with additional possibilities based on student interest.
The successful applicant will be self-motivated and creative, with strong communication skills (written and oral) for diverse audiences. They should also be highly capable with regards to time management, problem solving, and critical thinking. Previous experience with experimental design and data analysis would also be an asset. As a member of the CONIFER lab, the successful candidate will be joining a federal government organization, where dedication to inclusion, diversity and equity is essential to our core values. Interested applicants can apply via email to Dr. Eric Moise (eric.moise@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca). Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Please include brief cover letter, CV and 2 reference contacts.
