University: Polytechnique Montréal
Country: Canada
Field: Civil engineering
Position Description:
Open PhD Position
CLIMATE-SOIL-MICROBE-PLANT INTERACTION FOR CARBON CAPTURE BY BOREAL AFFORESTATION
POSITION OVERVIEW:
We are in search of a highly motivated PhD student to participate in an interdisciplinary research project focused on the development of physical model testing and field measurements. The project aims to investigate the impact of tree canopies, bryophyte and lichen cover, and microbial activities on the energy balance of the ground surface in the context of climate change. One of the major challenges in modeling permafrost with regards to thermo-hydro-bio-geochemical aspects is incorporating realistic boundary conditions at the ground surface. The primary objective of this project is to assess the feasibility of using Boreal Afforestation in Canada for Carbon Capture and its potential in contributing to the achievement of the net-zero emission target by 2050. Canada has considerable potential for afforestation solutions, but uncertainties exist regarding the achievable vegetation cover under current and evolving climate conditions, as well as the location-dependent coverage. Preliminary estimates suggest that significant greenhouse gas capture can be accomplished by facilitating the natural process of afforestation in a warming Arctic. This project aims to study and reduce uncertainties at a detailed level, enabling the gradual advancement of the tree-line in the northern Boreal Forest and Tundra regions. The project will be carried out at Polytechnique Montréal under the supervision of Professor Pooneh Maghoul and in collaboration with the University of Waterloo, McGill University, Université de Sherbrooke, and the First Nations University of Canada.
QUALIFICATIONS:
• Proficiency in physical modeling and field measurements in geotechnical engineering.
• Expertise in climate geotechnics, specifically in atmosphere-soil-root interaction.
• Knowledge and experience in soil biology and biochemistry are desirable.
• Strong track record of research-based publications in the above-mentioned fields.
• Excellent technical writing skills for scientific publications.
• Strong communication skills in English (international applicants must have a minimum IELTS score of 7.0).
• Exceptional problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and possess self-motivation to achieve goals.
• Enthusiasm for working in an interdisciplinary environment.
HOW TO APPLY:
Interested applicants should submit their applications to Prof. Pooneh Maghoul (pooneh.maghoul@polymtl.ca) and Dr. Sophie Jung (sophie.jung@polymtl.ca) with the subject line "PhD Application – Climate Geotechnics."
A complete application must include:
• A cover letter providing a brief description of research interests related to the above topics, as well as a motivation explaining why the applicant's expertise and background are suitable for the position.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) containing a comprehensive list of international scientific publications.
• Copies of transcripts (BSc & MSc).
• Contact information for two references.
EQUAL ACCESS EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM:
Our institutes are dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion. Through our Equal Access Employment Program, we encourage applications from women, Aboriginal people, visible and ethnic minorities, and individuals with disabilities. We will ensure confidentiality and make necessary adaptations to our recruitment processes to accommodate the specific needs of applicants with disabilities. We also welcome applications from candidates of all orientations and sexual identities.
