Description
The Katzenback Lab is recruiting a MSc or PhD student to investigate the effects of exposure to microplastics
on immune mechanisms of amphibians.
Project Scope: Increased plastic production, use, and disposal has resulted in increased levels of microplastics pollution in freshwater ecosystems. Despite increasing concerns of the potential impact of microplastics exposure on aquatic organisms, few studies have examined the effects of exposure to microplastics on the health status of amphibians. The successful applicant will investigate the effects of whole-lake microplastics exposure on aspects of amphibian immunity and health.
Project Details: The successful applicant will conduct research at the IISD Experimental Lakes Area as part of the highly collaborative pELAstics project (https://rochmanlab.com/thepelastic-project/). In addition to a field component, the researcher will conduct molecular techniques (i.e. RNAseq, RT-qPCR) and bioinformatics analyses of the resulting data in Dr. Katzenback’s laboratory. The specific project will be developed collaboratively to align with the graduate student’s interests. Situated in the Department of Biology (https://uwaterloo.ca/biology/graduate-studies) at the University of Waterloo, the successful applicant will be primarily located in Southern Ontario with annual travel to the Experimental Lakes Area in Ontario.
Starting Date: Jan 1, 2027, or May 1, 2027
Instructions: E-mail Dr. Katzenback (see Contact Information section for email) using the subject line “Microplastics and amphibians” and include: 1) Brief cover letter that outlines your research interests and how they align with the project; 2) Curriculum vitae; 3) Unofficial transcripts; and 4) A sample of your writing, if available. Application deadline: Oct 31, 2026. Applications will be considered as they are received. Due to funding constraints, this position is only open to citizens or permanent residents of Canada.
Academic Environment: The Katzenback Research Group is a collaborative and supportive team of researchers. Trainees are empowered to take a leadership role in their research, are encouraged to engage in professional development and outreach activities, and are supported in these endeavours through both advisor and peer mentorship. Our group strives to be a diverse, equitable, inclusive and collaborative community that supports and empowers each individual to cultivate their potential and achieve their professional goals. We welcome (and encourage) applications from women, Indigenous, Black and other under-represented persons.
Requirements
Essential Qualifications:
1. Successfully completed a thesis-based/Honours BSc (for MSc applicants) or MSc (for PhD applicants)
in biology, biochemistry, biotechnology or a related field prior to the proposed start date.
2. Have meaningful experience in one or more of the following: immunology, molecular biology,
animal/amphibian physiology, and/or bioinformatics (e.g. taken upper year/graduate level classes
and/or labs on these topics, or completed a relevant BSc/MSc thesis, or work experience in these
areas)
3. Be willing to work outdoors at a remote field site, with previous field work experience preferred.
4. Be able to work both independently and collaboratively.
5. Possess strong verbal and written communication skills.
