Project description
Natural graphite is listed among Canada’s priority critical minerals. It is a key mineral for the energy transition—particularly for Li-ion batteries, whose value chain is currently expanding in Canada. However, the processes controlling the formation of graphite flakes and the evolution of micro-inclusions that govern their metallurgical quality remain poorly understood.
This project aims to characterize the size, nature, composition, and distribution of micro-inclusions within graphite flakes from two major geological provinces—the Grenville Orogen and the Trans-Hudson Orogen—and to evaluate the role of metamorphism on these features. The work will combine petrography, mineralogy, and advanced geochemistry, including SEM, Raman, XRD, TEM, MicroXRF, LA-ICP-MS, and sulfur isotope analyses. Short visits are planned at Nouveau Monde Graphite (project partner) and at Natural Resources Canada Laboratories in Ottawa. Fieldwork (± 1 week) is also planned. The project includes several collaborators across institutions: Geological Survey of Canada, Nouveau Monde Graphite, Université Laval.
Start date
Summer 2026
Research supervision
Supervision: Antoine Godet, Geological Survey of Canada research scientist
Co-supervision: Renaud Soucy La Roche, INRS Professor
Supervision can be in French or English, depending on the student’s preference.
Study program
The selected candidate must meet the requirements of the INRS Interuniversity PhD program in Earth Sciences (program details in French only)
Study location: Eau Terre Environnement Research Centre, INRS
Funding
Research Affiliate Program (RAP) scholarship for 4 years: $30,000; $32,700; $35,700; $35,700
Required qualifications
Preference will be given to applicants residing in Canada and to Canadian citizens living abroad. We welcome applications from a range of academic backgrounds, including metamorphic geology, economic geology, mineralogy, and geochemistry, with a strong interest in metamorphism, petrography, and analytical work.
The successful candidate must hold an MSc in Earth Sciences and demonstrate scientific curiosity, autonomy, rigour, and an interest in laboratory/analytical work. Experience with one or more of the following methods—SEM, Raman, XRD, TEM, MicroXRF, LA-ICP-MS—is an asset but not required.
To apply
For questions about the project or the study environment, send an email to Antoine Godet or Renaud Soucy La Roche.
To apply, please use the form below and include the following documents in PDF: 1) CV (including a list of scientific contributions/publications), 2) your university transcripts (unofficial copies accepted), 3) a cover letter, and 4) the names and contact information of two referees. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
INRS offers an inclusive, diverse, and respectful research environment. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply, particularly women, members of visible minorities, Indigenous peoples, LGBTQ2+ individuals, persons with disabilities, and people with non-traditional backgrounds.