Project description
The Canadian North is particularly vulnerable to climate change and coastal erosion as communities rely on coastal areas that provide critical access to shipping lanes, traditional hunting grounds and important natural and cultural ecosystem services. The proximity of Northern communities to the coast places critical infrastructure at risk of failure and flooding with the retreating coastlines. In contrast to temperate and tropical coastlines, the erosion of permafrost coastlines is due to both thermal and mechanical stresses acting on the coast through a process known as thermomechanical erosion. Erosion can occur when water accesses new areas of the coast – for example, during a large surge event. The warmer, saline water induces thermal and saline gradients, which can initiate permafrost thaw.
The Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS) are looking for a master’s student to study thermomechanical erosion through physical and numerical modelling. The project is part of a joint program with the University of Québec à Rimouski (UQAR) and the National Research Council of Canada (NRCC) working to improve permafrost modelling in the coastal environment.
Financial support
INRS offers financial support to all its students. However, where possible, applications for external scholarships will still be encouraged.
Programs of study
Master of Science in Water Science or Master of Earth Science
Research supervisor
Expected start date
January 2026
Profile sought
Candidates with knowledge or experience in some or all the following areas are encouraged to apply:
- Degree in hydraulic, geotechnical, or civil engineering as well as geophysics, geography, physics, mathematics or similar field of study.
- Analysis tools such as Matlab, Python, LabView, C++, etc.
- Field survey or instrument installation.
- Numerical or physical modelling in the coastal or river environment.
- Report writing and publication.
- Demonstrated willingness to collaborate.
About the research centre
The Laboratoire d’hydraulique environnementale (http://lhe.ete.inrs.ca/) of the Centre Eau Terre Environnement of INRS was inaugurated in 2011 and funded by INRS, the Ministère des Transports du Québec and Industry Canada. The centerpiece of the laboratory is the large wave flume (120 m × 5 m × 5 m) which is supported by several small-scale flumes. INRS is a research-oriented graduate university located in Quebec City, Canada, just minutes from historic Old Quebec.
Submission of applications
Interested students can submit their application to Professor Jacob Stolle bu e-mail at jacob.stolle@inrs.ca.
The application file must include the following documents
- a letter of motivation describing your experiences and research interests (250-500 words)
- a CV
Do not hesitate to contact Professor Stolle by email if you have any questions about the project or INRS!
Commitment to equity
We encourage applications from people who identify with politically, socially and/or economically marginalized groups. We also encourage applicants to identify themselves in their cover letter or application if they are members of a marginalized community.
We encourage all qualified individuals to apply, especially women, visible and ethnic minorities, Aboriginal people, and people with disabilities. The selection committee will take special circumstances into account when assessing applications. The team will strive to promote a smooth and inclusive integration of the person recruited.