Project description
Salt marshes experience erosive forces regularly, especially waves, resulting in the loss of sediment from the surface and/or edge. In terrestrial settings, vegetation – especially the below-ground biomass – has been shown to be crucial in reducing soil erosion rates, however much less is known about the importance of roots on saltmarsh stability. The erosion reducing effect has been, in part, attributed to the ability of fine roots to aid in the formation of soil aggregates. Fungal hyphae has also been implied.
This PhD project will study the importance of fine roots and fungal hyphae in aggregate stability of saltmarsh soils, which could be explored at different scales ranging from the aggregate, to soil cores in wave flumes of various sizes, and in situ in the field.
Start date
As soon as possible
Research supervision
Anne Ola (supervisor) and Jacob Stolle (co-supervisor), Professors, INRS
Study program
PhD in Earth or Water Science (program details in French only), Eau Terre Environnement Research Centre, INRS
Funding
4-year scholarship of $25,000/year, with possibility to apply for top-up scholarships.
Required qualifications
MSc degree in Soil Science, Plant Science, Marine Biology, Environmental Sciences, or related fields with relevant expertise and an excellent academic record.
How to apply
Please send use the form below to send your application to Professor Ola including the following documents in PDF: 1) motivation letter, 2) CV, 3) copy of your university transcripts, 4) and contact information for two referees. Application review starts on Nov 18th.
We encourage applications from women, visible minorities, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.