opportunities

The Wildlife Ecohydrology and Conservation Lab is actively recruiting undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral fellows at the University of Waterloo. Check out our research and publications to learn more about our work.

Dr. Markle is cross appointed in the Department of Geography and Environmental Management and the School of Environment, Resources and Sustainability, and can supervise students in either Department/School.

Please reach out to discuss opportunities: cmarkle (at) uwaterloo.ca

MSc or MES student opportunity: Wildfire and turtle nesting habitat (Sept 2027)

The Wildlife Ecohydrology and Conservation Lab (www.chantelmarkle.ca) is seeking a highly motivated and hardworking individual with an interest in turtle nesting habitat restoration and habitat recovery post-wildfire to undertake a field-based project.

The successful candidate will be supervised by Dr. Markle at the University of Waterloo in the Faculty of Environment. The Master’s position will begin in September 2027, with the candidate hired starting April 2027 to conduct fieldwork.

The project involves restoring nesting habitat burned by wildfire, evaluating use and success of restored habitats, and conducting a landscape-scale assessment of habitat recovery 10 years post-wildfire. The student will have access to historical and contemporary data, in addition to collecting new data over two field seasons.

Funding: This position offers a minimum guaranteed stipend of $25,000.

Qualifications and Requirements:

BSc in Biology or Ecology (or similar degree) with at least an 80% GPA
Knowledge of turtle ecology and conservation
Familiarity with spatial ecology, R statistical coding, and GIS software
Experience with vegetation surveys and following detailed protocols
Physically capable of working safely outdoors in all weather conditions
Organized with excellent observation skills and attention to detail
Ability to work in a team setting, both in a leadership role and as a team member
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Valid G driver’s license
Camping and outdoor experience (camping is required as part of field work)
Pleasure Craft Operator card is considered an asset as some field sites are boat access only

Please email your resume or CV, (unofficial) transcripts, and a cover letter detailing your background, interests, and why you should be considered for the position to Dr. Chantel Markle (cmarkle@uwaterloo.ca) and with “Turtle and Wildfire MSc/MES” in the subject line.

Applications will be considered as they are received, but only those invited for an interview will be contacted. We anticipate conducting interviews in late September or early October 2026.

MSc or MES student opportunity: Turtle nesting movements and habitat use (Sept 2027)

The Wildlife Ecohydrology and Conservation Lab (www.chantelmarkle.ca) is seeking a highly motivated and hardworking individual with an interest in turtle nesting ecology and nesting habitat restoration to undertake a field-based project.

The project involves tracking radio multiple species of turtle to investigate nesting movements and use of natural and restored nesting habitats.

Funding: This position offers a minimum guaranteed stipend of $25,000.

Qualifications and Requirements:

BSc in Biology or Ecology (or similar degree) with at least an 80% GPA
Knowledge of turtle ecology and conservation
Familiarity with spatial ecology, R statistical coding, and GIS software
Experience with visual encounter surveys and radio telemetry
Physically capable of working safely outdoors in all weather conditions
Organized with excellent observation skills and attention to detail
Ability to work in a team setting, both in a leadership role and as a team member
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Valid G driver’s license
Camping and outdoor experience (camping is required as part of field work)

Applications will be considered as they are received, but only those invited for an interview will be contacted. We anticipate conducting interviews in late September or early October 2026.

2x BSc or BES research thesis student (Sept 2027)

We provide capstone research opportunities for research thesis students in their fourth year of undergraduate studies. Students should meet with Dr. Markle in their third year to discuss possible topics. Students are welcome to apply by emailing a cover letter, CV/Resume, and unofficial transcripts.

Instagram: @wildlife_ecohydro