Hosted within the Ndaakendaaswen Gamig (Lab) at the University of Guelph

Supervisor:  Dr. Susan Chiblow

The Ndaakendaaswen Gamig, led by Dr. Susan Chiblow, is inviting applications for a Master’s student to join a unique, interdisciplinary research initiative focused on bridging Indigenous and Western scientific knowledge systems to enhance aquatic ecosystem management. This project is grounded in Indigenous methodologies and Anishinaabek scientific knowledge, specifically from the Robinson Huron Treaty territory, and aims to develop an innovative, collaborative water quality management tool.

PROJECT OVERVIEW:

The research is centered around Indigenous aquatic knowledge and its application in water monitoring, ecosystem restoration, and environmental governance. The MSc student will contribute to building a baseline aquatic monitoring system rooted in Anishinaabemowin (Anishinaabek language), Indigenous research methods, and Western water quality indices. The work seeks to support reconciliation in Canada by demonstrating how Indigenous scientific knowledge (i.e., science) and Western science can work together to improve aquatic ecosystem health and sustainability.

THE MSc WILL INVOLVE:

• Collaborating with Anishinaabek communities, Elders, and knowledge holders in the Robinson Huron Treaty territory.
• Working with the project research team to develop a biocultural monitoring framework and protocol.
• Conducting aquatic fieldwork and mapping using both Indigenous knowledge and Western scientific tools.
• Participating in biocultural monitoring, community-engaged research, and protocol-driven site visits.
• Supporting the co-creation of tools for aquatic decision-making and water quality indices that reflect multiple ways of knowing.
• Engaging in knowledge translation through community reports, presentations, workshops, and academic outputs.
• Working in an interdisciplinary setting spanning environmental science, Indigenous and environmental studies, water science, ecology, policy, and water governance.

QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WILL HAVE:

• Demonstrated respect for and experience working with Indigenous communities and/or knowledge systems.  Experience with Anishinaabek communities preferred.
• Strong interest or experience in Indigenous research methodologies and environmental science.
• Undergraduate degree in environmental science, Indigenous studies, biology, geography, or a related field.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0 (B average or higher).
• Commitment to ethical, respectful, and inclusive research practices.

ANTICIPATED START DATE:

September 1, 2025

LOCATION:

University of Guelph (with fieldwork throughout the Robinson Huron Treaty territory, including travel for community engagement and sampling)

STIPEND:

Stipend available.

TO APPLY:

Email a statement of interest, CV, and unofficial transcripts to:

• Dr. Susan Chiblow [1]
• Dr. Paul Meighan [2]

Preference will be given to applications received by July 30,2025, but the position will remain open until filled.

We especially encourage applications from Indigenous candidates. The research is Anishinaabek-led and driven, and seeks to train Indigenous students in land- and water-based science approaches. We also welcome applicants from communities historically excluded from academic science, including 2SLGBTQIA+, Black, racialized, and disabled students.