Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Pathobiology - Environmental Microbiology, Environmental Health, Epidemiology
Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph
Dr. Heather Murphy from the Department of Pathobiology at the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, is seeking a highly motivated PhD student to analyze data from a complex environmental randomized controlled trial (www.wettrial.org).
The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in spatial epidemiology and advanced data analysis from a large-scale randomized controlled trial aimed at reducing gastrointestinal illnesses linked to untreated private well water in rural Pennsylvania. Additionally, the candidate should be eager to develop expertise in water microbiology and quantitative microbial risk assessment. The role involves collaborating with an advisory panel of experts from institutions such as the EPA, CDC, USDA/USGS, and leading academics in environmental epidemiology and waterborne diseases.
Program Details:
Start Date: September 1, 2025
Application Deadline: Application review begins Nov 1, 2024 and will continue until the position is filled
Required Skills and Abilities:
- Master’s degree in a field relevant to the position: epidemiology, biostatistics, engineering, environmental studies, microbiology, environment health or related field; Bachelor’s degrees with relevant experience will be considered
- Experience with quantitative/ statistical analysis
- Excellent organizational and time management skills
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
- Demonstrated computer skills and proficiency with MS Office Suite programs.
- Must be reliable and punctual
- Experience in epidemiology and/or GIS analyses is desirable
- Preference will be given to applicants that are eligible for OVC Scholarships
About Dr. Murphy and the WHAM Lab
Dr. Heather Murphy, Canada Research Chair in One Health and leader of the Water, Health and Applied Microbiology (WHAM) Lab, brings extensive experience in water and sanitation research, both in Canada and internationally. She is deeply committed to providing meaningful professional development opportunities for her team, fostering growth and collaboration. Dr. Murphy’s active research programs span Canada and the United States, with the latter involving a large NIH-funded randomized controlled trial, offering the PhD student the chance to collaborate closely with her US-based team.
Dr. Murphy leads a diverse, inclusive, and supportive research group where all team members feel welcome and respected. Recognizing the impact of family responsibilities, she offers flexible working arrangements to accommodate the needs of her team. As part of her commitment to fostering an inclusive environment, all new students and staff are required to complete training on Identity and Unconscious Bias at Work and Principles of Belonging: Anti-Oppression and Anti-Racism.
In STEM fields, women and minorities remain underrepresented, and Dr. Murphy strongly encourages applicants from these groups to apply.
How to apply:
Send 1) a letter of interest and how the project aligns with past research experiences and career goals, 2) resume and 3) transcript to Dr. Heather Murphy heather.murphy@uoguelph.ca. Applications will be reviewed starting Nov 1, 2024 and will continue until the position is filled.
Applicants must meet the academic standards for admission to the Faculty of Graduate Studies at the University of Guelph. Additional information concerning graduate studies in the Department of Pathobiology is available at: https://www.uoguelph.ca/ovc/graduate-programs/
The University of Guelph is committed to an Employment Equity Program that includes special measures to achieve diversity among its faculty and staff. We therefore particularly encourage applications from qualified Indigenous Canadians, members of the LGBTQA community, women, veterans, persons with disabilities, and members of visible minorities. View the full U of G Employment Equity Policy.