PhD in Marine Geochemistry and Lipidomics

PhD candidate (m/f)

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate who has an MSc in organic geochemistry (or related field), preferably with experience in analyzing intact/non-intact polar lipids (IPLs and PLs). The candidate will utilize samples deemed interesting because they contain genomic evidence of bacterial anaerobic oxidation of hydrocarbons and/or have detected seep oil within the sediments. The PhD candidate will conduct lipidomics and water column geochemical studies of samples collected from transect surveys of the Grand Banks, NL.

Research tasks:

• Participate in upcoming cruise(s) to collect samples as ship-time becomes available.
• Formalize wet chemistry procedures for the extraction and separation of bacterial and archaeal IPLs and PLs with authentic standards and matrix-matched reference materials.
• Identify and quantify the various IPLs and PLs within collected sediment samples.
• Relate these data to existing, geochemical, genomic assay and petroleum hydrocarbon data.
• Assess whether distributions of IPLs and PLs provides evidence for the presence of seep oils and biodegraded petroleum products.

Applicants are required to have, or be about to obtain, a master's degree, or equivalent, in geological science, chemistry, environmental science, or related field areas. Candidates with the following qualifications are encouraged to apply:

• Strong academic background.
• Passionate research interest and a background in organic geochemistry or chemistry.
• Proficient scientific writing skills and high motivation to produce publishable results.
• Very good command of spoken and written English, i.e. TOEFL IBT (overall score of 88 or better, minimum score of 20 in each of the four components: listening, speaking, writing, reading) or TOEFL PBT (paper-based test, minimum score of 570, minimum essay score of 5).

This degree offers:

• A cutting-edge research project using state-of-the-art, modern analytical equipment.
• A training program tailored to the needs of the student.
• The ability to present research findings at national and international conferences.
• A friendly and multi-disciplinary environment.
• Attractive salary in accordance with Canadian University standards.
• Excellent future career opportunities.

Expression of interest including CV, academic transcript and the names of three references should be sent to Prof. G. Todd Ventura ( [email protected] ).

Closing date: 31 st January, 2026

Starting date: between May 1 st to September 1 st , 2026

Application review will begin January 31 st , 2026 , and continue until the position is filled. Saint Mary's University in Halifax, Nova Scotia offers a PhD in Applied Science. The successful candidate will join our growing SMU Organic Geochemistry Laboratory (SMU OGL) research group. This position includes costs of tuition and a living stipend.

For informal enquiries and further information about this research project and the academic setting of SMU contact Dr. Todd Ventura, email: [email protected] .

For more information concerning the OGL research group please see:

For further details about studying at Saint Mary's University see: and .