PhD project on wastewater-based epidemiology in northern communities in Nunavik, Northern Canada

Wastewater based epidemiology has become an effective public health tool worldwide. However, it has mainly been applied in large communities with advanced wastewater treatment systems. Little research exists for small Indigenous communities, notably the Inuit communities of Nunavik. Their unique infrastructure for wastewater collection (using trucks) and treatment requires adapted methods.

This research project aims to develop an adapted method of wastewater-based epidemiology, applicable to the decentralized wastewater collection systems of Nunavik's northern villages. This method will enable local and regional authorities to better assess the spread of infectious diseases (COVID-19, influenza, RSV and especially tuberculosis) and implement effective public health interventions to prevent and limit epidemics. The project will be carried out in close collaboration with northern villages and Nunavik's regional public health authorities. The project will involve field activities, as well as laboratory analyses.

The successful candidate will ideally have experience in wastewater quality analysis, and knowledge of molecular biology and the health risks associated with infectious diseases. A good level of French comprehension is required. If necessary, the selected candidate must be open to taking French courses. The candidate must also be comfortable and interested in traveling to the remote region of Nunavik (accessible only by plane). If traveling to Nunavik, the candidate must have a valid driver's license.

Education (among the following field)

• Civil engineering
• Environmental engineering
• Biology
• Microbiology
• Molecular biology
• Public health

Research supervisor

Prof. Stéphanie Guilherme

Research environment

Department of Civil and Water Engineering, Université Laval, Québec, QC. The research will be carried out in partnership with the University of Ottawa and the Nunavik regional board of health and social services.

L'Université Laval, située dans la ville de Québec au Canada, est reconnue à l'international pour l'excellence de sa formation et de sa recherche. L'Université Laval est classée parmi les 20 meilleures universités francophones au monde selon les principaux palmarès des universités.

Student profil 

- Engineering
- Microbiology
- Molecular biology
- Public health

Conditions

- Master's degree in microbiology, water engineering, environment or related field
- Good academic record
- Strong interest in environmental and public health training
- Resourceful
- Be rigorous
- Enjoy teamwork
- Highly motivated