We are seeking a highly qualified candidate interested in pursuing an PhD in fisheries socio- economics in the Great Lakes basin, to complement our work on environmental and climate change, and their associated impacts on fisheries. Based at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and in conjunction with the Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research at the University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, this is an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of understanding one of Canada's most economically-important (estimated value > $7 billion/year), but least-understood fisheries, and to develop highly sought-after interdisciplinary and quantitative research skills.
Fisheries within the Great Lakes represent a variety of interests, including commercial, recreational, and subsistence sectors, and yet little to no attention has been paid to them as important social-ecological systems. That is, our understanding of who is fishing and why, what the value of these fisheries are, or where catches are ultimately consumed is limited. Recreational fisheries are thought to be particularly important for disadvantaged people who rely on these fisheries to supplement their diet. This lack of information coincides with dramatic, environmentally-driven change in the composition of Great Lakes food-webs, suggesting a high potential for mismanagement of associated fisheries in the future. This project will attempt to describe and quantify the socio-economic influencers on Great Lakes fisheries, as well the resulting socio- economic impacts from these fisheries. The ideal candidate will have an undergraduate background in Biology, Environmental Governance, Science, Policy or a related discipline, preferably with experience in, or knowledge of, quantitative and qualitative social research methods. Candidates should also have (i) the ability to work in an interdisciplinary environment, (ii) strong written and oral communication skills and (iii) experience conducting fieldwork. Most critically they will have a demonstrated ability to work as a constructive and positive member of a team. Competitive stipend, opportunities to TA, and funding for national and international conference travel will be provided. Contact information: For more information or to express your interest please contact Professors Aaron MacNeil (a.macn...@dal.ca), Megan Bailey (megan.bai...@dal.ca), or Aaron Fisk (af...@uwindsor.ca). Applications will be reviewed until suitable candidates are found.
