Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Population Medicine - Public Health or Epidemiology - Dr. Basem Gohar

Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph

Advisor

Dr. Basem Gohar

Project Overview

The University of Guelph’s Research in Occupational Health & Wellness (UGROHW) Lab is seeking a highly motivated PhD student to contribute to applied and impactful research in occupational health and wellness. Research will relate to identifying and understanding the necessary organizational changes to improve employee retention in various healthcare professions. This PhD will be pursued within the Department of Population Medicine with a specialization in public health or epidemiology.

Please note, this graduate opportunity is open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents only.

The UGROHW Lab is committed to advancing the mental health and wellbeing of human and veterinary healthcare professionals and other occupational groups through rigorous research, knowledge translation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Our current projects include national and community-based studies focused on employee retention, moral injury, and readiness to practice.

The successful candidate will gain experience in applied public health research and build expertise in qualitative and/or mixed-methods study design, data collection and analysis, research translation and stakeholder engagement. There will also be opportunities to contribute to publications, grant writing and knowledge mobilization.

Program Details

• Start Date: September 2025 (January 2026 at the latest)
• Funding: This is a funded position.
• Application Deadline: Open until filled; applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Early submissions encouraged.
• Location: Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph

Description of the Lab:

• Please visit the University of Guelph’s Research in Occupational Health & Wellness (UGROHW) website for more information.

Required Education Level and Background

• A completed master’s degree in epidemiology, public health, psychology, or a related discipline
• Demonstrated interest in occupational health, mental health, or population health research
• Qualitative research experience (e.g., interviews, focus groups, thematic analysis) is a strong asset
• Strong academic writing and organizational skills

Required Knowledge and Skills

• Understanding of the Canadian healthcare system
• Demonstrated interest in occupational health, mental health, or population health research
• Strong academic writing and organizational skills
• Qualitative research experience (e.g., interviews, focus groups, thematic analysis) is a strong asset
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Application

This graduate opportunity is open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents only.

Candidates are invited to submit the following:

• A brief statement of interest outlining your research background and fit with the lab
• Curriculum vitae or résumé
• Academic transcripts (unofficial acceptable for initial review)
• Contact information for at least one academic referee
• Only qualified applicants will be contacted.

Please email your documents to to Dr. Basem Gohar (bgohar@uoguelph.ca) with the subject line “PhD Application – Occupational Health & Wellness.”

At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. We invite and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our Institution.