Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Population Medicine - Equine Health & Knowledge Mobilization

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

Advisor: Dr. Kelsey Spence

A PhD opportunity, starting in May or September 2026, is available in the Department of Population Medicine under the supervision of Dr. Kelsey Spence.

Project Description:

Knowledge mobilization is essential to support the uptake of best management practices within the horse industry. However, little is known about how horse owners access, interpret and implement scientific evidence to support their horses' health and welfare. This PhD will use qualitative and quantitative methods to explore how Ontario horse owners engage with different types of knowledge to inform their routine horse management practices. We aim to identify the types of information sources horse owners perceive as trustworthy, how knowledge brokers view their role in translating knowledge to horse owners and how horse owners decide to implement this knowledge into practice. The findings will inform strategies to improve research uptake in the horse industry.

Position Details:

Start date of May or September 2026, with a stipend of $35,000/year for 3 years. The student will be supported in applying for internal and external scholarships to supplement this funding. More information about graduate studies in the Department of Population Medicine is available here. More information about the Spence Lab can be found on our website.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in epidemiology, animal biosciences, or a related field.
• Strong quantitative or qualitative research skills (experience with mixed methods is an asset).
• Demonstrated interest in (or experience with) knowledge translation, mobilization and horse health and welfare.
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Knowledge of the Canadian equine industry is an asset. Applicants must meet the academic standards for admission to the Faculty of Graduate Studies at the University of Guelph.

Application Process:

Please submit a letter of interest outlining your motivations and relevant experience; a curriculum vitae/resume, unofficial academic transcripts and contact information for two references to Heidi Jim, Lab Manager, at jimh@uoguelph.ca. Please cc Dr. Spence, at kspenc04@uoguelph.ca in your email.

Selection of the successful candidate will be based on a combination of academic excellence, relevant experience, career goals and referee assessments. Review of applications will begin on December 31, 2025 and will continue until the position is filled.

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

Visit the Department of Population Medicine website to find more information about our graduate and post-doctoral studies.

Visit the Graduate Studies at UofG website for additional information on the application process.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.