Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Population Medicine - Field Surveillance and Forecasting of Blacklegged Ticks in Ontario

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

Advisor:

Dr. Korryn Bodner

Anticipating Change: Field Surveillance and Forecasting of Blacklegged Ticks in Ontario 

A PhD opportunity is anticipated to begin in May 2026 (or potentially September 2026) in the Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, under the supervision of Dr. Korryn Bodner

Project Overview:

I am seeking a highly motivated and independent PhD student to join my research team studying the blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis) and the pathogens it transmits in Ontario. The project will focus on forecasting tick abundance and pathogen risk by combining analyses of existing surveillance data with a new field study. This work addresses the growing concern of expanding tick distributions and the emergence of tick-borne diseases of importance to human and animal health.

The student will analyze established active surveillance records from partners at the University of Ottawa to extend existing work on spatial characterization toward spatiotemporal patterns in tick populations and infection rates. This work will be complemented by an additional field dataset collected by the PhD student, enabling direct comparison between established and newly generated data. These data will be integrated with environmental and climatic covariates to develop statistical forecasting models, with an emphasis on hierarchical and time-series approaches. The goal is to produce forecasts using a One Health perspective that will improve our ability to anticipate changes in tick populations and pathogen prevalence in Ontario.

Required Education Level and Background:

• Completed MSc (or equivalent) in epidemiology, ecology, biostatistics, or a related quantitative discipline.
• Strong interest in quantitative epidemiology and statistical modeling; proficiency in R is preferred.
• Experience with Bayesian models and/or hierarchical models is an asset.
• Willingness to conduct field-based tick surveillance as part of the project (previous field experience is an asset but not required).
• An Ontario Class G driver's license (or the equivalent) is required.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Application: 

To apply, please submit the following documents in a single email to Dr. Korryn Bodner (kbodner@uoguelph.ca).

• A letter of interest outlining your motivation and relevant experience
• Your curriculum vitae (CV)
• An unofficial transcript
• Full contact information for two academic or professional references

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and the position will remain open until filled.

Applicants must satisfy the admission requirements of the Faculty of Graduate Studies at the University of Guelph. Selection will consider academic excellence, relevant experience, alignment of career goals with the project, and referee evaluations. 

The University of Guelph is committed to fostering a culture of inclusion. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, including those from groups traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to the further diversification of our institution.

Inquiries about this position may be directed to Dr. Bodner. More information about graduate studies in the Department of Population Medicine can be found at: https://graduatestudies.uoguelph.ca/programs/popmed.