The PHRESH Lab at the University of Waterloo, led by Assistant Professor Sheereen Harris, is recruiting a prospective PhD student through the prestigious Canada Impact+ Research Training Awards (CIRTA) program. This opportunity is specifically open to international researchers who are currently outside of Canada and not affiliated with any Canadian institution. The successful candidate will join a dynamic research environment focused on exercise and health psychology, with particular emphasis on behavioural science, behaviour change, and the use of innovative methodologies such as experimental or mixed-methods research designs.

Research interests for this position include, but are not limited to, behavioural science, behaviour change, experimental or mixed-methods research, and the analysis of real-time and intensive longitudinal data (e.g., ecological momentary assessment, wearable or sensor-based data, and mobile technologies). The lab is especially interested in applicants who are curious, methodologically inclined, and motivated to use advanced approaches to understand psychological and contextual predictors of physical activity motivation and behaviour.

The CIRTA program provides substantial funding, offering $40,000 per year for up to three years, with the supervisor committing to support the student for the full duration of their PhD. The research must align with one of the CIRTA priority areas, such as health, advanced digital technologies, environment, or related fields. Applicants must be eligible to enroll in a PhD program by the activation date, with the last intake being winter 2027.

To apply, interested candidates should email Dr. Harris directly at [email protected], including unofficial transcripts, a CV, and a 1-page cover letter outlining their research interests. Candidates should also apply for program admission for fall 2026 or winter 2027. The application deadline is February 1, 2026. For more information on funding and eligibility, candidates are encouraged to review the CIRTA program details at the provided link.

This is an excellent opportunity for international students passionate about exercise and health psychology, behavioural science, and innovative research methods to advance their academic careers at a leading Canadian institution.