PhD and Postdoc Positions in Disaster Studies and Climate Resilience at University of Waterloo University of Waterloo in Canada

The University of Waterloo is seeking outstanding international candidates for the Canada Impact+ Research Training Awards (CIRTA), offering one Ph.D. and one Postdoctoral position in disaster studies and climate resilience. The opportunity is led by Assistant Professor Rodrigo Costa and Dr. Maryia Markhvida, whose research integrates engineering, urban planning, data science, and social sciences to address disaster risk reduction and climate resilience. Candidates should have a background in engineering, urban planning, data science, or related disciplines, with experience in disaster risk or climate resilience research and a strong publication record. The positions are open to candidates currently outside Canada and not affiliated with Canadian institutions, with a focus on recruiting individuals from underrepresented groups in academia.

The CIRTA awards are highly competitive and provide substantial funding: CAD$70,000 per year for postdocs (up to 2 years) and CAD$40,000 per year for Ph.D. students (up to 3 years), along with additional benefits such as conference participation, peer learning, and mentorship for publishing in high-quality journals. Research areas include disaster studies, climate resilience, natural hazards engineering, and multidisciplinary approaches to understanding and mitigating disaster impacts. The program encourages candidates who are passionate about using their skills to tackle societal challenges and contribute to innovative research in strategic industries.

Applicants must meet the required qualifications and submit their interest via the provided Google Forms link. The review process will begin immediately and continue until suitable candidates are selected. Final admissions to the University of Waterloo are conditional on success in the CIRTA competition, with results expected by April 1, 2026. For more information, candidates are encouraged to read the CIRTA program details and reach out via the provided contact email.

Supervisors Rodrigo Costa and Maryia Markhvida bring expertise in disaster risk, climate resilience, and urban planning, with active collaborations and mentorship opportunities for successful applicants. The University of Waterloo offers a vibrant research environment and access to national and international networks, supporting the development of future leaders in disaster studies and climate resilience.