MSc Research Opportunities in Human and Environmental Physiology

Job summary

Conduct research on how heat and environmental factors influence human physiology, health, and performance. Students will implement experimental protocols, collect physiological data, and communicate findings through scientific publications.

Job details

University of Ottawa – Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit (HEPRU) | Ottawa, ON | Start Date: September 2027 About The Opportunity The Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit (HEPRU) at the University of Ottawa, home of Operation Heat Shield Canada, is seeking highly motivated candidates for full-time MSc studies. Students will conduct research examining how heat and other environmental factors influence human physiology, health, and performance. Working closely with Dr. Glen P. Kenny and the HEPRU research team, students will develop the scientific, technical, and analytical skills required to conduct high-quality human physiology research, while contributing to studies aimed at protecting vulnerable populations and workers from the health impacts of rising temperatures. Research and Training Students Will Receive Hands-on Training In Human Environmental Physiology, With Opportunities To Study Physiological Responses To Heat From Cellular And Molecular Processes To Integrated Whole-body Responses. Under Close Supervision, Students Will Learn To Develop research questions. Implement experimental protocols. Recruit and assess research participants. Collect and manage physiological data. Interpret experimental findings. Students will develop proficiency in physiological measurement techniques that may include: Whole-body calorimetry. Body temperature and cardiovascular monitoring. Skin blood flow and sweating measurements. Cellular and molecular analyses. Training will also include research ethics, data management, statistical analysis, scientific writing, and effective communication of research findings through scientific presentations and publications. Collaborative Training Environment Students will work within a supportive, team-based research environment alongside graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, research staff, and an interdisciplinary network of scientists, physicians, public health agencies, and industry partners. This environment provides opportunities to learn from researchers at different career stages, contribute to collaborative studies, and understand how physiological research can inform evidence-based heat-health guidance and practice. Qualifications Hold, or be nearing completion of, an undergraduate degree in kinesiology, physiology, health sciences, science, or a related discipline. Demonstrate strong academic standing, curiosity, and initiative. Have an interest in human physiology, health and performance, and the physiological impacts of extreme heat. Previous research experience is an asset but is not required, as specialized research and laboratory training will be provided. Position Details Full-time MSc positions are available for September 2027. Funded MSc positions are available. International candidates are encouraged to apply. Location: Montpetit Hall, University of Ottawa, 125 University Pvt., Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6N5, Canada. Application Procedures Interested candidates should send a CV, unofficial academic transcript, and brief statement outlining their research interests and motivation for pursuing MSc training to Dr. Glen P. Kenny (gkenny@uottawa.ca). For more information visit hepru.ca

What you’ll do

Conduct research on how heat and environmental factors influence human physiology, health, and performance. Students will implement experimental protocols, collect physiological data, and communicate findings through scientific publications.

Requirements

Candidates must hold or be nearing completion of an undergraduate degree in kinesiology, physiology, health sciences, or a related field. Strong academic standing and an interest in the physiological impacts of extreme heat are required.

Listed skills

• data management · Preferred

Other relevant skills

Identified from the job description. Confirm important requirements above.

• Human Environmental Physiology
• Whole-body Calorimetry
• Cardiovascular Monitoring
• Cellular And Molecular Analysis
• Data Management
• Statistical Analysis
• Scientific Writing
• Experimental Protocol Implementation
• Research Ethics
• Physiological Measurement Techniques

Job areas

• Science & Research
• Healthcare
• Education
• Environmental & Sustainability