The University of Guelph, through the Ontario Agricultural College and the School of Environmental Design and Rural Development, is offering funded MSc and PhD opportunities for students interested in rural health and well-being research. Successful applicants will work under the co-supervision of Dr. Leith Deacon and contribute to a large-scale study focused on rural communities in Ontario.
Research Focus
Students will conduct thesis-based research as part of either the MSc in Rural Planning and Development or the PhD in Rural Studies program. The research will involve supporting data collection efforts through a longitudinal, biennial survey examining the health and well-being of rural communities across Ontario.
The study will focus on three key areas:
- Health, including physical health, mental health, and addiction-related issues.
- Economics, covering employment trends, migration patterns, and local production.
- Adaptation, which includes climate change impact, biodiversity, water quality, innovation, disruption, and emergency response.
This research aims to provide a holistic understanding of the challenges and resilience of rural populations while contributing to policy development and rural planning.
Eligibility and Qualifications
MSc Applicants
Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in Geography, Planning, Epidemiology, or a closely related discipline. They should demonstrate an interest in rural communities and research-focused studies.
PhD Applicants
Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Geography, Planning, Biostatistics, or a related field. They should be prepared to undertake advanced research that aligns with the McCall MacBain Foundation Chair in Resilient Rural Communities.
Candidates for both programs must demonstrate:
- A strong academic background with research experience
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- The ability to work collaboratively in a research team with multiple ongoing projects
Preferred Skills
Applicants with the following skills will have an advantage:
- Interest in rural community development and planning
- Experience with qualitative and/or quantitative research methods
- Knowledge of GIS, statistical analysis, and community-based research
- Familiarity with coding or programming for data analysis
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit a complete application via email to Dr. Leith Deacon at Leith.Deacon@uoguelph.ca. The application should include:
- A letter of interest detailing research experience and goals
- A full CV outlining academic and research achievements
- Unofficial academic transcripts
- A writing sample demonstrating analytical and research abilities
- Contact information for two academic or professional references
Informal inquiries about the program are welcome.
Contact Information
School of Environmental Design and Rural Development
University of Guelph
50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G 2W1
Phone: 519-824-4120 x53353
Website: www.uoguelph.ca/sedrd
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