Graduate students

Two students looking together at a map.

Why graduate studies in Earth and Environmental Sciences?

We have a strong tradition in research and graduate education with a history as one of the leading groundwater hydrology research groups in the world. Come and study with research leaders in the field.

As a graduate student in Earth and Environmental Sciences, you will participate in a quantitative and scientifically rigorous education in water sciences, sustainable mining, and Earth processes and geohazards. Explore the mechanisms behind our currently changing climate to derive a deeper understanding of our impact as humans on Earth systems, both at the surface and deep underground.

Chris Yakymchuk teaching in the lab.

Science faculty member receives Award of Excellence in Graduate Supervision

Congratulations to Dr. Chris Yakymchuk in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, who has received the Award of Excellence in Graduate Supervision. The depth of his research makes him an exceptionally well-rounded scientist, capable of training students in field work, petrology, instrumental analyses, and numerical modelling across multiple geoscience fields.

Learning through discovery

Our graduate students are conducting world-class research as part of their degree programs. See what they’re up to.  

Cooper Pickering

Master’s student monitors pollution at abandoned oil and gas wells

Cooper Pickering, a graduate student in Earth Sciences, is focused on establishing a process-based understanding of methane, hydrogen sulfide, and carbon dioxide leakage from legacy wells.

Mine tailings

Doctoral student investigates remediation options for one of Canada’s largest contaminated mines

What was once a thriving gold mine is now one of Canada’s most important environmental challenges. Buried beneath Giant Mine in Yellowknife is 237,000 tonnes of soluble and toxic arsenic dust.

Tyler Ciufo

Mining with Purpose: Science alum sustainably exploring gold deposits

As Canadians, we love being leaders in groundbreaking new technologies like the Canadarm, and BlackBerry phones, but have you ever stopped to think about the materials behind these advances in technology, and how they impact our planet?


Research in 60

Have a minute? Learn more about what our researchers are up to.  

Where do you fit in?

We offer master’s (MSc) and doctoral (PhD) programs that can be completed on a full or part time basis. Both are available with a thesis-based or research paper option.   

Graduate degrees can also be completed collaboratively through the Collaborative Water Program, co-ordinated and supported by the Water Institute.  

You’re not alone!

Whether you’re looking for help funding your education, navigating your degree, or looking to find your place in our community, we’re here for you. Check out the variety of services and supports available to graduate students.