STUDENT PLACEMENT DESCRIPTIONS 2025

The following is a list of the possible placements that are available for the 2025 program.
Please read each description carefully to determine if the work involved is something that you would be
interested in doing for seven weeks. Primary supervisor names are in parentheses after the job title.
Note that the student is responsible for transportation to and from the workplace each day. For positions
at the OSC, a shuttle is available from MUN (St. John’s campus).

AVALON PENINSULA (42)

Note: The following placements are in St. John’s and surrounding areas.

FACULTY OF ENGINEERING AND APPLIED SCIENCE (MEMORIAL UNIVERSITY) (6)

Research Assistant (Dr. Kelly Hawboldt): Bioprocess of marine biomass – working with graduate
students on characterizing, thermal and biological processes to get value from waste biomass

Design Assistant (Lihong Zhang): Artificial intelligence (AI) has penetrated in the modern daily
life. A large language model (LLM) is an AI model that uses deep learning to perform natural
language processing tasks. Since ChatGPT debuted in November 2022, LLM has kicked off a
wave of generative AI products and applications in different areas. For the engineering
problems (such as electronic circuit design), inference and optimization are needed. This
project is to study how to properly use LLM to solve engineering problems especially through
interference and optimization. This job will provide the student a learning environment for
studying LLM, inference, and optimization. The student is expected to learn how to use certain
software (e.g., ChatGPT, DeepSeek, and Llama) to work on problem formulation, prompt
formation, output analysis, and performance comparison. The student will extend their science
(in particular, computer software) knowledge to look at engineering applications. LLM app
usage will be intensively learned and practiced in this project. *Can be remote*

Annotation Specialist (Qian Zhong): Primarily labeling images for machine learning
algorithms. It focuses on accurately tagging or annotating images to train and improve
machine learning models, often within the field of computer vision. *Can be remote*

Laboratory Assistant (Syed Imtiaz): The student will help prepare educational outreach
material and experiments that can be used when talking to elementary, junior high, and high
school students plus the general public. This part of the project will require that the trainee
work with some of Memorial’s undergraduate and graduate students to understand the
important physical concepts, and design and make meaningful displays/experiments. There
will also be the opportunity to participate in experiments going on in Process Engineering.
The student will be helping set up and run experiments, collecting and analyzing results, and
communicating them clearly and concisely in written and presentation format.

Research Assistant (Lesley James): The Research Assistant will help prepare educational
outreach material and experiments that can be used when talking to elementary, junior high,
and high school students plus the general public. This part of the project will require that the
candidate works with some of Memorial’s undergraduate and graduate students to understand
the important physical concepts and design and make meaningful
displays/experiments. There will also be the opportunity to participate in experiments in
process engineering. The candidate will help set up and run experiments, collect and analyze
results, and communicate them clearly and concisely in written and presentation format.

Data Collection Assistant (Sima Alidokht): Support with data collection for machine learning in
materials engineering processes. *Can be remote*

FACULTY OF SCIENCE (MEMORIAL UNIVERSITY) (21)

SciQuest Camp Counselor (2) (Danielle Nichols): As a counselor, you’ll guide curious campers
through hands-on experiments, spark their curiosity in Science, and create unforgettable
memories. Key Responsibilities are: 1) Lead engaging science activities and experiments 2) Foster
a positive and inclusive camp environment 3) Inspire campers to explore the wonders of science
4) Ensure safety and well-being of all participants.

DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHOLOGY (5)

Atlantic Puffin Research Assistant (Dr. Pierre-Paul Bitton): The research assistant will be
responsible for helping a graduate student collect and analyze Atlantic puffin vocalizations. If
there is extra time, the student could conduct a pilot study on the movement of puffins on
land. In the field, the student will be asked to help deploy recorders and RFID units inside
puffin burrows and conduct a playback experiment. The work may involve capturing puffins
to collect samples and increase our colour-banded population. They will also be asked to help
extract call characteristics from the recordings (mostly in the lab). Other tasks will include
contribution to field preparation and managing the data collected.

Research Assistant (2) (Ashlyn Swift-Gallant): We are seeking help with animal handling and
behavior testing in a study examining the role of gut microbiota in depression and anxiety
behaviors. The candidate will work with rodent models, focusing on sex-specific factors that
influence gut-mediated mental health outcomes. Tasks include assisting with gut microbiota
transplantation, conducting behavioral assays, and analyzing neuroimmune and hormonal
changes.

Student Research Assistant (2) (Heath Matheson): Applicants will assist in behavioural and
electrophysiological research with human participants investigating the neural correlates of
conceptual thinking within ongoing research in the CREATE Lab surrounding embodied
cognition. Applicants may participate in all phases of a research project, including
methodological development (e.g. creation of experimental materials), data collection from
human participants, data curating and analysis, and knowledge dissemination (e.g. preparing
conference posters).

DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY (4)

Research Assistant (2) (Lindsay Cahill): Research assistant: involved in mouse and human
experiments to study pregnancy and brain development. You will be trained to use analytical
tools (e.g. nuclear magnetic resonance, ultrasound) to answer questions about human
health. You will be exposed to a variety of different experiments ongoing in the research
group (e.g. studying the impact of microplastics on pregnancy and developing new medical
imaging approaches to study the brain). You will also be encouraged to get involved with
some community engagement activities with local elementary schools.

Research Assistant (Myongin Oh): Retinol-binding proteins (RBPs) play a critical role in the
uptake, transport, and metabolism of dietary retinoids (vitamin A and its derivatives). These
proteins are implicated in various diseases and metabolic syndromes, including obesity,
cardiovascular diseases, and macular degeneration. Interestingly, recent findings revealed
that RBPs also interact with lipids, suggesting their broader role in lipid metabolism and
signaling. Despite this, the molecular mechanisms underlying the distinct binding of RBPs to
retinoids and non-retinoids remain largely unknown. To address this gap, our research aims
to unravel these molecular mechanisms. Specifically, the student will use an integrated
approach of molecular dynamics simulation and machine learning to investigate the
molecular basis of lipid binding to cellular RBP2. *Can be remote*

Research Assistant (Erika Merschrod): Microplastics are a growing environmental and health
concern. You will work with an interdisciplinary team developing spectroscopic methods for
microplastics identification. *Can be remote*

DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS (1)

Research Assistant (Hilding Neilson): One of the big questions in stellar astrophysics is the
properties of variable stars, in particular classical Cepheids and long-period variables. These
stars are useful as standard candles to measure the distances to other galaxies and to study
the expansion of the Universe. In this project, the researcher will be expected to learn about
software for fitting the amount of light observed over times as it varies over some repeating
period. The student will gather data from open resources such as the American Association
of Variable Star Observers aavso.org to measure the period or periods of variability. We will
connect these results with other measurements of distance, etc to better understand these
stars. *Can be remote*

DEPARTMENT OF EARTH SCIENCES (2)

Geochemistry Research Assistant (Michael Babechuk): A WISE-NL student would assist with
day-to-day operations of our newly opened clean laboratory and inductively coupled plasma
mass spectrometry facility, which is dedicated to the cutting-edge analysis of trace elements
in rocks, minerals, and waters. These analyses assist geoscientists with the understanding of
societally relevant issues such as the transport of elements through environmental reservoirs
and the exploration for new mineral resources that are critical for advanced technologies and
green energy solutions.

Research Assistant in Paleoenvironments (Hilary Corlett): A research assistant working on these
studies in Dr. Corlett’s Paleoenvironmental and Diagenesis Research Group lab will gain expertise
in invertebrate fossil/modern sample identification using a variety of microscopic techniques
(e.g., petrographic analysis using thin sections, stereoscope photography, scanning electron
microscopy). Samples analyzed in the lab are from all over the world and from different geological
time intervals including Abu Dhabi, Bahamas, and the Rocky Mountains in western Canada, along
with samples from Newfoundland, collected locally and from western Newfoundland. The aim of
the research is to understand the impact of environmental changes on shallow marine ecosystems
across a variety of timescales.

DEPARTMENT OF BIOCHEMISTRY (4)

Computational Biochemistry Research Assistant (Dr. Katie Wilson): The World Health
Organization has identified multidrug resistant bacteria as a serious global health threat. One
possible route of treating antibiotic resistance infections is targeting the bacterial membrane.
The proposed work will use computer-based methodologies to allow for a detailed visual
investigation of the bacterial membrane and how drugs interact with this membrane. Through
using computer simulations we are able to gain information about harmful bacteria without
the risks associated with working with pathogenic bacteria in the lab. The results gained
through this work will pave the way for the creation of new innovative strategies for combating
antibiotic-resistant bacteria. *Can be remote*

Research assistant in antimicrobial drug development (Valerie Booth): Student will
contribute to wet-lab research based on using antimicrobial peptides as the basis for novel
antibiotics to address the problem of resistance to conventional antibiotics. Our hypothesis is
that carbohydrate/peptide interactions contribute to the specificity of these peptides – i.e. so
they harm pathogens at concentrations that are not toxic to our own cells. This summer we
will be measuring binding constants for an antimicrobial peptide binding to carbohydrates
from mammalian cells, as well as carbohydrates from bacteria, to see which carbs the peptide
binds strongest to.

Nutritional Sciences Research Assistant – wet lab projects (Scott Harding): The student will
support graduate students in conducting laboratory analyses for three ongoing research
projects. This position offers hands-on experience in administering feeding trials, analyzing
biological samples, and managing data from laboratory experiments. Key responsibilities
include • Assisting with feeding and sample collection in a sea urchin aquaculture study
Supporting the completion of lipid analysis for an omega-3 digestion and absorption project
Conducting sample analysis for a fructose feeding and metabolism study.
The student will work collaboratively with a team of graduate students and fellow research
assistants, gaining valuable experience in laboratory techniques, data management, and the
broader research process.

Public Health Research Assistant – Computer-based Projects (Scott Harding):
The student will assist research staff and investigators in analyzing data from two large
population surveys conducted in Newfoundland and Labrador. These surveys evaluate the
impact of the sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) tax on consumer behavior. Key responsibilities
include • Learning to manipulate and analyze large datasets to assess changes in SSB
consumption • Performing statistical analyses to evaluate policy effectiveness • Contributing
to report writing and the creation of public-facing materials to communicate findings. This
position provides an opportunity to develop data analysis skills, gain experience with public
health policy evaluation, and contribute to meaningful research with real-world impact. *Can be remote*

DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY (3)

Research Assistant in marine microbiology (Jeanette Wheeler): In my research group, we study
the interactions between biology, physics, and chemistry that occur at the smallest scales in the
oceans. Marine bacteria are among the most numerous organisms on the planet –there are more
bacteria in our oceans than there are stars in the universe! They are crucial for the existence of
life on Earth: for instance, they produce nutrients needed by algae which in turn produce the air
we breathe. In this project, we study two types of bacteria: 1) Vibrio, some of which are harmful
and infect shellfish like the oysters or mussels that we use in aquaculture; and 2) Roseobacter,
some of which coexist with algae and form mutually beneficial relationships. In my group, we are
interested in how these tiny bacteria navigate in a vast ocean to find hosts (whether to infect
them or to co-exist). To this end, swimming is an important strategy for marine bacteria, as it can
help them find these hosts faster. However, climate change is having a strong effect on the ocean
in terms of changing seawater temperatures, salt levels, and other environmental conditions, and
it is not clear how these changing conditions will affect important marine bacteria like the kind
we study here. The WISE summer student will assist with growing marine bacteria under a range
of environmental conditions to observe changes to 1) bacterial growth and division and 2)
bacterial swimming. They will learn how to use sophisticated microscopes and high-speed
cameras to directly observe bacterial swimming strategies. Further, they will learn cutting-edge
tools for analyzing this kind of image data, including learning to code in Python (no previous
coding experience is necessary). The ocean is changing with our changing climate, and within it,
the massive invisible network of marine bacteria will be affected in ways that are difficult to
predict. The research conducted by the student during the summer will be key to increasing our
understanding of how two important types of marine bacteria respond to changing ocean
conditions.

Molecular cell biology and developmental genetics laboratory assistant (Brian E. Staveley):
The successful applicant will aid undergraduate and graduate students in the daily operations
of a molecular biology, aging and age-related disease models, and developmental genetics
laboratory. Duties include: (1) Care and maintenance of Drosophila (common fruit fly)
cultures employed as models of human diseases (ie. Parkinson’s, ALS and aging); (2) General
laboratory duties; (3) Assisting in carrying out biological, aging and behavioural experiments
into the effects of altering life and cell death in Drosophila melanogaster.

Microbiology lab assistant (Dawn Bignell): The successful applicant will assist with the daily
operations of our microbiology research lab. Tasks that will be performed include washing
lab glassware, preparation of glassware and plasticware for sterilization, preparation of
general microbiological culture media and solutions, general lab cleaning and organization,
and chemical inventory maintenance. In addition, the student will have an opportunity to
work alongside a graduate student in the lab and assist them with tasks associated with their
research project.

FACULTY OF MEDICINE (2)

Clinical Research Assistant – Cardiovascular Sciences (2) (Anthony Incognito): We are seeking
motivated and detail-oriented Clinical Research Assistants to support an ongoing study
examining the relationship between blood pressure status and cognitive and motor function
in individuals with Parkinson’s disease. This position provides an excellent opportunity for
students interested in clinical research, neuroscience, and cardiovascular physiology.
Key Responsibilities: • Escort research participants from the building lobby to the testing
room. • Assist in data collection sessions, including the placement of heart rate and blood
pressure monitors on participants. • Administer standardized questionnaires related to
cognitive and motor function. • Demonstrate proper use of at-home blood pressure monitors
to participants. • Collect blood pressure measurement forms and extract relevant data into
spreadsheets. • Organize and extract data from patient questionnaires into structured
datasets. • Maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical research standards when handling
participant data (completion of the TCPS 2: CORE-2022 (Course on Research Ethics) is required
prior to the start date – https://tcps2core.ca/welcome.

THE OCEAN SCIENCES CENTRE (OSC), LOGY BAY (1)
NOTE: There is a shuttle bus service available to transport students from MUN St. John’s Campus
to the OSC

Marine Biology and Ecology Research Assistant (Patrick Gagnon): To assist research on native
and invasive marine invertebrates and seaweeds. Responsibilities will include but not be
limited to: 1) stereoscopic and microscopic analysis of biological tissues, 2) identification,
counting, and weighing of organisms, 3) quantification of animal behaviour, and 4) analysis of
seabed imagery acquired by divers. This work will be conducted in a laboratory setting. If
interested, the student will be offered opportunities to assist with frequent field work on
board a research vessel.

WOMEN IN SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING NL (WISE NL) (2)

WISE Website Content Developer (2) (Melissa Keats): Students will spend 35 hours/week
assisting with the development and maintenance of web content on current WISE NL websites.
Tasks will include planning, developing and updating web content, end-user testing and
development of training materials and website launch and promotion. Students will become
familiar with WordPress, HTML and CSS (if applicable).

THE JOHNSON GEOCENTRE (2)

Science Interpreter (2) (Andrea van Nostrand): The student will play a vital role in helping to
provide meaningful learning experiences for the public. Interpreter duties include
presentation of daily science-themed programs to visitors of all ages, interacting with the
public, answering questions, researching answers, conducting science demonstrations, and
working the 2D/3D theatre. The student may also assist in our summer camps.

MEMORIAL UNIVERSITY BOTANICAL GARDEN (1)

Nursery Research Assistant (Timothy Walsh): The successful applicant will work in a botanical
garden nursery and help to provide all the necessary care to all levels of a plant
development, from early propagation to plant maturity. The applicant will work inside a
greenhouse, hoophouse, coldhouse and alpine house as well as open field beds. We will
explore the common tasks of planting, watering, fertilizing, staking, pruning, and pest
control, and will also work on the aesthetics of horticulture and design with container
planting and special displays. The Nursery Research Assistant will also work on the gardens
ex-situ collections of rare and endangered plants of The Great Northern Peninsula, plus help
introduce the basics of horticulture to summer youth camp students.

CHAMPNEY’S WEST AQUARIUM (1)

Aquarium Interpreter (Dr. William Driedzic): The position will involve being part of the team that
runs a public marine aquarium. The primary responsibility will be to inform visitors (all ages) about
a variety of marine animals on display in touch tanks and large tanks. Tasks will include interacting
with visitors to the aquarium, animal care, helping maintain the facility, animal collection, team
teaching, etc.

FLUVARIUM (2)

STEM Program Designer (2) (Jon Butler): Are you looking to have a meaningful impact during
your WISE NL summer placement? Are you motivated to play a crucial role in continuing the
development of the first ever engineering design competition at The Fluvarium, all while
learning critical engineering and professional development skills? Then, this opportunity is for
you! Apply to join the Special Projects Task Force (SPTF) at The Fluvarium, where you and one
other high school will partner with a team of MUN Engineering students and have the unique
opportunity to be at the beginning of something that NL has never seen before. You will be
expected to • Be organized. In a team of two, you will need to coordinate tasks and schedules,
while communicating regularly with the project director and MUN Engineering work-term
students • Be open and collaborative. You will be expected to work hard, but not alone. While
working with the SPTF team, you will meet regularly to brainstorm, explore ideas, and
determine the best solutions to problems faced along the way. This will present you with an
amazing opportunity to learn and grow • Be independent. As a member of the SPTF team, you
will be expected to be a problem-solver. This means when issues come your way, it will be your
responsibility to resolve them (with support). Your duties will include • Working alongside a
team of MUN Engineering students to help design, build, and test RC boats for the Engineering
RC Boat Challenge • Contributing to the design process by helping research materials, sketch
boat blueprints, and assist in constructing the boats • Participating in workshops and discussions
designed to help you build essential skills in engineering design practices, communication,
teamwork, and leadership • Share your ideas and innovations! *Can be remote*

AGAT LABORATORIES (2)

Laboratory Technician (2) (Lana Cameron and Suzette Winter): The Laboratory Technician
position will assist in various sections throughout AGAT Labs. They will work alongside the senior
technicians in the analytical chemistry lab, the microbiology lab and the ecotoxicology lab. They
will also assist in the sample reception area, where they will be receiving samples and filing client
bottle orders. AGAT Labs is an ISO 17025 certified laboratory, the student will be ensuring that all
tasks comply with the Standard Operating Procedures and Quality Control.

NATIONAL RESEARCH COUNCIL (2)

Human Factors Research Assistant (Jennifer Smith): The research assistant will learn about
maritime human factors and contribute to an interdisciplinary team of researchers and graduate
students. The team will work together to develop and test prototype decision support and training
technologies. The successful applicant will assist with the day-to-day research efforts for planning
and conducting experiments with the prototype technologies. Expected duties include:
completing training, recruiting volunteers for the experiment, preparing the experimental
protocol, testing of the prototypes, conducting the experiment, briefing and debriefing
participants, administering questionnaires, recording and communicating observations, collecting
and securely storing data, preparing a report the findings, and performing other related duties as
required. The research assistant will be required to complete the Tri-Council Policy Statement on
Ethical Conduct for Research Involving Humans (TCPS) Certification. The research assistant will
report to Dr. Jennifer Smith, an Assistant Research Officer, with the Marine Operations, Autonomy
and Safety team at the Ocean, Coastal and River Engineering Centre in St. John’s Newfoundland.

Research Assistant (Fatima Jahre): The student will assist with data analysis as part of ongoing
research projects at NRC. They will be responsible for organizing and cleaning raw data sets,
applying basic statistical procedures using spreadsheet or Python, and generating reports to
summarize findings. Additionally, the student will gain hands-on experience with data analysis
tools and will be expected to contribute to discussions on how statistical results inform the
research objectives.

WESTERN NEWFOUNDLAND (7)

GRENFELL CAMPUS (Corner Brook) (5)

Physics Outreach Student Coordinator (2) (Dr. Svetlana Barkanova): The successful candidate
will work collaboratively on-site with the Grenfell Campus Office of Engagement, assisting
with the development of Physics in the Classroom Programming and delivering/developing
materials for youth-focused physics outreach at the Memorial University Community Hubs.
The position involves developing materials, collaborating with internal and external partners,
coordinating events, and delivering public outreach, including youth outreach. The ideal
candidate will be reliable and responsible, possessing strong organizational skills, and have
the ability to work independently.

Research Assistant (Kelly Hawboldt): Working with PDFs and PhD students in converting
waste biomass (forestry, fishery, municipal) to products.

Research Assistant (2) (Mumtaz Cheema): These Research Assistants will work in field and
assist graduate students in measuring greenhouse gases (GHG) from different crops using
static chamber method. Tasks include transferring GHG samples from syringes to vials and
then assisting in analyses, collecting soil samples from field, processing, sieving and
extraction.

CENTRE FOR RESEARCH AND INNOVATION (1)

Student Apprentice in the Makerspace (Dr. Todd Hennessey): The Makerspace Student Assistant
will support the daily operations of the makerspace by assisting users, maintaining equipment,
and fostering a collaborative and creative environment. This position is ideal for students with a
passion for hands-on learning, making, and helping others bring their ideas to life.

BONNE BAY AQUARIUM AND RESEARCH STATION (1)

Marine Interpreter/Cashier (Jill McCue-Laing): The successful individuals will be required to assist
and sometimes lead various tours through the aquarium and research station as well as assist in
the Discovery Tour (boat tour) and Tidal Pool walks with the delivery of interpretive programming
in marine life and the natural and cultural history of Bonne Bay. Collecting and maintaining
(feeding, tank cleaning) marine organisms is also required as scheduled. Interacting and engaging
with excited children and live marine animals is a must. Interpreters will also have the opportunity
to be involved in the exciting research that is ongoing at the facility.

LABRADOR (2)

NunatuKavut Community Council (Port Hope Simpson) (2)

Junior Food Researcher (Roxanne Notley): The position of Junior Food Researcher will report
directly to the NunatuKavut Community Council NCC Food Security Coordinator. The Junior
Food Researcher’s primary objective is to support the Food Security Coordinator with
projects assigned. The individual is responsible for facilitating the progression of Food
research successful development and approval, process improvements, and product
launches. Working conditions include a field and office environment, and interactions with
team members and management. Some travel may be required. *Can be remote*

STUDENT PLACEMENT DESCRIPTIONS 2024

The following is a list of the possible placements that are available for the 2024 program.
Please read each description carefully to determine if the work involved is something that you would be
interested in doing for seven weeks. Primary supervisor names are in parentheses after the job title.
Note that the Student is responsible for Transportation to and from the workplace location each day. For
positions at the OSC there is a shuttle available from MUN (St. John’s campus).

AVALON PENINSULA (39)

Note: The following placements are in St. John’s and surrounding areas.

FACULTY OF ENGINEERING AND APPLIED SCIENCE (MEMORIAL UNIVERSITY) (4)

Research Assistant (Dr. Kelly Hawboldt): Working with PDFs and PhD students in transforming
waste biomass (forestry and fishery residues) to value added products. Working in with
graduate students in lab to: analyze composition of biomass and products, test biomass
products as water treatment adsorbents, and test biomass as method to control greenhouse
gases. Students would be working with graduate students in the lab to: analyze composition
of biomass and products, test biomass products as water treatment adsorbents, and test
biomass as method to control greenhouse gases.

Design Assistant (Dr. Lihong Zhang): To address the recent unprecedented natural disasters
caused by climate change, human beings have to replace fossil fuels with renewable energy.
This project is to study triboelectric effect in order to develop triboelectric nanogenerators, a
new type of energy harvesters especially good at converting small-scale mechanical motions
(i.e., vibration) into electricity. This job will provide the student a learning environment for
studying triboelectric effect, constructing triboelectric nanogenerators and simulating
triboelectric devices. The student is expected to learn how to use certain software (e.g.,
COMSOL Multiphysics software) to work on material selection, structure design and
optimization, and device simulation. The student will extend their science (physics, in
particular) knowledge to focus on triboelectric effect and its application. Finite element
modeling (FEM) and associated simulation will be intensively learned and practiced in this
project. Position can be done remotely if necessary.

Clean Energy – Subsurface Storage of Carbon Dioxide & Hydrogen Assistant (2) (Dr. Lesley
James): Students will participate in: -lab experiments – internet research – design and develop
outreach activities – possibly go to summer camp(s) and present outreach activity – assist
with Engineering camps when kids come to spend time in Process Engineering – make
outreach materials – post on social media relating to Clean Energy- Subsurface Storage of
Carbon Dioxide and Hydrogen.

FACULTY OF SCIENCE (MEMORIAL UNIVERSITY) (16)

Science Summer Camp Counselor (2) (Danielle Nichols): As a Science Camp Counsellor will be
responsible for assisting with the organization and assist in delivery of the summer camp
programming for children ages 7-11. This position offers you a fun team setting experience with
delivering educational and hands-on programs, developing communication skills and supervising
youth. The Science Camp Counsellor will work with the summer camp coordinator and under the
supervision of the the Faculty of Science Outreach Coordinator. The primary tasks are: 1)
cooperatively deliver meaningful science education and STEM experiences appropriate for
children ages 7-11 2) supervise campers while taking responsibility for their safety and enjoyment
3) assist in providing guidance to campers and youth volunteers 4) maintain a clean and safe work
area 5) assist in camp promotion.

DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHOLOGY (4)

Seabird Research Assistant (Dr. Pierre-Paul Bitton): As part of a team of graduate and
undergraduate student, the WISE SSEP student will be responsible for collecting and
processing research data on Atlantic puffins. Daily activities would include processing
images/videos for data extraction, analyzing puffin vocalizations, and participating in field
trips to the puffin colonies for field work. Lab work will involve supporting student research
activities through the data extraction of images or videos, and analysis of puffin
vocalizations. Data entry and quality control will also be needed. For field work, the students
will participate in day trips to the puffin colonies to setup equipment, and will have the
opportunity to join a crew on overnight stays to help capture and collect data from adult
puffins.

Research Assistant (2) (Dr. Jonathan Fawcett): As a research assistant with the NeuroFog
Laboratory, you would engaged in collaborative research on topics related to the control of
unwanted memories, eyewitness memory, or anxiety disorders. At present, we have studies
exploring memory intrusions following horror movies, memory for simulated crimes in virtual
reality contexts, and explorations of the distribution of anxiety disorders across different
populations. Should you join our group, you would have some say in which projects you
engaged with.

Research Assistant (Kyla Malayang): The student would work as a Research Assistant, under
my direct supervision. This role will primarily involve learning how to organize data obtained
from a psychological study. This study is part of my doctoral dissertation and involves the
implementation of a behavioural intervention to help post-secondary students learn new
information effectively. The student may assist me in data analysis as well, depending on
their level of comfort and skills during the program.

DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY (4)

Green Chemistry Group Research Assistant (Dr. Chris Kozak): Assist graduate students in
preparing and performing experiments, assist in preparing demonstration experiments for
first year chemistry students at MUN, lab notebook and inventory maintenance, attend
group meetings to discuss recent research results from the group and develop
presentation/communication skills, promote the group’s work on social media.

Research Assistant (2) (Dr. Lindsay Cahill): My research group is interested in studying the
impact on environmental exposures on pregnancy and early life development. Over the
summer we will be using advanced biomedical imaging techniques (e.g. ultrasound, magnetic
resonance) to study how pollutants (e.g. nanoplastics, perfluoroalkyl substances) impact
pregnancy in groups of mice and in a human study. The student can be involved in data
collection, participant recruitment, and data analysis. The student will develop skills working
with animals, performing data collection and analysis. The student will also help with
participant recruitment for a clinical study and with knowledge translation activities with the
general public.

Research Assistant: Materials Science & Engineering (Dr. Erika Merschrod): Work with a
diverse and collaborative research group where you can learn to make, characterize, and/or
test new materials with real-world applications! Projects available with artificial bone, eye
disease (involves animal-derived samples), and environmental sensors. Skills you can develop
(according to your interest): atomic force microscopy, spectroscopy, coding, nanofabrication,
science communication, electronics.

DEPARTMENT OF EARTH SCIENCES (1)

Environmental Research Assistant (Dr. Susan Ziegler): Research assistant position to work with
others on projects related to climate change impacts on boreal and subarctic landscapes and
aquatic ecosystems. Projects include understanding the variation in the diet of Arctic Char
across Nunatsiavut and climate change impacts on boreal forest landscape carbon and nutrient
cycling including soil carbon stores and their role in climate feedbacks. Duties will entail
assisting with sample preparations and analyses in the laboratory in addition to research with
existing data. We are looking for someone interested in gaining experience in multidisciplinary
science aimed at tackling complex environmental questions. Strong interest and background
in the sciences will be an asset.

DEPARTMENT OF BIOCHEMISTRY (1)

Computational Biochemistry Research Assistant (Dr. Katie Wilson): The World Health
Organization has identified multidrug resistant bacteria as a serious global health threat. A
class of bacteria known as Gram-negative bacteria are particularly susceptible to antibiotic
resistance due to the complex structure of their cell membrane. Specifically, the cell
membrane is composed of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) molecules that protect the bacteria from
treats such as antibiotics. One possible route of treating antibiotic resistance infections is
targeting the bacterial membrane. The proposed work will use computer-based methodologies
to allow for a detailed visual investigation of the bacterial membrane and how drugs interact
with this membrane. Through using computer simulations we are able to gain information
about harmful bacteria without the risks associated with working with pathogenic bacteria in
the lab. The results gained through this work will pave the way for the creation of new
innovative strategies for combating antibiotic resistant bacteria.

DEPARTMENT OF GEOGRAPHY (3)

Plastics & Justice Laboratory Assistants (2) (Dr. Max Liboiron): Civic Laboratory for
Environmental Action Research (CLEAR) is an interdisciplinary natural and social science lab space
dedicated to justice-oriented methods in science. While we study plastic pollution (mainly in
Nunatsiavut with Inuit co-researchers), we work to bring lessons of feminism, equity,
anticolonialism, and accountability into the lab. Lab assistants are involved in processing wet
samples, attending mandatory weekly lab meetings, managing data, and working towards
creating and testing methods that foreground equity, humility, and good land relations. Sample
processing involves going through surface water, sediment, and the gastrointestinal tracts of
animals caught for food to look for microplastics using a microscope. Topics of lab meetings
change every week and are designed to workshop feminist and anticolonial methods. Note that
for WISE students who create or analyze data, we expect them to be co-authors on scientific
papers. For more information on our lab, see https://civiclaboratory.nl/

Ecology Research Assistant (Dr. Carissa Brown): The ecology research assistant will help graduate
students in the Northern EDGE Lab with their research on forests, plant ecology, and the impacts
of climate change. The student will assist with project on tree seedlings at the Botanical Garden
and plant surveys in the forest and coasts during day trips from Memorial University. We will train
the student for each of these projects, so no experience is required – just a love of the outdoors!
They will also learn how to do plant ecology lab work, including germination trials and analyzing
soil samples.

DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS & STATISTICS (1)

Research Assistant- Scientific Computing with Python (Dr. Ronald D. Haynes): The research
assistant will be given an introduction to python programming with particular application to
problems in scientific computing – solving mathematics problems on a computer and data
analysis.

SCHOOL OF PHARMACY (2)

Medicinal Chemistry of Drug Protein Binding Assistant (Dr. Laleh Alisaraie): The student will
learn about the chemistry of some drugs that are currently used clinically, their target
proteins, and their sites of action in the body. They will also learn the basics of how to
simulate drugs’ binding with their target proteins computationally. In addition, they will learn
more about the chemistry and biochemistry of the molecules involved and how to visualize
the drug-protein binding properties computationally using specific software packages.
Position can be done remotely.

Research Assistant in Drug Education (Dr. Lisa Bishop): The student will work on the Drug
Education Centred on Youth Decision Empowerment (DECYDE) project. The focus will be on
developing drug education materials for students in grades 8 to 12 and teachers with the aim
to empower youth to make safe and informed choices. Working closely with a team of faculty
and students from the areas of pharmacy, psychology, and education, the student will
provide a valuable youth perspective in turning scientific research on substance use and drug
education into resources and materials for their peers. The student will engage with a youth
advisory panel to support the development of materials, videos, and social media content.
They will also learn and develop research skills (e.g., literature reviews, analysis, and report
writing). Position can be done remotely.

FACULTY OF MEDICINE (3)

Research Assistant (Dr. Diana De Carvalho): Biomechanics Research Assistant working in the
lab assisting with data collection and processing.

Remote Research Assistant (Dr. Diana De Carvalho): This remote research assistant position
will help our team complete a systematic scoping review on electronic ergonomic
interventions to reduce musculoskeletal disorders.

Student Research Assistant (Dr. Michelle Ploughman): The Recovery and Performance lab
uses cutting edge technology to test and create novel interventions for people living with
stroke and multiple sclerosis. The successful applicant will be responsible for supporting
clinical research trials at the Recovery and Performance Lab by primarily assisting with data
collection and analysis. Duties include assisting the Laboratory Manager/Research Coordinator
with administrative tasks including: scheduling participant visits; preparing reports; ordering
supplies; collecting and entering data; interacting with study participants as part of a team.

THE OCEAN SCIENCES CENTRE (OSC), LOGY BAY (1)
NOTE: There is a shuttle bus service available to transport students from MUN St. John’s Campus to
the OSC

Research Assistant (Dr. Patrick Gagnon): To assist research on native and invasive marine
invertebrate and seaweed species. Responsibilities will include, but not be limited to: 1)
stereoscopic and microscopic analysis of biological tissues, 2) identification, counting, and
weighing of organisms, 3) quantification of animal behaviour, and 4) analysis of seabed
imagery acquired by divers. This work will be conducted in a laboratory setting. If interested,
the student will be offered opportunities to assist with frequent field work on board a
research vessel.

WOMEN IN SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING NL (WISE NL) (2)

WISE Website Content Developer (2) (Clare Graves): Students will spend 35 hours/week
assisting with the development and maintenance of web content on current WISE NL websites.
Tasks will include planning, developing and updating web content, end-user testing and
development of training materials and website launch and promotion. Students will become
familiar with WordPress, HTML and CSS (if applicable). This position will be offered remotely.

THE JOHNSON GEOCENTRE (2)

Science Interpreter (2) (Andrea van Nostrand): As a Summer Science Interpreter, the student
will learn about general science topics presented within the Johnson GEO CENTRE exhibit
galleries and play a vital role in helping us provide meaningful learning experiences for the
general public. Interpreter duties include presentation of daily programs to visitors of all
ages, interacting with the public, answering questions, researching answers, and conducting
science demonstrations. Depending on their interests and abilities, the student may also
have an opportunity to assist in our summer camps.

PETTY HARBOUR MINI AQUARIUM (Petty Harbor) (2)

Science Educator and Aquarist (2) (Keith Moore): Enjoy talking to people? Love the oceans?
Are you always asking questions? We are looking for curious, enthusiastic, outgoing
individuals who can engage and educate Mini Aquarium visitors about local marine life and
our oceans. As a member of our team, you will learn the skills to become an effective Science
Interpreter and Aquarist. Interpretation is the art of translating science into regular,
everyday language so that visitors can understand why sea stars (for example) are so cool!
Aquarist duties involve taking care of the animals – feeding, cleaning exhibits, and water
quality monitoring. You will be responsible for upholding our high level of public engagement
and one-on-one guest interactions (from exhibit tours & touch tank programs, to live
demonstrations & virtual reality programs), maintaining the appearance and cleanliness of
our exhibits, and assisting our curators with animal care. These positions will report directly
to the Mini Aquarium Education Manager.

MEMORIAL UNIVERSITY BOTANICAL GARDEN (1)

Nursery Research Assistant (Timothy Walsh): The successful applicant will work in a botanical
garden nursery and help to provide all the necessary care to all levels of a plant
development, from early propagation to plant maturity. The applicant will work inside a
greenhouse, hoophouse, coldhouse and alpine house as well as open field beds. We will
explore the common tasks of planting, watering, fertilizing, staking, pruning, and pest
control, and will also work on the aesthetics of horticulture and design with container
planting and special displays. The Nursery Research Assistant will also work on the gardens
ex-situ collections of rare and endangered plants of The Great Northern Peninsula, plus help
introduce the basics of horticulture to summer youth camp students.

MANUELS RIVER COMMUNITY INC. (2)

Education Intern- Camp Assistant (Justin Smith): Assist in the delivery and facilitation of
summer nature camp programs, engage with participants to ensure a positive STEM
educational experience, and support camp logistics and activity preparation.

Education Intern- Program Support (Justin Smith): Support the facilitation of STEM educational
programs and tours, assist in program logistics and participant engagement, and provide general
support across various activities as needed.

COLLEGE OF THE NORTH ATLANTIC (2)

Junior Applied Research Assistant (2) (Heather Ward): The Office of Applied Research and
Innovation (OARI) is dedicated to supporting local industry and community partners throughout
Newfoundland and Labrador. It serves as the College’s main point of contact for industry,
community groups and government interested in applied research collaborations focused on
solving real-world problems that impede the development and growth of our industries and
communities. OARI is seeking students who will work in support of a number of industry
engagement projects that are ongoing and/or pending that relate to productivity enhancement
through product, process, and/or organizational innovation. The duties of the Junior Applied
Research Assistant include but are not necessarily limited to the application of engineering best
practices and related analytical tools in support of productivity enhancement through product,
process, and organizational innovations.

AVALON LABORATORIES (1)

Laboratory Assistant (Suzette Winter): • Primarily responsible for providing support to
Laboratory Technologists and Discipline Leads as requested. Reports to Team Leads but daily
activities will be routinely directed by Laboratory Technologists and others as designated by the
Team Leads. • Responsible for ensuring glassware is cleaned and sterilized (as appropriate), and
ensuring all related quality control data has been appropriately documented. • May be
responsible for the operation and maintenance/cleaning of equipment, equipment calibrations,
and completion of related equipment quality records (i.e. autoclaves, fume hoods, balances,
water baths, incubators, chillers, refrigerators and other laboratory equipment). • May be
required to assist Laboratory Technologists with sample preparations (labelling and weighing) and
routine sample initiations (pH, conductivity, alkalinity, etc.). • May be responsible for sample
receipt and log-in. • Duties assigned with reference to detailed oral and/or written instructions as
to methods and procedures in accordance with established codes, standards and other
specifications as detailed in the ISO 17025 Management System. Few technical decisions are
required and those are of a routine nature with ample precedent and clearly defined procedures
for guidance. • Aware of and follows occupational health and safety regulations and ensures
appropriate safety procedures are implemented in the laboratory. • Other duties as assigned.
Skills and Qualifications: • Must have general knowledge of scientific principles, laboratory
methods and equipment. Supervision Received/ Exercised: • Works under supervision and duties
are assigned with detailed oral and written instructions as to methods and procedures to be
followed. Work is reviewed for accuracy, adequacy and conformance with prescribed procedures.
Technical guidance is always available.

NORTHEAST AVALON ACAP (1)

Environmental Technician (Gabrielle Riefesel): The environmental technician will assist the
project coordinator during fieldwork on ongoing research projects with the organization.
Fieldwork will include the removal of the invasive species European green crab, water quality
assessments through in-situ water grab sampling and using a diametric probe to collect data on
water quality parameters. The environmental technician will post process collected data in
accordance with our company’s data management plan. With the guidance of the project
coordinator, the environmental technician will digitize data using Microsoft Excel and organize
media data such as photos and videos into project folders. The environmental technician will
compile collected data and photos to create science communication media pieces for our
company’s social media accounts.

WESTERN NEWFOUNDLAND (1)

GRENFELL CAMPUS (Corner Brook) (1)

Physics Outreach Student Coordinator (Dr. Svetlana Barkanova): The successful candidate will
work collaboratively on-site with the Grenfell Campus Office of Engagement, assisting with
the development of Physics in the Classroom Programming and delivering/developing
materials for youth-focused physics outreach at the Memorial University Community Hubs.
The position involves developing materials, collaborating with internal and external partners,
coordinating events, and delivering public outreach, including youth outreach. The ideal
candidate will be reliable and responsible, possessing strong organizational skills, and have
the ability to work independently.