Cardou Lab

 

Are you fascinated by how people and ecosystems interact—especially in cities? Our lab investigates how we affect nature (usually plants) and how it affects us in return. We study these dynamics through the lenses of plant, and community ecology, using field surveys, functional traits and remote sensing, often working closely with partners to co-develop applied, useful knowledge. As such, our work is interdisciplinary by nature, bridging ecology with urban planning, geomatics, ecophysiology, and more.

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Whether in the field, at the computer, or in conversation with collaborators, we value curiosity, open-mindedness, and a commitment to making a meaningful difference. We aim to foster a welcoming, collaborative, and inspiring environment for students at all levels. We encourage applications from individuals with diverse experiences, including those from equity-deserving groups, and from students pursuing research after time outside academia.

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Current opportunities tied with specific projects will be posted in the Opportunities section. Outside of these specific calls, we welcome inquiries from undergraduate students, prospective graduate students (MSc and PhD), postdoctoral fellows, as well as visiting students and research interns (e.g., Mitacs Globalink, international exchange programs).

 

Undergraduate Students

I routinely supervise undergraduate research interns, especially those interested in in honours, summer research, or independent study projects. Opportunities may be course-based, part of research assistantships, or supported by funding such as UCalgary PURE awards or NSERC USRA. The best time to contact us for:

• USRA applications: November​

• Fall-term projects: August

• Summer research/fieldwork: December–January

 

Graduate Students (MSc & PhD)

Outside of funded opportunities, I am happy to co-develop graduate research projects that align with both your interests and the lab’s ongoing work with students elligible for external scholarships. I strongly encourage prospective students to get in touch well in advance of the fall funding season, and to look at our research page to draw inspiration from.

 

I find real satisfaction in interdisciplinary work, and graduate students should free to reach out if you're interested in co-supervision or projects that bridge disciplines (e.g., ecology + planning or policy).

 

Postdoctoral Researchers

While I rarely have internal funding to support postdocs outside of advertised positions, I’m always happy to collaborate on external fellowship applications. Please reach out early to discuss potential project directions and how I can support your application! Major awards in Canada that provide postdoctoral support include:

• NSERC Postdoctoral Fellowship

• Liber Ero Fellowship​​