Graduate student opportunities

The MinXAI lab is actively recruiting Masters (MSc) and Doctoral (PhD) students for graduate research opportunities related to mineral systems and AI applications in geoscience. Current and upcoming MSc and PhD projects within the MinXAI lab provide training in field and quantitative methods, preparing students for careers in academia, industry, or applied research.

Who can apply? The MinXAI lab welcome inquiries from prospective MSc and PhD students with backgrounds in geoscience, computer science, data science and related disciplines. At the MinXAI lab, we recognize that the best ideas come from diverse perspectives. That’s why the MinXAI lab is committed to creating an inclusive space where students from all backgrounds feel welcome, supported, and empowered to lead. Prospective students are encouraged to contact me by email to learn more about current and upcoming MSc and PhD research projects.

Current MSc and PhD projects

🚨MSc Research Opportunity. RAP bursary available to interested and qualified candidates for more than $24k CAD per year to apply mineral geochemistry to mineral exploration. Research conducted in collaboration with the Geological Survey of Canada and the MinXAI lab (MinXAI.ca) at Carleton University. Who can #apply? Preference will be given to #Canadians and permanent residents for the RAP bursary. Please fill out this form today if you are interested in applying: https://lnkd.in/ewMeJh6q

🚨 What drives gold mineral systems in the Abitibi? Are gold deposits related to global geodynamics and Large Igneous Provinces? Carleton is seeking one MSc student to work on these research question in collaboration with Richard Ernst, Hafida EL BILALI, and Agnico Eagle Mines Limited. September 2026 start with secure graduate student funding, fieldwork, industry links, contact me for details. Successful candidate will gain valuable data analytics and structural geology skills.

Principal Investigator (MSc and PhD Supervisor)

Christopher Lawley is an associate professor in the Department of Earth Sciences at Carleton University. Lawley completed his PhD at Durham University in 2012 and then worked as a research scientist at the Geological Survey of Canada between 2012 and 2025. His geoscience research blends analytical method development with field studies to investigate the timing, drivers, and sources of mineral systems. More recently, Lawley has focused on the application of artificial intelligence to support the minerals industry. His research has featured in new articles, mining magazines, and was awarded the William Harvey Gross Medal and the Logan Medallion. Lawley is currently registered as a professional geoscientist in Ontario and is a fellow of the Society of Economic Geologists. I am currently accepting MSc and PhD graduate research students. Please contact me by the email below to find out more about current and upcoming research opportunities!