Graduate School Opportunities
Graduate School Opportunities Listings will be kept for a month after being posted or until their deadline (if listed). I do not post positions that require a masters degree, as this site is aimed at undergraduates. Please send any opportunities not listed here by clicking on this link:
PhD Position in Plant-Insect Interactions at Texas Christian University
*PhD position*:
A fully-funded PhD student position, funded by a teaching assistantship, is available in the lab of Dr. Annika Nelson in the Department of Biology at Texas Christian University (TCU) starting in August 2024. Research in the lab focuses on answering questions concerning the ecology and evolution of plant-animal interactions, and often uses data collected from the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory in western Colorado. The PhD student will conduct research to support a project centered on the population, community, or chemical ecology of ant-hemipteran or seed dispersal mutualisms (depending on student interest). The project is designed to give the student opportunities to learn and apply techniques in the field and lab to answer questions about the sources of context-dependency in species interactions. Applicants should send a CV, a cover letter describing their research interests and reasons for applying, unofficial undergrad (or MS) transcripts, and the names and contact details of THREE potential academic referees to Dr. Annika Nelson (annikasn@uci.edu).
For more details on the Department of Biology at TCU and the graduate program, please see https://cse.tcu.edu/biology/graduate-programs/index.php
For more information about the type of research that will be done in the Nelson lab, please see https://annikanelsonlab.weebly.com/
https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=zozBz40AAAAJ&hl=en
Dr. Annika Nelson
Incoming Assistant Professor (starting August 2024)
Department of Biology
Texas Christian University
2800 S University Drive
Fort Worth, Texas 76109
940-368-9081
Qualifications
The candidate should have or be expected to have (by August 2024) an undergraduate degree in biology or related discipline with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Previous research experience, ideally in ecology or a related field, is required. Interested applicants should send a CV, a cover letter describing their research interests and reasons for applying, unofficial transcripts, and the names and contact details of THREE potential referees to Dr. Annika Nelson (annikasn@uci.edu). Review of applicants will begin immediately.
Posted 5/10/24
Plus One MS opportunities in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Tulane University
The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology in the School of Science and Engineering at Tulane University (https://sse.tulane.edu/eebio) encourages applications to our Plus One MS program, a one-year, non-thesis MS program.
The Plus One degree program is designed for students who are interested in seeking employment with environmental agencies of federal, state, and municipal government; non-governmental organizations; and in private industry, including environmental consulting firms. The program also will be useful for students planning to enter more advanced professional degree programs (e.g., law, public health, medicine, veterinary medicine, natural resources management) and for students intent on pursuing additional academic training (e.g., Ph.D. degree programs). The program is also useful for students seeking to strengthen teaching skills and pedagogy for a future career in education.
Students have freedom to design the program to meet their educational and professional needs, but typically elect to pursue one of three loosely defined tracks in the program:
(1) Research, in which students work closely with a tenured or tenure-track faculty mentor, with the goal of strengthening research capacity and potentially producing a peer-reviewed publication; these students typically use this track as a steppingstone to a Ph.D. program in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology or a related field.
(2) Pedagogy, in which students work closely with one or more teaching faculty mentors, with the goal of strengthening teaching experience and skills, including the option to serve as a Teaching Fellow in EBIO 1010, Diversity of Life; these students typically go on to teach at the high school or elementary school level or otherwise engage in educational activities.
(3) Knowledge base, in which students work with the Graduate Studies coordinator or other faculty member to identify courses required to bolster transcripts and knowledge base; these students typically go on to apply to professional degree programs such as law, medical, or veterinary schools or join the workforce.
We have established a strong track record of assisting Plus One students to meet their professional and educational goals. Recent graduates from the program are currently in highly regarded PhD programs, law schools, medical schools and vet schools; teaching in high schools; and working in industry and governmental and non-governmental agencies.
Our department houses a strong team of outstanding researchers and educators, with established strengths in coastal and tropical systems. We are committed to promoting diversity in STEM, and particularly welcome applications from members of groups that are traditionally under-represented in the field of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology.
Students are encouraged to directly contact the faculty member or members they are interested in working with as advisors.
Dr. Hank Bart (Email: hbartjr@tulane.edu; Website: http://people.tubri.org/hank/), whose research focuses on ecology and systematics of freshwater fishes and amphibians
Dr. Samridhi Chaturvedi (Email: schaturvedi@tulane.edu; Website: https://chaturvedi-lab.wp.tulane.edu/), whose research focuses on evolutionary biology using an "omics" approach.
Dr. Jelagat Cheruiyot (Email: dcheruiyot@tulane.edu), a Senior Professor of the Practice who can advise students interested in pedagogy, as well as in research on plants and animal interactions, elemental defense, biointeraction between elements and organic defense chemicals, and the trophic transfer of elements.
Dr. Keith Clay (Email: clay@tulane.edu), whose research focuses on symbiotic interactions and their effect on larger scale ecological and evolutionary processes, utilizing a variety of systems from vertebrates to bacteria, with an emphasis on plants and fungi.
Dr. Emily Farrer (Email: efarrer@tulane.edu; Website: https://emilyfarrer.wordpress.com), whose research focuses on the effects of climate change on plant-microbe interactions, with a focus on invasive species, wetlands, alpine, and grasslands.
Dr. Hannah Frank (Email: hannah.kim.frank@gmail.com; Website: https://www.hkfrank.com), whose research focuses on evolutionary ecology, molecular evolution and evolutionary immunology, particularly in bats.
Dr. Kathleen Ferris (Email: kferris@tulane.edu; Website: https://kathleengferristulane.wordpress.com), whose research addresses quantitative and population genetics of natural plant populations, speciation, and plant ecology.
Dr. Alex Gunderson (Email: agunderson@tulane.edu; Website: http://www.physiologicalecology.com), who research focuses on physiological and evolutionary ecology, global change biology, and herpetology.
Dr. Donata Henry (Email: droome@tulane.edu; Website: https://donatahenry.com), a Senior Professor of the Practice who advises students in pedagogy, as well as research on avian ecology, behavioral ecology, conservation, and the natural history of Louisiana.
Dr. Jordan Karubian (Email: jk@tulane.edu; Website: http://karubian.tulane.edu), who works in tropical ecology and conservation in Ecuador with local partners at FCAT (https://fcat-ecuador.org)
Dr. Tim McLean (Email: tmclean1@tulane.edu), a Senior Professor of the Practice who can advise students interested in pedagogy, as well as research on molecular ecology and marine biology.
Dr. Renata Ribeiro (Email: rduraes@tulane.edu; Website: http://duraesribeiro.tulane.edu/), a Professor of the Practice who can advise students interested in pedagogy, as well as research on avian ecology and behavior, and evolution, tropical ecology, and conservation.
Dr. Brian Sidlauskas (Email brian.sidlauskas@oregonstate.edu; Website: https://agsci.oregonstate.edu/users/brian-sidlauskas), whose research focuses on ichthyology, systematics, evolution, biodiversity and conservation of fishes.
Dr. Julia Sonn (Email: jsonn@tulane.edu), a Professor of the Practice who can advise students interested in pedagogy, as well as research on fungal ecology and herpetology.
Dr. Caz Taylor (Email: caz@tulane.edu; Website: http://caz.tulane.edu), whose research focuses on population biology of migratory species, urban ecology, and wetlands ecology.
Dr. Sunshine Van Bael (Email: svanbael@tulane.edu; Website: http://vanbaellab.wp.tulane.edu), whose research addresses tropical ecology, plant-insect-fungal interactions, multi-trophic interactions, coastal and wetland ecology
To find out more about the Plus One program, see: https://sse.tulane.edu/eebio/plus-one-non-thesis-ms-program
For any general inquiries or more information, please contact Graduate Studies Coordinator Dr. Emily Farrer at efarrer@tulane.edu
Posted 5/8/24
Online GIS Master's Degree from Michigan Tech: Applications are Open Fall 2024
TAKE THE FIRST STEP TOWARDS BECOMING A GISCIENCE PROFESSIONAL!
This is Parth Bhatt reaching out to inform you about a new online 9-credit graduate certificate from Michigan Tech's College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science: Foundations in GIScience for Natural Resources. This comprehensive 9-credit certificate, available in Fall 2024,is one of the three comprising our innovative, multidisciplinary online master's degree in GIScience (available in 2025).
As an experienced instructor with a wealth of international experience in GIS, Remote Sensing, GPS, and more, I am excited to share my expertise with students and help them build their valuable GIScience toolkits.
Why Earn Your Online GIScience Cert. from MTU?
FLEXIBILITY & CHOICE
Our asynchronous program can fit around your busy schedule, allowing you to balance work, life, and education seamlessly. You can earn this certificate alone or take all three to build your MGIS degree.
VERSATILE SKILLS
You will gain not only practical skills but also hands-on experience with modern GIS tools, such as the following:
ArcPro
ArcGIS Online
Survey123
FieldMaps
Avenza Maps and more
I'm an image
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Whether you�re looking to enhance your current role or pivot to a new career, you will acquire job-ready skills that are in-demand in various industries, such as forestry, natural resource management, urban planning, and environmental and civil engineering.
I'm confident, too, that as the field evolves, those with GIScience expertise will find additional opportunities in other emerging areas and industries that leverage location-based data for crucial decision-making and necessary innovation.
If you are interested in pursuing this certificate or acquiring more information, contact me at ppbhatt@mtu.edu. Alternatively, if you know of students or fellow professionals who need GIScience skills and expertise, please share this email broadly.
Sincerely,
Dr. Parth Bhatt
Assistant Teaching Professor / Researcher
College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science
PS. Michigan Tech Global Campus also has an admissions advisor, Amanda Irwin, who is dedicated to helping students choose programs and complete the application process. You can reach her at 906-487-1000 or at globalcampus@mtu.edu.
Request Information
Start Application
Posted 5/8/24
M.S. positions in Marine Conservation and Resource Management
The University of South Alabama's Stokes School of Marine & Environmental Sciences is excited to offer the Master of Science program in Marine Conservation and Resource Management. The program is designed for students with Bachelor degrees who want to engage in greater professional development. The program does not require a formal thesis but instead allows students to complete degree requirements through formal course work and professional training through either a professional internship, capstone project with conservation organizations and state/federal resource agencies, or skill certification such as GIS or statistics. The curriculum and other requirements are also well suited to students currently in the workforce. Some funding opportunities are available through internships and limited scholarships are available to defray the costs of out-of-state tuition. Additional financial aid may be available through the USA Office of Financial Aid.
Applications are due by June 15 for the Fall semester and October 15 for the Spring semester, although most students start during the Fall semester. For further information and to apply, please see: https://www.southalabama.edu/colleges/artsandsci/marinesciences/ConservationandResourceManagement.html
Please contact Ashley Martin for more details: ashleymartin@southalabama.edu
Posted 5/8/24
PhD Assistantship - Avian biodiversity response to environmental change
We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student to spearhead a project focused on understanding the synergistic effects of climate, broad scale land use change, and local land management on distributions of breeding birds on protected lands in the Southeast. This is a fully funded position in the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment at Auburn University and the student will be co-advised by Dr. Jonathon Valente (https://www.JonathonValente.com/) and Dr. Christopher Lepczyk (http://cfwe.auburn.edu/profile/christopher-lepczyk/). Candidates should have a strong interest in population ecology, species distribution modeling, and remote sensing. The project will also involve a substantial field component, and the successful candidate would ideally have experience conducting avian point counts, supervising personnel, interacting with landowners, and be comfortable working in remote settings. The overall goal of the research project will revolve around understanding how distributions of breeding birds have responded to historical changes in environmental factors and predicting future responses in coming decades. However, selected students will be encouraged to develop their own research questions within the scope of this project, which could revolve around source-sink dynamics, habitat selection, predictive modeling, species distribution modeling, fragmentation, management, integrated population modeling, and methodological development.
This research is being conducted as part of a larger multi-taxa effort to understand how management activities impact biodiversity. Selected students will have the opportunity to collaborate with a large team of AU faculty and graduate students, and biologists from the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. The project will involve field-based sampling in 6 ecoregions (Interior Low Plateau, Southwestern Appalachians, Ridge and Valey, Piedmont, Southeastern Plains, and Southern Coastal Plain) throughout Alabama, the most biodiverse U.S. state east of the Mississippi River.
The position start dates are flexible but will ideally begin either the Fall semester of 2024 (August 19th) or the Spring semester of 2025 (January 13th). Prospective candidates should be highly motivated, interested in developing field- and computer-based skills, and have a strong background in one or more of the following areas: ecology, biology, zoology, wildlife, population modeling, species distribution modeling, or a related field.
The lab groups of Drs. Valente and Lepczyk are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse, positive, and inclusive environment. We listen to, learn from, and support all voices in our labs and expect other members of our lab groups to do the same.
Required Qualifications
� Bachelor's degree in Wildlife, Biology, Ecology, Zoology, or other closely related field
� Strong communication skills in oral and written English
� Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team
� Self-motivation, a positive attitude, and strong interpersonal skills
� A commitment to building a safe, inclusive, and respectful working space for people of all backgrounds, perspectives, and abilities
Desired Qualifications:
� MS degree in Wildlife, Biology, Ecology, Zoology, or other closely related field is preferred, but strong candidates without a MS will be considered
� Experience presenting and publishing peer-reviewed research
� Experience working with government agencies
� Experience with logistical coordination of field work and personnel, avian point counts, population modeling, species distribution modeling, Bayesian data analysis, GIS software, and the R statistical programming language
Salary: $30,000 per year plus tuition remission and benefits
How to Apply:
Interested individuals should contact Dr. Jonathon Valente (jjv0016@auburn.edu) and Dr. Christopher Lepczyk (lepczyk@auburn.edu) with any questions. To apply, please state "Avian PhD Assistantship Position" in the email subject line to both addresses and include (1) a cover letter that states why you are interested in and qualified for the position, (2) a CV, (3) unofficial transcripts, (4) contact information for 3 references, and (5) TOFEL scores if applicable. Applications are due by May 31st, but we encourage you to apply as soon as possible because applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis. More information about our graduate program can be found here: https://cfwe.auburn.edu/graduate-study/graduate-degrees/
About Auburn: Auburn was named by Forbes Magazine as one of the state of Alabama's best employers, with employees staying an average of ten years! Learn more about Auburn's impact, generous employee benefits, and thriving community by visiting aub.ie/working-for-auburn.
It's a Lifestyle: The Auburn/Opelika area is a page right out of Southern Living magazine with an idyllic small-town feel, perfecting a unique balance between a close-knit community and driving consistent growth and development. Paralleling the exponential growth of Auburn University, the Auburn/Opelika area boasts services and amenities that cater to any interest. We're proud of our top school systems, city services, award-winning restaurants, and the infectious spirit of life in a college town. You can find us nestled halfway between the beach and the mountains in a lower-cost-of-living area, two hours outside of Atlanta or Birmingham. If you're new to Auburn, we'd love to introduce you. If you're already acquainted with Auburn, we'll keep it simple: it's time to come home!
Our Commitment: Auburn University is committed to a diverse and inclusive campus environment. Visit www.auburn.edu/inclusion to learn more about our commitment to expanding equity and inclusion for all.
AUBURN UNIVERSITY IS AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. It is our policy to provide equal employment opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, sex, religion, color, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by applicable law.
Posted 5/7/24
MS Research Assistantship - Pollinators and Floral Resources of Thornforest - South Texas
We are inviting applications for a graduate position (MS) to participate in characterizing floral resources used by pollinators in Tamaulipan thornscrub. The appointment will begin Fall semester 2024.
The Tamaulipan thornscrub is a threatened and heavily fragmented habitat in south Texas and northeastern Mexico, making restoration a conservation priority. Important restoration efforts for the last three decades have lacked information regarding floral resources used by pollinators, neglecting support for the pollinator community in reforestation. The thesis project will focus on pollinator preferences, floral resource availability and phenology. The goal is to inform future restoration efforts. Opportunities exist for participating in research activities in on-going thornforest and estuarine restoration and construction of a plant barcode library.
Applicants must have a Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology or a related field. Successful candidates must demonstrate an aptitude/interest for research, good communication skills, and the ability to work independently. Prior experience in native plant communities, plant biology, and/or insect ecology is preferred but not required. The project includes conducting fieldwork, occasionally under hot weather conditions. A current, valid U.S. driver's license and good driving record is also preferred. The successful applicant will be expected to enroll full time in the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Biology MS program pursuing the thesis option. The position is USDA funded and has a tuition scholarship covering four consecutive regular semesters in addition to a stipend of $18,000 per year.
Interested applicants should send to Dr. Alejandro Fierro (alejandro.fierrocabo@utrgv.edu) and Dr. Julie Mustard (julie.mustard@utrgv.edu) a copy of their CV or resume, GPA (minimum 3.0) and GRE scores (not required for admission, but send them if available), transcripts (can be unofficial), a written statement of graduate research interests, and contact information for two references. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.
Posted 5/3/24
M.S. Assistantship in Feeding Ecology of Native Freshwater Mussels in the Columbia River at WSU Vancouver
Dr. Gretchen Rollwagen-Bollens and Dr. Stephen Bollens, Co-Directors of the Aquatic Ecology Lab at Washington State University, Vancouver, WA, USA have one paid position available for a new master�s degree student to start in August 2024. Please apply by May 25, 2024.
This M.S. assistantship will specifically support a student to conduct research related to the feeding dynamics of native freshwater mussels (i.e., grazing on phytoplankton and microzooplankton) in the lower Columbia River.
The successful graduate student will be supported on a combination of Research Assistantships and Teaching Assistantships, plus full tuition waivers and health benefits. Graduate students at WSU are covered by a collective bargaining agreement, resulting in stipends for M.S. students at WSU Vancouver of $2,974/month.
Please visit our website for more information about the lab and our research (https://labs.wsu.edu/aquatic-ecology/). Our group is committed to supporting the professional development of diverse students in aquatic science, with a focus on equity and inclusion in all aspects of our research, collaboration, and mentoring. We welcome applications from students who will contribute to this mission.
Degree program: M.S. in Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences
Deadline: For admission to our graduate program, we are currently accepting applications, with priority given to those who apply by May 25, 2024. For further information about the graduate programs in Environmental Science, and for instructions on how to apply, please visit the website (https://cas.vancouver.wsu.edu/science-graduate-programs).
Contact: Please contact Dr. Gretchen Rollwagen-Bollens (rollboll@wsu.edu) or Dr. Stephen Bollens (sbollens@wsu.edu) for further information and before applying to the program.
Campus and Facilities: Washington State University Vancouver is one of five campuses in the WSU system, and is located within the greater Portland, OR-Vancouver, WA metropolitan area, near the Columbia River, Cascade Mountains and coastal ocean. The 351-acre campus offers new, state-of-the-art classroom and research facilities, where teaching and research are conducted in an interdisciplinary and collaborative atmosphere. WSU Vancouver is a welcoming campus to faculty, students and staff of all backgrounds, is actively dedicated to equity and diversity, and is a two-time recipient of the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award from Insight Into Diversity Magazine (2019 and 2023).
Dr. Gretchen Rollwagen-Bollens (she/her)
Associate Professor
School of the Environment
Washington State University
14204 NE Salmon Creek Ave
Vancouver, WA 98686
Office: 360-546-9115
Email: rollboll@wsu.edu
Lab: https://labs.wsu.edu/aquatic-ecology/
Posted 5/2/24
Teaching assistantships (TAs) at Louisiana State University, $23K/9mo
The Louisiana State University's Department of Environmental Sciences has multiple funded positions for doctoral students. Positions are available in a diversity of research groups. Applications are invited from students interested in microbiology, molecular biology, food webs, geographic information systems (GIS), environmental chemistry, toxicology, landscape ecology, law, social science, colloid and surface science, environmental policy and management, resilience, phytoplankton ecology, and renewable energy systems.
Successful candidates will likely have a GPA of at least 3.0, prior research experiences, and prerequisite courses, such as introductory statistics, chemistry, biology, and other natural sciences. Applicant must be attentive to detail, mature, responsible, capable of thinking critically and working independently, and meticulous.
The preliminary stipend is $23,000 per 9 months, and summer months will be further funded based on the student's research productivity. Tuition costs are covered by the department, but fees are not. The student will spend an average of 20 hours/week on dissertation research in their respective research group and 20 hours/week serving as a departmental teaching assistant (TA) in cooperation with LSU Online. TA duties will include assisting with existing courses, e.g., ENVS 1126, ENVS 2126, and other large-enrollment courses. TA duties will also include the development, administration, and delivery of novel ENVS courses and assessments.
Standardized tests are encouraged but not required. The most successful candidates will have GRE scores of at least 150 verbal and 150 quantitative. Preferred TOEFL scores for international students are at least 213 computer, 550 paper, or 80 internet-based.
If interested, the applicant should first identify a preferred faculty mentor by evaluating faculty websites available at https://www.lsu.edu/cce/about/cce-directories/envs-directory.php. Then, the applicant should submit application materials to that faculty member, ideally by June 1, 2024. Application materials may include unofficial transcripts, the contact information for 3 references, a personal statement, resume/CV, GRE scores, papers that include the applicant as an author, the name of the preferred faculty mentor, and other products that support the application.
After preliminary evaluation by the faculty member, finalists will be invited to submit a formal application to the LSU Graduate School for the Department of Environmental Sciences. Teaching assistantships begin in Fall of 2024. LSU is committed to diversity and is an equal opportunity / equal access employer.
Posted 5/1/24
English Master's programme in Ecology in the Czech Republic
The University of South Bohemia in the Czech Republic offers a research-oriented 2-year Master's programme in Ecology, which is taught in English. The courses focus on ecological theory and analysis as well as the interpretation of ecological data using modern computational methods. The emphasis is on the students' own research.
The deadline for applications for the coming winter semester (from September 2024) is 19 May 2024.
Further details and the link for application documents can be found at https://www.prf.jcu.cz/ecology. Please contact Petr Blazek (blazek@prf.jcu.cz) for further questions.
Posted 4/27/24
Funded MS Environmental Science Grad Assistantship position at DePaul University
DePaul University
Environmental Science and Studies
Graduate Assistant Position
The MS Environmental Science program at DePaul University is recruiting for one (1) two-year DEI Graduate Assistantship (GA) for a thesis student beginning* the program in Fall 2024.
This student GA will receive a partial tuition remission (48 of 52 credit hours) as well as a 13 hour per week stipend ($19/hour) during academic quarters (three (3), 10-week quarters per academic year).
During the 2024-2025 academic year (AY), 60% of the student's GA time will support the Environmental Science and Studies Department's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts, with 40% of the student's time dedicated to their thesis research. During AY2025-26 thesis research time will comprise 70% of the GA's hours, with 30% time on DEI work; the student is expected to complete their master's thesis at the end of this second academic year, in Spring Quarter 2026.
Diverse candidates encouraged to apply.
*Current students in the program who have completed fewer than eight credit hours by the end of spring quarter 2024 are also eligible to apply.
Thesis research topics: Students interested in applying for this GA position are strongly encouraged to reach out to current Environmental Science and Studies (ENV) faculty to discuss potential thesis research topics and opportunities before completing an application. Competitive applicants for the GA position will have determined a potential research topic and secured the willingness of a faculty member to advise their thesis research.
To apply: Please submit your application for the MS Environmental Science program through the graduate school website (https://grad.depaul.edu/apply/) ,where you will be asked to submit basic applicant information, transcripts for all previous universities attended, 1-2 letters of recommendation, and a Personal Statement.
IMPORTANT: To be considered for the funded GA position: After the main text of your ~1-page Personal Statement, please answer the following questions after a bolded section heading reading, �Additional Questions for GA Applicants." (If you've already applied and been admitted to the program for Fall 2024, please re-submit your application materials and amended personal statement with the following questions to cklimas@depaul.edu to be considered for the GA position.)
1. Please indicate your interest in and preparedness for graduate-level research in the environmental sciences. Describe here any previous research experiences, as well as any professional or volunteer experiences that might be relevant to your potential thesis research. (Max. 400 words)
2. Please briefly describe the faculty and/or research project you would like to work on if admitted to the MS Environmental Science program. It is strongly encouraged that you look at ENV faculty websites and reach out to current ENV faculty members to discuss potential MS thesis research topics/projects; if you have spoken with a professor, especially if you have secured their support as a potential thesis research advisor, please indicate this in your reply to this question. (Max. 400 words)
3. What does diversity, equity, or inclusion mean to you? Please describe your values related to DEI and your experiences working with diverse populations. We are especially looking for students with a demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in personal, professional, and/or volunteer capacity. Please mention specific past activities and experiences. Especially during Year 1, the student chosen for this GA position will support the Environmental Science and Studies Department's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts. You can read more about the ENV department's current DEI efforts on our website. (Max. 400 words)
Timeline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and admissions decisions are made ~4 weeks after you submit your application. To be considered for the GA position, students must submit their application before June 7, 2024. Priority will be given to applications received by May 19th. All applications for the GA position submitted before the deadline will be evaluated competitively and the admitted student awarded the GA position will be notified by the end of June or sooner.
Criteria for Applicant Evaluation: Applicants for the GA position will be evaluated on their academic qualifications and program fit; meeting the program prerequisites; preparedness for graduate-level research; faculty advisor and research fit; and demonstrated diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.
Questions/Contact: With any question about this position or the program in general, please contact MS Environmental Science Program Director and ENV faculty member Dr. Christie Klimas cklimas@depaul.edu
Posted 4/27/24
PhD Student Opportunity: "Forever Chemicals" in Florida's Freshwater Fish
Join the Florida LAKEWATCH lab (https://lakewatch.ifas.ufl.edu/) and unravel the complex associations of per- and poly- fluorindated substances (PFAS) and herbicides in sub-tropical freshwater fish! Want more info? See the full ad here: https://lakewatch.ifas.ufl.edu/employment-and-student-opportunities/
-Important topic at the forefront of environmental science!
-Interdisciplinary research team and dynamic department.
-Potential for extensive field & lab work.
-Fully funded for 4 years (minimum $30K/year stipend + benefits)!
How to Apply: Please submit a CV and cover letter outlining your research interests and qualifications, along with a copy of your academic transcripts (unofficial) and contact information for three references to Dr. Gretchen Lescord, lescord.g@ufl.edu by June 1/2024 for full consideration.
Project Description: Under the guidance of Dr. Gretchen Lescord at the School of Forests, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences (SFFGS), University of Florida, this project will examine the presence and ecological behavior of PFAS in Florida's freshwater ecosystems. PFAS, commonly referred to as "forever chemicals," have raised concerns due to their persistence and health impacts. There is therefore an urgent need to assess their presence on understudied freshwater ecosystems. Additionally, while herbicides are commonly used to manage invasive aquatic plants in Florida, their potential association with PFAS and the ecological consequences thereof are poorly understood.
Your Role: As a PhD student leading this project, you will have the opportunity to design and conduct field measurements and laboratory experiments to investigate PFAS and herbicide behavior and associations in Florida's lakes and rivers. Funding and infrastructure are available to support a range of lab and field activities; additional funding applications for enhanced research will be supported. You will be a member of the Florida LAKEWATCH program at SFFGS, which strives to be a supportive learning environment that enables integral, innovative, and impactful research. We will work alongside experts from the UF Center for Human and Environmental Toxicology and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC), benefiting from a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment. This collaboration also ensures a comprehensive approach to addressing complex environmental challenges.
Qualifications: We are seeking one PhD candidate with a strong background in environmental science, ecology, analytical chemistry, or related fields. Candidates should demonstrate excellent analytical skills, a passion for environmental research, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic research setting. Ideally, a M.Sc. program will have been completed before the candidate begins. Additionally, candidates should have exceptional communication skills and an interest in participatory science and the Florida LAKEWATCH program's outreach efforts. Please note that M.Sc. applications for this project are not being considered at this time.
Admissions and funding. The home department of the successful candidate will be the Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences Program, School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences in UF/IFAS. Guidelines and requirements for graduate school admissions, which the selected candidate is responsible for successfully completing, should be reviewed prior to applying. The position will be funded for 4 years (PhD) through a graduate research assistantship at a minimum of $30K USD/year plus tuition support; final stipend amounts are negotiable.
Apply now! Don't miss this opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research at the forefront of environmental science. Join our team and make a meaningful impact on the management and conservation of freshwater ecosystems. Feel free to reach out to Dr. Lescord with any questions or for additional information (lescord.g@ufl.edu).
Posted 4/27/24
Graduate research assistantship, Louisiana State University, $30,667 per 12 months
Dr. Crystal N. Johnson in the Louisiana State University Department of Environmental Sciences is seeking 1 Ph.D. student interested in conducting a collaborative microbiome study. Mastery of methods such as real-time PCR, metagenomics, and bioinformatics is highly valued. The project will include some field work in Louisiana (10%), work in a BSL-2 laboratory (70%), and work on local and remote computers (20%). The student will be responsible for supervising up to two undergraduate researchers. More background information on Dr. Johnson can be found at https://www.lsu.edu/cce/about/cce-directories/faculty-profiles/johnson_crystal.php.
Successful candidates will likely have a GPA of at least 3.0, prior laboratory experiences, and mastery in preparatory courses, such as microbiology, molecular biology, introductory statistics, and computational biology. Applicant must be mature, responsible, capable of thinking critically and working independently, meticulous, and highly attentive to detail. Some field collections will be urgent (e.g., less than 24 hours notice) and will include occasional weekends. The candidate will have a bachelor's or master's degree in a science field.
The stipend is $30,667 per 12 months. Tuition costs are covered by the grant, but fees are not. Other optional tests include GRE (ideally with scores of at least 150 verbal and 150 quantitative) and TOEFL for international students (ideally with scores of at least 213 computer, 550 paper, or 80 internet-based).
If interested, submit application materials to cnjohnson@lsu.edu with the number 49376436 in the subject line, ideally by June 15, 2024. Application materials may include unofficial transcripts, the contact information for 3 references, a personal statement, resume/CV, GRE scores, papers that include the applicant as an author, and other products that support the application. After interviews and evaluation, the finalist will submit a formal application to the LSU Graduate School for the Department of Environmental Sciences. The graduate assistantship begins in fall of 2024 (August 2024).
Posted 4/25/24
Fully funded MS or PhD Assistantship Starting Fall 2024 UMaine
About the position: The research group of Dr. Sydne Record seeks applicants for one M.S or Ph.D. position in Ecology and Environmental Sciences at the University of Maine in Orono in the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Conservation Biology starting in September 2024. Our research group focuses on population and community ecology from a biogeographical perspective. We apply computational methods to data from various environmental observatory networks to explore ecological dynamics across space and time. We are a highly collaborative group that values team science.
This is a fully funded assistantship with funding from UMaine and the Northeastern States Research Cooperative to map forest connectivity for wildlife using theory and remote sensing. This project will utilize in-situ data from the United States Forest Inventory and Analysis and the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) and imagery from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, NEON, and the United States Department of Agriculture, among others. While the specific directions for research are open to the student's interests, we anticipate topics related to size-abundance scaling, community assembly, and life history theory that can be applied to understand patterns of biodiversity and important corridors for wildlife habitat connectivity. This project is primarily devoted to computational work, but there will be opportunity for some field work to ensure that models are grounded in reality. We anticipate a final M.S. thesis or Ph.D. dissertation comprised of two or four chapters, respectively depending on degree type, suitable for submission to peer-reviewed journals, as well as the opportunity to contribute as a co-author on other manuscripts completed as part of the collaborative research.
Required Qualifications: We seek applicants with a B.S. in biology, ecology, environmental data science, or other relevant discipline with a G.P.A. >3.0. The ideal applicant will have quantitative skills (e.g., R, Python, geographic information systems) and interest in learning new skills, previous research experience and a strong background in ecology and environmental science, strong writing, creativity, and an excellent track record in seeing projects through from start to finish. Successful applicants will be expected to work both independently and collaboratively, mentor undergraduates in the group, develop independent research questions related to overall project goals, and publish research results. Good oral and written communication skills and flexibility given the unexpected nature of research are highly valued. International applicants must meet UMaine Graduate School requirements for teaching assistant minimum English proficiency test scores.
Desired Qualifications: Preference will be given to applicants with experience or demonstrated interest in field ecology and quantitative methods, ideally with a M.S. in environmental data science or ecology if applying for a Ph.D. Preferred applicants will show evidence of publishing from their prior research or M.S. thesis. Preference will be given to applicants who have a strong record of communication as evidenced by conference presentations and prior team science collaborations. Prior experience or exposure through coursework with the following quantitative skills: GIS, spatial analysis, processing of remotely sensed data, machine learning, and maximum likelihood and/or Bayesian estimation methods. Experience using R and/or Python for data management, analysis, and presentation of results.
Location: The University of Maine Orono campus is a community of ~12,000 undergraduate and graduate students. UMaine is in beautiful central Maine with an excellent quality of life (little traffic, reasonable cost of living, safe neighborhoods). Outdoor recreational activities abound with Mount Katahdin (Baxter State Park) and Acadia National Park within one hour drive and fifteen miles of running, biking, and cross-country skiing trails on campus.
Salary: For M.S., approximately $22,500 per year, with anticipated three semesters of Research Assistantship plus two semesters of Teaching Assistantship. For Ph.D., approximately $26,500 per year, with anticipated six semesters of Research Assistantship plus two semesters of Teaching Assistantship. In all summers, students will be on a Research Assistantship. Tuition and a minimum of half of health insurance premiums will be covered by the project.
Timeline: Review of applications will begin as they are received. For full consideration please apply by 5/30/24. The successful candidate must be available to start on 9/3/2024.
Contact: Email sydne.record@maine.edu with the subject line "Quantitative Ecology Graduate Assistantship" if you have questions.
We especially encourage applicants from historically excluded groups to apply. The University of Maine Orono is an EEO/AA employer, and does not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, including transgender status and gender expression, national origin, citizenship status, age, disability, genetic information or veteran's status in employment, education, and all other programs and activities.
Apply: https://tinyurl.com/RecordLab2024
Posted 4/23/24
MSc Position in Forest Entomology
The CONIFER Lab at the Canadian Forest Service - Atlantic Forestry Centre (AFC) is seeking an MSc student with interests in forest ecology, entomology and climate change to fill a 2-year position beginning September 2024 (latest January 2024). The successful candidate will be funded through the Boreal Ecosystem and Agricultural Sciences (BEAS) program at Memorial University - Grenfell campus. The student will be based at the AFC research laboratory in Corner Brook, NL, located in the university's Forestry Building. Although research will be predominantly conduced at AFC, the student will be required to meet all university requirements for degree completion.
Research will focus on the spruce budworm, a highly destructive pest of eastern boreal forests and currently undergoing an outbreak on the island of Newfoundland. The aim of the program is to investigate insect responses to extreme spring weather events (i.e., cold snaps), with the goal of providing knowledge to stakeholders and end users (e.g., federal and provincial land managers, industry and the public at large). The research will be predominantly lab-based, although there will be a possibility for a field component - program specifics will be co-developed by the student and PI. Fundamental response metrics include survival, phenology, body condition and biochemistry, with additional possibilities based on student interest.
The successful applicant will be self-motivated and creative, with strong communication skills (written and oral) for diverse audiences. They should also be highly capable with regards to time management, problem solving, and critical thinking. Previous experience with experimental design and data analysis would also be an asset. As a member of the CONIFER lab, the successful candidate will be joining a federal government organization, where dedication to inclusion, diversity and equity is essential to our core values. Interested applicants can apply via email to Dr. Eric Moise (eric.moise@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca). Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Please include brief cover letter, CV and 2 reference contacts.
Posted 4/13/24
M.S. Opportunity in Forest Ecology
A fully funded M.S. degree position is available to work with Hall Cushman (University of Nevada, Reno) and Stephanie Yelenik (Rocky Mountain Research Station, USFS) on a research project to assess the influence of forest-thinning practices on the health and growth of whitebark pine (WBP, Pinus albicaulis), a threatened conifer that inhabits high-elevation ecosystems in the western U.S.
The selected graduate student will join the Cushman-Yelenik group via UNR�s Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology (https://www.unr.edu/eecb).
Qualifications. Experience in research, forest ecology, climate change, and statistics using R are desired.
Compensation. $24,000/year plus tuition waiver and health insurance. All research costs will be covered.
Start Date. August 1, 2024.
Applications. To apply for this position, ASAP send a letter of interest and CV to Hall Cushman (jhcushman@unr.edu) and Stephanie Yelenik (stephanie.yelenik@usda.gov). The official deadline for Fall admission to the EECB program has passed, but an exception will be grated for this position.
About UNR. Founded in 1874, the University of Nevada, Reno is a land-grant public institution with ~20,000 students. The university is classified as an R1 institution by Carnegie, in recognition of its �very high research activity.�
About Reno. Reno is located on the western edge of the Great Basin and the eastern slope of Sierra Nevada Mountains. With its elevation ranging from 4,400 to 6,000 feet, the city has a population size of ~270,000 and is home to a diverse cultural and artistic community. Reno offers exceptional access to outdoor activities including skiing, climbing, hiking, and mountain biking. It is located ~45 minutes from Lake Tahoe, 3 hours from Yosemite National Park, and 3.5 hours from San Francisco. Outside Magazine included Reno in its list of 12 Best Places to Live in the U.S. (2019) and 15 Happiest Places to Live in the U.S. (2023).
J. Hall Cushman, Professor
Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Science
Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Ecology, Evolution & Conservation Biology
University of Nevada
Reno, NV 89557
Posted 4/11/24
Funded M.Sc. position at St. Francis Xavier University (Canada)
The Bishop Laboratory at St. Francis Xavier University (Canada) invites applications for a funded M.Sc. position to study specificity in partner choice and latitudinal patterns of symbiont diversity in an algal-salamander mutualism.
Program: https://www.stfx.ca/department/biology
Start Date: September 2024
Location: Antigonish (Mi�kma�ki, unceded territory of Mi�kmaw People), Nova Scotia, Canada
Funding: Minimum stipend of CAD$ 23,000/annum for 2 years
The project: Recurring partner choice is a fundamental aspect of all symbiotic mutualisms having horizontally transmitted symbionts. High specificity (i.e. a narrow range of partners) in mutualisms can stabilize co-operation between symbionts and hosts, but for many mutualisms, there is undescribed or unexplained variation in symbiont identity. Many mutualisms exist along latitudinal gradients, and among different mutualisms, there is conflicting evidence as to whether partner choice varies along those gradients. The project will use next-generation DNA sequencing and experiments to determine the specificity of the mutualism between unicellular green algae and egg masses of the salamander Ambystoma maculatum along a latitudinal gradient. The project will involve both local and non-local collections of material as well as handling of material from, and interaction with, collaborators in the US. The student will learn contemporary techniques in DNA sequence analysis, ecological theory, statistics, cell and molecular biology and microscopy.
Qualifications: Strong academic background, including completion of a senior research project (e.g., Honours). Educational background in cell and molecular biology OR ecology; applicants with a background in both are ideal. Curiosity, motivation, and willingness to nurture independence in your work are beneficial attributes.
To apply, please email to Dr Cory Bishop (cbishop@stfx.ca) these documents:
(i) a cover letter detailing your academic background and how this opportunity will advance your academic goals,
(ii) CV summarizing your work or (if appropriate) volunteer experience, and
(iii) an unofficial academic transcript.
*Applications from persons of all backgrounds and identities are welcome*
Posted 4/11/24
PhD and MSc positions in the Conservation Solutions Lab at the University of Northern British Columbia
The Conservation Solutions Lab at UNBC is now seeking one PhD students and two MSc students to undertake fully funded research intensive theses in the areas of:
1) Conservation planning. Research in this theme seeks to test existing approaches and develop novel methods for systematic conservation planning.
2) Cumulative impacts. Research in this theme seeks to elucidate the ecological responses of species and ecosystems to cumulative environmental impacts, as well as identify the last intact ecosystems.
These are general themes, and students will have the latitude to refine their projects based on their interests. Our ongoing work primarily focuses on applications in Canada, South America (Peru, Ecuador, Colombia), and pan-tropical and global scales.
Ideal students will have a strong quantitative background, a passion for biodiversity conservation and ecological sustainability, and a desire to work as part of a team in a collaborative setting. In addition to a background in the ecological sciences, valuable skills for this work are: computer science, programming, statistics, working with big data, high level GIS experience. Students will receive a living and tuition stipend ($25000/yr) and access to departmental scholarships, without the requirement to TA.
Expressions of interest should be made by May 15 for a January 2025 start, with the potential for an earlier start.
I encourage prospective students to look at our recent publications to get a better idea of our work and how it may align with your interests. Papers: https://scholar.google.ca/citations?hl=en&user=Ih5f79MAAAAJ&view_op=list_works&sortby=pubdate
Contact Oscar Venter at oscar.venter at unbc dot ca to discuss further.
Posted 4/10/24
Masters student (funded) position at City University of New York (CUNY), Advanced Science Research Center (ASRC)
The City University of New York is the nation�s largest urban public university, and The Advanced Science Research Center (ASRC) is a 200,000 square-foot facility in upper Manhattan (New York City) designed to promote collaboration among scientists in five areas of global research and innovation: nanoscience, photonics, structural biology, neuroscience, and environmental sciences.
The Environmental Sciences Initiative and the Advanced Laboratory for Chemical and Isotopic Signatures at the ASRC is welcoming applications for a masters student to advance studies related to the dynamics and interactions of (micro)plastic materials in terrestrial soil environments. We are using carbon stable isotopes (13C) to study microplastic decomposition, assimilation into biomass (phospholipid fatty acids, PLFAs), and mineralization to end-point gases, CO2 and CH4. Additional spectroscopy-based approaches (i.e., synchrotron-based scanning transmission X-ray microscopy and near-edge X-ray absorption fine-structure spectroscopy) will be used to account for the plastics� reactivity and association with soil aggregates. These tools along with isotopic mass balance approaches will help establish an understanding of plastic decomposition, and include a modeling of their assimilation and mineralization, transformation to lower weight products, and final conversion to carbon dioxide and methane in soil.
This project is supported by the National Science Foundation and includes collaborators at Columbia University, Lamont�Doherty Earth Observatory.
Responsibilities
� Perform laboratory chemical work and analytical measurements using mostly IRMS and GCMS
� Maintain experiments and conduct sample collection
� Analyze and interpret data
� Preparing data for presentation, drafting and writing reports
Qualifications
� BS degree in geochemistry, chemistry, soil science, earth/environmental sciences, or other relevant fields
� Previous laboratory-based research experience is highly desirable
� Basic understanding and/or prior use of GCMS, FTIR/Raman spectroscopy, isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS), elemental analysis
Compensation
The exact level of compensation for this appointment depends on several factors but will include a combination of salary (starting at ~$25K/year, part-time) and/or tuition waivers.
Deadline
Review of applications will start May 15, 2024. Anticipated start date is prior to August 15, 2024.
Application
Interested candidates should submit the following materials to Dr. Brian Giebel (bgiebel@gc.cuny.edu) in a single pdf file:
� Cover letter (1-2 pages) that describes your experience and motivation
� Unofficial Transcripts
� CV or resume (including accomplishments and a list of publications, if applicable)
� Contact information (name, position, institution, email) for 2 references.
The qualified student applicant is expected to be enrolled in the Environmental and Atmospheric Sciences Masters Program at CUNY City College of New York and will have to submit a separate application to this program. This must be done prior to July 1, 2024 and in coordination with Dr. Giebel.
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Posted 4/4/24
Masters in Conservation and Restoration (MCRS) Graduate Program at UC-Irvine accepting applications for Fall 2024
Are you or do you have students or colleagues who are interested in a career as a leader in the conservation and management of natural resources?
The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and the Center for Environmental Biology (CEB) at the University of California, Irvine, are accepting applications for our professional, field-based Masters in Conservation and Restoration Science (MCRS) graduate program providing training for students interested in careers in the research and management of our terrestrial and marine natural resources. The MCRS degree provides students with the academic and professional skills needed to study, protect, and conserve natural resources and to hold leadership and management positions in environmental fields related to conservation, restoration, and sustainability.
For more information, visit the MCRS webpage (http://mcrs.bio.uci.edu), or contact Courtney Hunt, MCRS Academic Coordinator, at cchunt@uci.edu.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis; the final review deadline is June 30.
Posted 3/6/24
Graduate Assistantships: mussel ecology - Texas A&M University
1 PhD graduate assistantship and 2 MS graduate assistantship are available under the supervision of Dr. Charles Randklev and Dr. Roel Lopez in the Texas A&M Natural Resource Institute and Department of Rangeland, Wildlife and Fisheries Management. The PhD assistantship will focus on evaluating population dynamics for rare species to inform recovery efforts. The first MS assistantship will focus on evaluating growth using lab and field-based methods. The second MS assistantship will focus on testing lethal and sublethal temperature assays to inform environmental flow efforts.
Funding for this project is from state and federal natural resource agencies
For the PhD assistantship a full stipend (grant funded Research Assistantship) for 3 years will be provided: ~$35,000/yr (tuition + salary).
For the MS assistantships a full stipend (grant funded Research Assistantship) for 2 years will be provided: ~$32,000/yr (tuition + salary).
Start date: flexible but ideally Summer of 2024
Last Date to apply: May 15, 2024
More information about the graduate program in the Department of Rangeland, Wildlife and Fisheries Management - https://rwfm.tamu.edu.
More information about the mussel research program at NRI-TAMU: https://dallas.tamu.edu/research/mussels/
Qualifications:
Required: For MS assistantship - BS in Biology or related field; previous research experience in aquatic ecology, community ecology, or ecotoxicology. For PHD assistantship - MS in Biology or related field; previous research experience in environmental modeling and statistics. Applicants should have strong analytical, oral, and written communication skills, plus detail oriented and the ability to work independently; valid drivers license is required; must be comfortable in the water and outdoors. GPA >3.0; GRE scores > 60th percentile (153 verbal and 156 quantitative).
Preferred: For MS assistantship - research experience with freshwater mussels (unionids); publications in ecotoxicology, stream ecology, or community ecology; For PHD assistantship - publications using species distribution models, strong statistical background, and ability to code; GPA >3.5; GRE scores >70th percentile (156 verbal and 159 quantitative).
Before applying, please email a single PDF document to BOTH Dr. Randklev (crandklev@ag.tamu.edu) AND Dr. Lopez (roel.lopez@ag.tamu.edu) that contains: (1) a letter of interest describing your qualifications, experience and background, (2) your CV, (3) GRE scores, (4) GPA and unofficial transcripts, and (5) contact information for 3 academic/research references. Feel free to contact us for more information about the graduate program, our research, and more specifics about the project.
Posted 2/8/24
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