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:

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N.B. This webpage crashed, and I have rebuilt it starting on 1/17/25.

MS position - elk survival - University of Nevada Reno

Project description and responsibilities: We seek a graduate research assistant (MS student) in wildlife ecology to study the contributions of trace mineral elements and space use on elk survival in Nevada. The research project seeks to understand potential causes of puzzling springtime mortality of elk in northern Nevada that may contribute to population declines. In collaboration with staff at the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW; https://www.unr.edu/nvcfwru), the student will evaluate whether spring mortality is driven by trace mineral deficiencies, novel diseases, space use, and/or landscape-scale factors. The student will be based out of the Nevada Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit (NVCFWRU) at the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) and will have opportunity to pursue their MS degree through the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (https://www.unr.edu/nres) or the Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation Biology (https://www.unr.edu/eecb) programs. The student will be advised by Dr. Brian Folt (https://wilddecisions.github.io/) at the NVCFWRU at UNR and will be expected to take classes, assist with field work, contribute to annual reports, write a MS thesis, publish at least one peer-reviewed journal article, give presentations to cooperators and at conferences, and enthusiastically participate in various academic communities at UNR, among other duties.

Qualifications: BS in ecology, wildlife biology, or related field. Strong candidates will be interested in population, disease, and/or landscape ecology and possess experience with field research, statistical analysis, and/or R programming. The ideal candidate is motivated, enthusiastic, creative, collaborative, and productive, with strong oral and written communication skills. We value and support intersectional diversity and work-life balance.

Salary and benefits: Full support including stipend ($24,000/year) plus tuition waiver and student health benefits for 2+ years. April-May start date preferred (as an NDOW technician); student would begin graduate school in August 2025.

To apply: Please email a cover letter, CV, unofficial transcripts, and contact information for 3 references to Brian Folt (bfolt@unr.edu). Interested applicants are welcomed to reach out with questions via email before applying. We will begin reviewing applications on 10 February 2025 and the position will be open until filled.


Brian Folt, Ph.D. (he/him)
Assistant Unit Leader - Wildlife
U.S. Geological Survey, Nevada Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit
University of Nevada, Reno

Office:  100A Knudtsen Resource Center
              1000 Valley Road, Reno, NV 89512

Mail:      1664 N. Virginia Street
               Mail Stop 405, Reno, NV 89557

Email:   bfolt@unr.edu

Phone: (775) 682-5957

Web: https://www.unr.edu/nvcfwru, https://wilddecisions.github.io/

Posted 1/18/25

Recruiting Master's students in Applied Ecology and Conservation Ecology - Frostburg State University

Frostburg State University is happy to announce several new graduate positions becoming available for Fall 2025. In addition, we are launching a new scholarship program to encourage regional professionals in the Natural Resources to obtain a Master's, taking classes part-time for three years. Please see the two announcements below.


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Several MS positions in Applied Ecology and Conservation Biology - Frostburg State University

Graduate Student Opportunities – Fall 2025 Cohort
Department of Biology, Frostburg State University

The Master’s programs in Applied Ecology & Conservation Biology and Wildlife & Fisheries Biology at Frostburg State University are now recruiting passionate and driven students for the Fall 2025 graduate cohort!

We are specifically seeking candidates to join the Parasites and Plastics Ecology Group, with at least three funded graduate research positions available. This is an exciting opportunity to engage in impactful research addressing pressing environmental and ecological challenges.

About the Research Projects:
Selected students will have the opportunity to work on projects that involve a diverse array of taxonomic groups, including: Insects, Gastropods, Fish, and Birds from a range of ecological systems.

Potential study topics include, but are not limited to: Wildlife disease and parasite infection ecology, Ecosystem and population health, Dynamics of plastic pollution and its effects on ecological systems, Projects that integrate the study of plastic pollution with other ecological themes are highly encouraged.

Why Frostburg State University?
Frostburg State University (FSU) is a public university nestled in the scenic mountains of western Maryland. Known for its strong focus on experiential learning, FSU offers a supportive environment for academic and professional growth, with access to diverse ecosystems for hands-on research and field studies. The university is committed to sustainability, innovation, and fostering a vibrant community of scholars dedicated to addressing real-world challenges. FSU’s close-knit campus and exceptional faculty provide an ideal setting for students to excel in their academic pursuits while contributing to meaningful change.

Funding and Assistantship Opportunities:
Graduate students at FSU benefit from Teaching Assistantships (TAs) that include: Full or partial tuition remission to significantly offset educational costs and a living stipend for the academic year.

Additional opportunities are available for: University service roles, which can provide scholarships and supplemental summer pay.
These funding options ensure that students can focus on their research and academic goals while minimizing financial burdens.

Eligibility and Expectations:
Applicants should have a strong interest in ecological research and environmental health.
Backgrounds in biology, ecology, or related fields are preferred.
Prior research experience is a plus but not required.
Candidates are encouraged to explore shared research interests with the faculty advisor before applying.
Note: Cold applications are unlikely to be viewed as competitive. It is strongly recommended that interested individuals contact Dr. Kate Sheehan (klsheehan@frostburg.edu) to discuss their research interests and alignment with the program.

Application Requirements:
Faculty Advisor: Applicants must secure a major professor within the Department of Biology who is willing to mentor and guide their thesis research. It is essential that your research interests align with those of the faculty member.

For detailed information on admission requirements, please visit: FSU AECB Admission Requirements: https://www.frostburg.edu/academics/majorminors/graduate/ms-applied-ecology-and-conservation-biology/additional-resources/aecb-admission-requirements.php

Prospective students must meet the following criteria:

Educational Background: Completion of a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution with an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
GRE Scores: Submission of GRE scores with a minimum combined score of 300 (Verbal + Quantitative) on the General Test. Scores below this threshold will be considered on an individual basis.

References: Three professional references attesting to your suitability for graduate study. Contact information for these references should be provided in your online application.

Résumé: Submission of a current résumé detailing your academic and professional experiences.

Statement of Purpose: A typewritten statement summarizing your educational goals and research interests.

How to Apply:
To express interest in one of these positions contact Dr. Kate Sheehan at klsheehan(AT)frostburg.edu to discuss potential research alignment.

Submit a complete online application to the graduate program through Frostburg State University, ensuring all the above requirements are met.

Application reviews start on March 1st, 2025

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Continuing Education - Master's degrees for Natural Resources Professionals

Continuing Education Leading to a Master's of Science for  Natural Resource Professionals
Department of Biology, Frostburg State University

The Department of Biology at Frostburg State University (FSU) is excited to announce Graduate Student Recruitment Scholarships for local/regional natural resource professionals! These scholarships are designed to support individuals employed in parks, wildlife management, and conservation agencies who are seeking to advance their careers with a graduate degree.

FSU’s Applied Ecology & Conservation Biology and Wildlife & Fisheries Biology programs are uniquely positioned as Maryland’s only graduate programs in these fields, offering unparalleled opportunities for professional and academic growth.

Program Overview:
We are accepting up to 8 individuals into our graduate programs for part-time enrollment (6 credits per semester) to complete a Master’s degree within 3 years.
This program targets professionals in the natural resources field who:
Will not require tuition remission but can benefit from a yearly scholarship of $2,500 for up to 3 years.
Are at least half-time employees of state, federal, or NGO agencies that reimburse tuition.

Additional Highlights:
There is no teaching requirement for participants.
Students are encouraged to complete a thesis project related to ongoing work with their respective agencies or on emerging topics in applied ecology and conservation biology.

Program Benefits:
Career Advancement: Earn advanced credentials to enhance professional growth while maintaining your current employment.

Flexibility: Designed for working professionals with part-time enrollment (minimum of 6 credit hours/semester).

Financial Support: Reduce the cost of graduate education while balancing work and study.

Enhanced Workforce Development: Strengthen regional natural resource management through advanced education.

How to Apply:
Connect with Faculty: Contact faculty in the Department of Biology to discuss your interests and confirm mentorship availability. Be prepared to share transcripts and GRE scores (if you have them).

Employment Verification: Provide proof of a permanent position within an agency and contact information for supervisors to confirm part-time employment.

Submit Your Application: Complete the online application through FSU Graduate Admissions. Ensure you meet all admission requirements, including transcripts, and reference contact information.

Contact Information:
Dr. Kumudini Munasinghe
Graduate Coordinator | Associate Professor
kamunasinghe(AT)frostburg.edu
Dr. Kate Sheehan
Wildlife Parasitologist | Assistant Professor
klsheehan(AT)frostburg.edu

Join us to elevate your career in natural resource management while making a tangible impact on the environment and your community!

Posted 1/18/25

MS Assistantship in Termite Methane Emissions at Utah State University

Position Description

Our group is recruiting a MS student interested in studying termite methane emissions at Utah State University (www.zhoulabusu.weebly.com). This position focuses on studying termite methane emissions at the individual species level and exploring the variations in species-specific termite methane emissions in relation to termite gut microbiomes. Fieldwork will be conducted across tropical savannas and forests in the Republic of Congo. The graduate student will have opportunities to collaborate with diverse groups of researchers at Harvard University, the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies, and the Natural History Museum (London).

Preferred qualifications:

BS in biology, ecology, entomology or related fields;
Willingness to travel and conduct field research in remote locations;
Research experience in biogeochemistry and/or metagenomics and bioinformatics;
Training in statistical analysis using R or related software.

How to apply

The preferred start date is Fall 2025. Interested candidates should contact Yong Zhou (yong.zhou@usu.edu) with a compiled pdf including:

(1) a cover letter that describes your experience and interests and addresses the preferred position qualifications,
(2) a resume or CV,
(3) contact information for three professional references, and
(4) most recent academic transcript (unofficial).

Our research group at Utah State University is committed to fostering a diverse environment. All qualified applicants will be considered. The selected candidate will be expected to gain acceptance into the Ecology program through the Utah State University Graduate School: https://gradschool.usu.edu/

Benefits:

Successful candidates will be supported with a competitive stipend, tuition coverage, and health coverage.

About Logan and Utah State University

Utah State University is a public land-grant university and is classified as a Carnegie R1 University with very high research activity. USU is located in the city of Logan, Utah, a town with approximately 50,000 residents. Situated in a valley between the Wellsville and Bear River Mountain ranges, Logan offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities including local ski resorts, biking, and hiking trails. Logan is just a short drive to Salt Lake City, as well as many National Parks, Monuments, and Conservation Areas.

Yong Zhou, PhD
Assistant Professor
Department of Wildland Resources and the Ecology Center
Utah State University

Posted 1/17/25

Ph.D. and M.S. Opportunities, Fisheries Ecology Lab, Dauphin Island, AL

The Fisheries Ecology Lab led by Dr. Sean Powers of the Stokes School of Marine and Environmental Sciences at the University of South Alabama (USA) (https://www.southalabama.edu/colleges/artsandsci/marinesciences) has opportunities starting Fall 2025 for qualified students who want to advance their education in marine fisheries sciences. The Fisheries Ecology Lab (https://www.facebook.com/fisheriesecology) conducts basic and applied research on fisheries species in inshore and offshore areas (inshore sportfish to offshore reef fish and pelagics).

The University of South Alabama and the Dauphin Island Sea Lab have an international reputation in graduating talented and highly competitive graduate students.

The lab offers graduate assistantships for highly competitive students seeking Ph.D.’s. Opportunities are also available for M.S. seeking students on projects as internships or assistantships.

All Ph.D. assistantships offer competitive pay ($21,600 - $24,600), student health insurance and tuition remission.

Interested students are encouraged to contact Sean Powers <spowers@disl.edu> and apply by February 15, 2025 for full consideration.

Students may be based in newly renovated facilities on the USA campus in Mobile or at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. Students should contact advisors as soon as possible to attend a recruitment weekend during the first weekend in February.

Click here (https://www.southalabama.edu/colleges/artsandsci/marinesciences/GraduateProgram.html) for the application link

Posted 1/17/25

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