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:
Email
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.
============================================================
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
============================================================
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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