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
PhD
or MSc position in permafrost carbon cycling at McGill
University, Montréal, Canada
Research Topic: Boreal soils and lakes store a huge
reservoir of carbon that is sensitive to future climate change.
One of the big future changes affecting these environments under a
warmer climate is increasing plant and algal growth, which will
provide much larger inputs of fresh organic matter that is easily
decomposed by microbes. This project will carry out a set of
experiments with soils and lake waters from boreal permafrost
ecosystems in northern Quebec to better understand how inputs of
fresh organic matter affect the fate of existing carbon, and
whether they induce strong priming effects. This research will
improve our understanding of how increasing plant growth will
affect boreal carbon reservoirs, and whether these carbon
reservoirs will be a net source or sink of carbon to the
atmosphere in the future.
Description of Position
The student will sample boreal soils and lake waters in northern
Quebec and use these samples to carry out incubation experiments
that include 13C labeled plant
substrates. They will analyze the isotopic composition (carbon-13
and carbon-14) of respired gases and organic matter from the
experiments to understand how plant inputs stimulate respiration
of permafrost derived carbon. The student will be based in the
McGill Isotope Biogeochemistry Laboratory (http://www.isobiogeomcgill.ca/)
led by Dr. Peter Douglas in the Department of Earth and Planetary
Sciences, and will be co-supervised by Dr. Cynthia Kallenbach (https://kallenbachcm.wixsite.com/soils)
in the Department of Natural Resource Sciences. There will
be opportunities to collaborate with research groups from the
Université de Montreal and the Institut National de Recherche
Scientifique that specialize in limnology. The preferred start
date is January 2026.
Qualifications
Either an M.Sc. or B.Sc. in Earth sciences, soil science,
environmental science or a related field.
A strong background in environmental chemistry or geochemistry.
Previous laboratory and field-based research experience.
Experience with incubation experiments and/or microbiology is an
asset.
Ability to carry out field sampling in challenging environments.
English proficiency and strong oral and written communication
skills. French proficiency is an asset.
How to Apply
Prospective applicants should send a CV and cover letter to peter.douglas@mcgill.ca.
The departmental application deadline for January admission is August
1, 2025 and application instructions can be found at: https://www.mcgill.ca/eps/programs/graduate-programs/admissions.
Cynthia Kallenbach
Associate Professor
Natural Resource Science Department
McGill University, Québec Canada
Cynthia.kallenbach@mcgill.ca
https://kallenbachcm.wixsite.com/soils
Posted 6/6/25
MSc/Phd position available in the
Goldar Lab
PhD and/or MSc positions are available in the Goldar Lab (https://goldarlab.weebly.com/)
in the School of Biological Sciences at Illinois State
University to start in Spring, Summer or Fall 2026. The
positions are broadly focused on how chemical ecology,
environmental gradients and climate change shape the ecology and
evolution of plant-insect interactions. Our lab seeks harnessing
classic hypotheses of Plant Defense Theory to investigate how
plant-insect interactions vary in an organ-dependent manner
across environments, and to predict changes in magnitude and
direction of performance of plants, insects and their
interactions in response to simultaneous stresses of global
change. The work will employ greenhouse, lab and/or field
experiments and will involve the use of biotic interactions with
herbivores and pollinators.
I am looking for a highly motivated PhD and/or MSc candidate to
join the lab. We offer a vibrant, collaborative and respectful
working environment with high-quality supervision. You should
have a degree in any field of Biology and a strong interest in
evolutionary ecology. Proficiency in English, both orally and
written, is also required. Prior experience with plants and/or
insects, chemical ecology, population genetics and genomics, and
foundations in statistics are an advantage.
If you are interested, please contact me at xlopezg@ilstu.edu
and include in a single PDF file 1) a brief description of
research interests (for PhD or MSc), experience and career
goals, 2) CV/Résumé, 3) writing sample (publication, manuscript
in preparation, thesis…), and 4) names and email addresses of 3
references maximum. The deadline is June 30th (or until
the position is filled)
The School of Biological Sciences at ISU hosts many labs
with access to molecular and ecological tools, spanning diverse
scientific disciplines, including neuroethology, microbiology or
conservation. Opportunities for collaborations between labs are
also possible. Also, it has access to greenhouses, growth
chambers and field sites for plant cultivation and experiments.
The School of Biological Sciences provides funding for graduate
students through Teaching Assistantships and Research
Assistantships. More information on the department, application
procedures, and requirements can be found for Master's (https://biology.illinoisstate.edu/academics/behavior-ecology-evolution-and-systematics-masters/)
and Doctoral (https://biology.illinoisstate.edu/academics/behavior-ecology-evolution-and-systematics-doc/)
programs. The city of Normal also offers an excellent quality of
life, attractive surroundings for outdoor sports and nearby
iconic cities and places.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
I am looking forward to receiving your application!
Xosé López Goldar
Assistant Professor in Evolutionary Ecology
xlopezg@ilstu.edu
The Goldar Lab (https://goldarlab.weebly.com/)
will open its doors in August 2025 in the School of Biological
Sciences (https://biology.illinoisstate.edu/)
at Illinois State University. Please check out our new website (https://goldarlab.weebly.com/),
stay tuned for updates, and contact us if you are interested in
joining the lab!
Posted 6/4/25
Ph.D. or M.S. Graduate Research
Assistantship – Physical, Ecological, and Social Dynamics of
South Carolina Tidal Trunks
STARTING DATE: August 2025
CLOSING DATE: The position is open until filled.
Applications will be evaluated as submitted.
DESCRIPTION: The James C. Kennedy Waterfowl and
Wetlands Conservation Center at Clemson University is seeking a
highly motivated Ph.D. or M.S. candidate to conduct research on
materials for tidal trunks and other water control structures
with the goal of developing alternative, cost-effective
solutions for water level management in waterfowl impoundments
in coastal South Carolina.
Water control structures are critical for effective
wetland management. Historically, wooden tidal trunks had a life
span of 25–30 years, but the discontinuation of chromate copper
arsenate and creosote-treated lumber has reduced this to 8–10
years due to the use of pressure-treated lumber with alkaline
copper quaternary preservatives. These trunks lose tensile
strength from cyclic wetting and drying, salt crystal formation,
decomposition, and insect colonization, with replacement costs
reaching $20,000 to $25,000 each. Research is required to
evaluate new materials and designs for tidal trunks while
considering traditional design significance. The objectives of
this study are to 1) inventory the number and characteristics of
tidal trunks and other water control structures in South
Carolina's coastal counties, 2) interview land managers and
owners to evaluate critical and desirable design features of
tidal trunks, 3) conduct a comprehensive literature review
evaluating potential materials and designs, 4) document wildlife
and invertebrate use of tidal trunks, 5) evaluate material
performance, and 6) work with experienced tidal trunk builders
to design, build, and install new prototypes.
The student will be working toward a graduate degree in
Forest Resources (https://www.clemson.edu/cafls/academics/graduate/forest-resources.html),
Biosystems Engineering (https://www.clemson.edu/degrees/biosystems-engineering),
Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences (https://www.clemson.edu/cecas/departments/eees/index.html),
or Civil Engineering (https://www.clemson.edu/cecas/departments/ce/)
at Clemson University. Clemson University (http://www.clemson.edu/about/)
is a public land-grant Carnegie R1 Research University in a
college town atmosphere on Lake Hartwell within view of the Blue
Ridge Mountains. Students will take classes on the main campus
and conduct fieldwork along South Carolina's coast at the Tom
Yawkey Wildlife Center (https://yawkeyfoundation.org/giving/conservation-wildlife/origin-story/),
the Baruch Institute of Coastal Ecology and Forest Science (http://www.clemson.edu/baruch/),
located on the 16,000-acre Hobcaw Barony (https://hobcawbarony.org/)
property, and other coastal locations.
The student will be advised by a multidisciplinary team
comprised of Dr. Christophe Darnault (Environmental Engineering
and Earth Sciences), Dr. Brunela Rodrigues (Wood Utilization and
Biomaterials), Dr. Michael Stoner (Civil Engineering), and Dr.
Jim Anderson (James C. Kennedy Waterfowl and Wetlands
Conservation Center).
QUALIFICATIONS: B.S. (for M.S.) and M.S. (for Ph.D.) in
Environmental or Civil Engineering, Materials Science, Wood
Science, Forest Engineering, Environmental Science, or a closely
related field. Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.00. A strong
interest and experience in engineering design, material science,
and design software is crucial. Interest in environmental
sustainability, historic preservation, wetlands, statistics, and
publishing is a plus. A valid driver’s license and reliable
transportation is required. Due to current visa restrictions
imposed by the United States government, you must be a United
States citizen to apply for this position.
Clemson University does not discriminate based on race, color,
religion, sexual orientation, gender, pregnancy, national
origin, age, or disability. We encourage applications from
minorities, women, veterans, and all other qualified applicants.
STIPEND: $25,000 (Ph.D.) or $22,000 (M.S.) plus tuition waiver.
CONTACT: Interested individuals should email a letter of
interest, resume, a <1,000-word statement of purpose (why do
you want to work on this project, your research interests, and
long-term career goals), unofficial copy of transcripts,
GRE/TOEFL scores (if available), proof of valid drivers license,
examples of published papers, and contact information for 3
references to Ms. Crystal Anderson at crhode2@clemson.edu.
James T. (Jim) Anderson, Ph.D. |CLEMSON UNIVERSITY
James C. Kennedy Endowed Chair of Waterfowl and Wetland Ecology
Director, James C. Kennedy Waterfowl and Wetlands Conservation
Center
Director, Belle W. Baruch Institute of Coastal Ecology and
Forest Science
Jta6@clemson.edu
Cell: 304-276-8956
Web: https://www.clemson.edu/cafls/kennedy-center/index.html
Posted 6/4/25
2
M.S. Positions in Aquatic Ecology available in August 2025
Two separate M.S. assistantship positions in Aquatic Ecology
available to begin August 16, 2025: 1) Microplankton Dynamics in
Reservoirs of the Columbia River Basin and 2) the Feeding Ecology
of Native Freshwater Mussels in the Columbia River
Dr. Gretchen Rollwagen-Bollens and Dr. Stephen Bollens,
Co-Directors of the Aquatic Ecology Lab at Washington State
University, Vancouver, WA, USA have paid positions available for
new master’s degree students in Environmental and Natural
Resources Sciences (ENRS) to start on August 16, 2025.
Position 1: The Microplankton Dynamics in Reservoirs of the
Columbia River Basin project will focus on the analysis and
interpretation of a 2-year dataset of microplankton (including
ciliates, diatoms, green algae, cyanobacteria) abundance and
community composition, and associated environmental variables
(both abiotic and biotic) from four different reservoirs.
Note that both the field collections and the microscopic taxonomic
identifications have been completed; what remains is the
statistical analysis (using a range of multi-variate techniques)
and interpretation and write-up of results. Thus, this
project will be particularly well-suited for those interested in
ecological data analysis and interpretation.
Position 2: The Feeding Ecology of Native Freshwater Mussels
in the Columbia River project is focused on measuring the feeding
dynamics of native freshwater mussels (i.e., grazing on
phytoplankton and microzooplankton) in the lower Columbia
River. This project will include conducting laboratory
feeding experiments, microscopic analysis of plankton samples, and
statistical analysis and interpretation of results.
The academic positions will officially begin on August 16, 2025;
however, there is an opportunity to begin the position in
mid-summer 2025, prior to the start of the Fall 2025 semester.
The successful graduate students will be supported on a
combination of Research Assistantships and Teaching
Assistantships, and possibly fellowships, plus full tuition
waivers and health benefits. Graduate students at WSU are
unionized as Academic Student Employees (https://wsucase.org/before-and-after-union/),
and students on the Vancouver campus receive a competitive stipend
($2,974/month, equivalent to ~$35,700 annually).
Please visit our website for more information about the
Aquatic Ecology Lab and our research (https://labs.wsu.edu/aquatic-ecology/).
Our group is committed to supporting the professional development
of students of all backgrounds in aquatic science.
Degree program and deadline: M.S. in Environmental and
Natural Resource Sciences.
These positions will remain open until filled, but we are eager to
fill them as soon as possible (summer 2025).
Contact: Please contact Dr. Gretchen Rollwagen-Bollens (rollboll@wsu.edu)
and Dr. Stephen Bollens (sbollens@wsu.edu) for further
information. In your initial message, please provide the
following:
Current CV/Resume, including cumulative undergraduate GPA;
1-2 paragraph statement of research interests – including which
M.S. position you are interested in; and
1-2 paragraph statement of career goals.
Campus and Facilities: Washington State University Vancouver
is one of six 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.
Gretchen Rollwagen-Bollens, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
School of the Environment
Washington State University
Office: 360-546-9115
Email: rollboll@wsu.edu
Lab website: https://labs.wsu.edu/aquatic-ecology/
Posted 6/3/25
PhD
Offer | Tree Strategies in Boreal Forests – Québec
Summary: While species richness is often seen as an indicator of
resilience, boreal forests reveal that it is the ecological
strategies of key species that guide forest trajectories. These
strategies — differing in productivity, resilience, and
reproduction — form the foundation of approaches aimed at
understanding and predicting forest responses to global changes.
They are often analyzed through the lens of ecological succession
or functional traits that track changes in forest composition over
time and space. "Acquisitive" species, which are fast-growing and
short-lived, dominate early stages, while "conservative" species
prevail in later stages. However, these approaches do not always
account for the complexity of physiological responses and adaptive
capacities of trees in the context of climate change. This
doctoral project proposes to explore a complementary approach,
focusing on the internal dynamics of trees: endogenous signals —
particularly soluble sugars and plant hormones — that influence
physiological trajectories during key periods of the growing
season. These signals promote essential adaptive responses such as
heat tolerance or frost resistance. They offer a finer, more
dynamic understanding of ecological responses, often more
immediate and sensitive to environmental conditions than
traditional morphological traits.
Project Start Date: Fall 2025 (September – December) or Winter
2026 (January – April)
Scholarship: A research scholarship of $24,000 CAD per year for
four years will be awarded to the selected candidate.
Profile Sought: We are looking for a person with a background in
forestry, biology, natural products chemistry, ecology, plant
physiology, or a related field. A strong interest in plant
physiology and integrative approaches to ecology is essential, as
these fields are at the core of our work. We particularly value a
positive, persevering attitude, combined with natural kindness, in
a collaborative work environment. Creativity, scientific
curiosity, and the ability to conduct projects independently are
also important. The supervision fosters autonomy, curiosity, and
co-construction, and interested candidates will have the
opportunity to develop skills in plant biochemistry, modeling,
imaging analysis, or ecophysiology, depending on their profile.
This project is carried out in an open, collaborative, and
life-respecting research approach. The research team places great
emphasis on inclusivity, well-being, and equity in training paths.
Individuals from diverse backgrounds, including Indigenous
peoples, racialized individuals, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and people
with disabilities, are warmly encouraged to apply.
Location, Supervision, and Research Environment: The selected
candidate will be based at the Forest Research Institute (IRF) at
the University of Quebec in Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT) campus in
Rouyn-Noranda. They will be supervised by Valentina Buttò
(IRF-UQAT), a specialist in functional ecology and forest
modeling, and Serge Lavoie (UQAC, Université Du Québec à
Chicoutimi), a specialist in natural products chemistry.
Required Documents: To express your interest, please send a CV, a
cover letter, copies of your transcripts (which can be
unofficial), and the contact details of two referees to Valentina
Buttò (valentina.butto@uqat.ca)
and Serge Lavoie (s3lavoie@uqac.ca).
Valentina Buttò, PhD (elle/she/her) – Professeure en écologie
fonctionnelle et modélisation des écosystèmes forestiers
Directrice du programme de maîtrise en écologie et aménagement des
écosystèmes forestiers
Institut de recherche sur les forêts (IRF) | Campus Rouyn-Noranda
Comité exécutif de l’IRF – Responsable des relations étudiantes
Comité exécutif du CEF | Centre d’ étude de la forêt –
Représentante du pôle d'Abitibi-Témiscamingue
Tel. 819 762-0971 poste 2153 | Bureau F-215 |uqat.ca
Posted 6/3/25
Graduate Student Opportunities in
Dinnage Lab (University of Alberta): AI Foundation Models for
Organismal Biology
Graduate Student Opportunities in Dinnage Lab
Fully Funded PhD and Msc Positions with Dr. Russell Dinnage
Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta
Start Date: January 2026 to September 2026 (flexible)
Funding: Competitive stipend available through University of
Alberta assistantships and fellowships. Additional funding
opportunities available through external scholarships and
awards.
Research Focus
The Dinnage Lab develops foundation models for organismal
biology – artificial intelligence systems that learn from and
help us understand living systems from molecules to ecosystems.
Our work bridges computational innovation with fundamental
biological questions, creating new approaches that integrate
biological principles into AI architecture design.
Students will have opportunities to engage with three major
research themes:
1. AI-Driven Simulation-Based Inference
Develop novel AI foundation models for population genomics and
phylogenetic comparative methods using Prior-Data Fitted
Networks (PFNs) and other cutting-edge approaches. Projects may
involve creating systems that can infer demographic histories
from population genomic data or model complex trait evolution
across phylogenies.
2. High-Throughput Phenomics
Work with museum collections and citizen science datasets to
develop AI frameworks for automated phenotype extraction and
analysis. Students can develop methods for creating
"digital-first specimens", develop new approaches to large-scale
morphological analysis, or leverage AI to connect different
species' data sources using multimodal models, to create 'vector
databases' for comprehensive biodiversity analysis.
3. AI-Biology Cross-Disciplinary Inquiries
Explore AI systems as model organisms for evolutionary research,
develop biology-inspired explainable AI methods, or create in
silico evolutionary simulations using AI models as
representations of complex phenotypes. This cutting-edge work
examines how evolutionary principles can inform AI development
and vice versa.
Students may also propose projects outside these themes in the
area of computational or quantitative organismal biology, or at
the intersection between organismal biology and machine learning
or artificial intelligence methods.
Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
BSc in biology, ecology, evolution, computer science,
statistics, mathematics, or related field
Strong interest in both organismal biology and computational
methods
Admissible to University of Alberta graduate programs
Competitive Applicants Will Have:
🖥️ Experience with programming in R, Python, or similar
languages
🧠 Background in machine learning, deep learning, or advanced
statistical methods
📊 Experience with large datasets or computational biology
approaches
📝 Strong written and oral communication skills
🌱 Interest in interdisciplinary collaboration and open science
practices
The Advisor
Dr. Russell Dinnage is a newly hired Assistant Professor whose
research develops AI foundation models for understanding
organismal biology. He works at the intersection of the fields
of ecology, evolutionary biology, statistics and computer
science. His work has been published in leading journals
including Nature Ecology & Evolution, Science Advances, and
Evolution. He currently serves as Associate Editor at Methods in
Ecology and Evolution. His research program emphasizes ethical
AI development, open science principles, and collaborative
approaches to complex biological questions.
The Environment
The University of Alberta's Department of Biological Sciences
offers world-class research facilities and a collaborative
environment for interdisciplinary work. Students will have
access to high-performance computing resources, extensive
natural history collections, and opportunities to collaborate
with the Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute (Amii). Edmonton
provides an excellent quality of life with abundant outdoor
recreation opportunities and a vibrant cultural scene.
Application Process
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. For full
consideration for a Jan 2026 start, submit by July 15, 2025
(to allow time for application preparation before the University
of Alberta deadline of August 1, 2025). Please contact me to
discuss potential later start dates.
Before contacting me, please:
Review our recent publications and research themes on the lab
website (https://rdinnager.github.io/dinnage_lab_website)
Familiarize yourself with University of Alberta Biology
Department admission requirements (https://www.ualberta.ca/en/biological-sciences/graduate-studies/for-applicants/index.html)
Explore funding opportunities and program details (https://www.ualberta.ca/en/biological-sciences/graduate-studies/for-applicants/program-funding.html)
Consider additional scholarship opportunities (https://www.ualberta.ca/en/graduate-studies/fees-funding/scholarships-awards/index.html)
Think about which research theme(s) align with your interests
and career goals
To officially apply, please send the following materials as a
single PDF with subject line "Graduate Position - [Your Name]"
to r.dinnage@gmail.com:
📋 Cover letter (max 1 page) describing your research interests,
how they align with the lab's focus, and which theme(s) most
excite you
📊 CV highlighting relevant research experience, programming
skills, and publications/presentations
📝 Transcripts (unofficial acceptable for initial review)
🔬 Writing sample demonstrating your ability to communicate
scientific concepts
📞 Contact information for 2-3 references (academic preferred)
I welcome applications from all qualified candidates and am
committed to fostering an inclusive research environment that
values diverse perspectives and backgrounds.
For questions about potential projects or the application
process, feel free to reach out at r.dinnage@gmail.com
or visit the lab website at https://rdinnager.github.io/dinnage_lab_website/
Posted 5/31/25
Ph.D.
Opportunity in Forest Biogeochemical Cycling
We are seeking a mature, energetic PhD student to work within the
Global Change Ecology Lab at the University of Alabama on a
Natural Climate Change Solutions project at the Savannah River
Site (SRS) in Aiken, South Carolina. The student will have the
opportunity to work with a multi-institutional group including
scientists from the University of Georgia, the U.S. Forest
Service, and the Savannah River National Laboratories. The student
will develop their own study focused on carbon, water, and energy
dynamics.
In this study, we propose to engineer an alternative longleaf
ecosystem, where prescribed fire is replaced with the annual
harvest of a native understory biofuel crop, specifically big
bluestem and Indian grass. This engineered longleaf ecosystem will
thereby provide landowners an opportunity for yearly profits while
maintaining the integrity and development of the forest. We
will determine the success of this project by comparing this
engineered site with two other longleaf-loblolly forests
representative of the region, where prescribed fire is applied
biannually: a 100+ year-old remnant forest and a reclaimed forest
planted with these native grasses. We will determine how
variation in climate interacts with legacy effects to impact
carbon, water and energy exchange over space and time while
testing the viability of native grasses as biofuels to aid in
mitigating fossil fuel emissions.
The position will entail:
1. Monthly trips of 3-6 days of field work
at SRS
2. Maintaining eddy covariance tower
operations
3. Processing and analyzing eddy
covariance data
4. Coordination with our biofuels project
at SRS
The applicant should be highly motivated and hold a minimum of a
bachelor’s degree, with a master’s degree preferred, in
forest ecology, atmospheric sciences, atmospheric chemistry, or a
related field. Proficient R programming skills and a strong
quantitative background are required for this project. Experience
with eddy covariance techniques and Campbell Scientific loggers is
a plus.
NOTE: Applicants without the above skills will not be considered.
A teaching assistantship will support the candidate during the
academic year, and a research assistantship will support the
candidate during the summer. This position includes a
tuition waiver and single-person health insurance.
Interested candidates should contact Gregory Starr (gstarr@ua.edu)
and send a CV, letter of interest, research statement, and a
writing sample.
Gregory Starr | Professor
Biological Sciences
The University of Alabama
3097A Shelby Hall
Box 870344
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487
Phone 205-348-1807
gstarr@ua.edu
| http://starrlab.ua.edu
Posted 5/29/25
PhD
"Traffic impacts on St Lawrence whales", University of Quebec
(UQO), Gatineau, QC, Canada
PhD in Natural Sciences
The role of shipping disturbance on the spatial ecology of
cetaceans in the St. Lawrence
Context
Several species of cetacean frequent the St. Lawrence Estuary and
the Saguenay Fjord. The St. Lawrence Estuary beluga population is
endangered under Canada's Species at Risk Act. One of the three
main threats to its recovery is underwater noise from shipping,
the impacts of which include disturbance, masking of
communications and reduced use of certain habitats. Several
species of large baleen whales also actively use this area,
including the blue whale, fin whale, humpback whale and minke
whale. While the impacts of underwater noise have been described
for several cetacean populations exposed to chronic interactions
with human activities around the world, their characterization for
the St. Lawrence cetaceans is very limited.
The project
Initially, the student will describe the role played by shipping
activities on the spatial ecology of St. Lawrence belugas and
large baleen whales in various ecologically sensitive sectors of
their summer habitat, based on spatial data from maritime traffic
(AIS) and cetacean observations (land-based observations, aerial
surveys, telemetric data and acoustic detections). The potential
effects of traffic that will be explored include the
redistribution of animals, the temporary abandonment of habitats
and changes in cetacean aggregations.
Secondly, the student will explore the ecological mechanisms
underlying the observed decline in the use of certain sensitive
habitats by cetaceans in the increased presence of traffic. This
part of the project will include the implementation of a specific
protocol leading to the collection of in situ data.
The results of the project will be used to refine the cetacean
movement models in the 3MTSim simulator, which models the spatial
interactions between traffic and
cetaceans in the St. Lawrence Estuary and Saguenay Fjord. The
results will also make it possible to recommend realistic
conservation measures aimed at reducing the impact of underwater
shipping noise on belugas and baleen whales, thereby working
towards the recovery of populations of cetaceans with at-risk
status.
The student will work in the highly collaborative and inclusive
work environment of the Laboratoire interdisciplinaire de
simulation socio-écologique (LISSÉ) at UQO alongside several
research professionals and students. The student will also
interact with external partners from the federal (Fisheries and
Oceans Canada, Parks Canada) and provincial (MELCCFP) governments,
as well as experts from environmental NGOs (GREMM) with expertise
in the project's related fields.
Skills required
The student should have an excellent background in spatial
analysis of ecological data, including spatial statistics and
spatial-temporal analysis in R. The candidate should demonstrate
the ability to propose and implement cetacean data acquisition
protocols. The candidate must be comfortable working as part of a
team in an interdisciplinary research context, be able to carry
out literature reviews on technical subjects in English and be
able to communicate scientifically (orally and in writing) in
English. Experience with individual-based modelling (IBM) and
hydroacoustic data is an asset. The person must also be available
to collect data in the field during the summer. Initiative,
listening skills, intrinsic motivation, and autonomy are key
qualities for successfully completing this project.
Practical details
Location: Laboratoire interdisciplinaire de simulation
socio-écologique (LISSÉ), Université du Québec en Outaouais (UQO)
in Gatineau (Hull sector) or Ripon, Quebec, Canada. Regular field
trips (St. Lawrence Estuary and Saguenay Fjord).
Project start date: as soon as possible (autumn 2025 at the
earliest)
Remuneration: 3-year fellowship @ $27,000/year. Numerous
opportunities for additional scholarships.
Application: Send copies of transcripts of all graduate studies,
cover letter and CV to clement.chion@uqo.ca and
angelique.dupuch@uqo.ca
Application deadline: 30 June 2025 or until the position
is filled.
Posted 5/24/25
Graduate
Student Position--seasonal bat health dynamics at Auburn
University
Open Position: Graduate student
Location: Auburn, Alabama
Organization: College of Forestry, Wildlife, and Environment at
Auburn University
Stipend: PhD student, $26,500 per year + benefits
MS student, $23,500 per year + benefits
Estimated Start Date: January 2026
Supervisor: Molly Simonis
Job Summary: The Simonis Lab at Auburn University is hiring a
graduate student(s) to perform research associated with seasonal
pathogen dynamics and bat health throughout various field sites
and/or highway culverts throughout Alabama. The graduate
student(s) would build their own project within broader lab
research to understand 1) year-round shifts in bat infections and
coinfections, and 2) seasonal fluctuations in bat immunity under
many stressors (e.g., infections, contaminant exposure, land use),
and 3) general ecological and conservation research regarding bat
health in the southeastern US. Research projects would include
field, laboratory and quantitative work. Interested applicants are
encouraged to apply. A PhD student is preferred, but highly
qualified MS students will also be seriously considered.
For more information regarding Wildlife Sciences PhD and MS
programs at the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment at
Auburn University, please visit their website here: https://cfwe.auburn.edu/graduate-study/graduate-degrees/.
For more information about the Simonis Lab, please visit their
website here: https://simonislab.weebly.com/.
Responsibilities: The graduate student will be expected to carry
out the following responsibilities:
Conduct literature reviews
Organize and manage datasets
Collaboratively generate and analyze data, which will include the
following:
Collect field data and wildlife samples
Collect laboratory data via molecular assays and microscopy
Statistically analyze, and interpret quantitative data using R
Collaborate with professionals from other institutions and
interdisciplinary backgrounds
Supervising undergraduates necessary
Write and publish findings in peer reviewed scientific journals
Present findings at local, state, regional, national, and/or
international conferences
Meet program requirements and deadlines
Contribute to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and welcoming
atmosphere within the lab, classroom, and college as a whole.
Minimum Qualifications: Ideal candidates will have the following:
Bachelor’s degree in a biology or wildlife-related field
Motivation and Professionalism
Ability to work well with others
Ability to work independently
Ability to develop research questions
Meet admission standards for
AU Graduate School
(https://bulletin.auburn.edu/thegraduateschool/admissions/), and
AU College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment
(https://cfwe.auburn.edu/graduate-study/graduate-degrees/)
Valid driver's license (or ability to obtain one)
Desired Qualifications: Preference may be given to candidates with
any of the following:
MS degree in biology or wildlife-related field (only if applying
for PhD)
Wildlife and/or bat handling experience
Biological sampling experience
Bat survey experience
Bat identification experience
Laboratory technical skills
Quantitative skills
Previous field, technical, and/or research experience
To apply: Please email the following materials as a single PDF
document to Dr. Molly Simonis at molly.simonis@auburn.edu,
with the subject line “AU Potential Graduate Student.”
A cover letter (2 pages max) outlining the wildlife sciences
program of interest (PhD or MS), research interests, how your
previous experiences have prepared you for graduate
school/research, and professional goals
Resume or CV
Contact information for 2-3 professional references
Applications will be accepted through July 31, 2025, but
applicants are encouraged to apply sooner than later as materials
will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Molly Simonis, PhD
Pronouns: she/hers
Assistant Professor
Auburn University
College of Forestry, Wildlife, and Environment
College of Veterinary Medicine
molly.simonis@auburn.edu
simonislab.weebly.com
Posted 5/23/25
*Canada* PhD and MSc opportunties
Fully funded MSc and PhD positions with Dr. April Martinig at
the Université de Sherbrooke
Start date: May 2026 or September 2026 (negotiable)
The pay: minimum $20,000 per year for 2 years for MSc and
$25,000 per year for 4 years for PhD. In Quebec, tuition
fees vary depending on your province or country of
residence (net salary will be adjusted to cover tuition). Tuition
waivers are available for international students.
Students can tailor their research across three themes:
Tracking in the wild: Work with long-term datasets on red
squirrels in the Yukon, exploring the demographic consequences
of behaviour and movement. This project will involve fully
subsidized fieldwork and collaboration with an interdisciplinary
research team.
Meta-analyses: You will have the opportunity to conduct
large-scale syntheses on a topic of your choice - from dispersal
and behaviour to climate resilience, conservation interventions,
or any other ecological or evolutionary theme that sparks
curiosity. This project is ideal for those who enjoy identifying
patterns across studies, asking big-picture questions, and
working with data across systems.
Big data: Use cutting-edge movement datasets from global
wildlife tracking networks (over 14 billion locations from
1,500+ species) to develop predictive models of animal responses
to environmental change. Students will build skills in R,
spatial analysis, and ecological modelling.
Minimum qualifications: BSc and research experience in biology
(e.g., ecology, evolution, or environmental sciences),
statistics, math, computer science, natural resources, or
related fields. Applicants must be admissible to the Biology
Department for a masters
degree (minimum 3.0/4.3 GPA) or doctoral
degree (completed MSc OR 4.0/4.3 BSc GPA). Knowledge of French
is not mandatory (e.g., English theses are permitted).
Competitive applicants will also have:
🧠 Experience working with data in R, Python, or other coding
languages
✍️ Practice communicating science–whether through papers, blogs,
posters, or presentations
🎤 Comfort sharing research with a range of audiences, both
academic and beyond
🤝 Interest or experience in working alongside Indigenous
communities, government agencies, or other partners
Consideration of applications will begin immediately and will
continue until positions are filled. Applicants received by August
1, 2025 will receive full consideration.
I welcome all applicants, including those who identify as
belonging to equity-seeking groups, including (but not limited
to) women, non-binary individuals, persons with disabilities,
Indigenous/Aboriginal peoples, LGBTQIA+, visible minorities, and
first-generation or otherwise non-traditional students.
Qualified applicants should email the following materials, as a
single PDF file, with the subject line "Join@NORTH", to aprilmartinig@hotmail.com:
🌍 A cover letter (max 1 page) telling me which project area
excites you, what you hope to get out of your degree, and a bit
about your background. Please ensure you highlight your
strengths or lived experiences related to equity, diversity, and
inclusion; involvement in outreach, volunteering, or learned
societies; teaching or mentoring experience; or any other
extracurriculars that show what you bring to a research
environment
📄 Transcripts (unofficial)
📚 CV outlining your experience
📝 A writing sample – this could be a class paper, blog post,
report, or anything that shows how you communicate
📞 Contact information (phone number and email) for 3
references: two academic and one non-academic (like a coach,
employer, or community leader)
The advisor: Dr. April Martinig
(she/her) is a wildlife ecologist whose research explores how
animal movement and behaviour are shaped by changing
environments. She specializes in spatial ecology, conservation
biology, and behavioural ecology, with a particular focus on how
anthropogenic pressures influence dispersal and space use. April
is starting as an Assistant Professor at the University of
Sherbrooke in January 2026. Before moving to Sherbrooke, she was
a Banting Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of British
Columbia Okanagan (2024-2025), an NSERC Postdoctoral Fellow at
the University of New South Wales (2022-2024), and got her PhD
at the University of Alberta (2016-2021).
The university: These positions will be based in the Département de
biologie at the Université de Sherbrooke,
located on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded W8banaki
Ndakina Nation Territory (Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada). The
Université de Sherbrooke is a francophone university, but
knowledge of French is not mandatory. The ecology program at the
Université de Sherbrooke is anchored by the Centre de recherche
en écologie de l’Université de Sherbrooke, a dynamic
research hub of 13 investigators and over 50 graduate students
and postdocs. Graduate students contribute to cutting-edge
projects on population dynamics, behavioural ecology, and
ecosystem function, often working in collaborative,
multidisciplinary teams.
The location: Sherbrooke
is Quebec’s 6th largest metropolitan area (20th largest in
Canada). It's known for its rich
cultural diversity and is considered one
of the most affordable cities in Canada to live in.
Sherbrooke offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities,
including skiing at Mont-Bellevue Park, hiking, and exploring
the surrounding natural areas. It is also 1.5 hours away from
Montreal, the largest city in Quebec and the 2nd largest city in
Canada.
Dr. April Martinig, Ph.D., M.Sc.
Banting postdoctoral fellow
Quantitive
Ecology Lab | Prof. Michael J. Noonan
University of British Columbia | Okanagan
Email: aprilmartinig@hotmail.com
Website: martinig.weebly.com
Google Scholar: April
Robin Martinig
Pronouns: she/her
Posted 5/22/25
Graduate
position: Grassland arthropod ecology at Kansas State University
The Welti Arthropod Ecology lab is seeking applicants for a
graduate student (MSc or PhD) position in the Division of Biology,
at Kansas State University. This position is based in the college
town of Manhattan, Kansas, USA, in the (beautiful!) Flint Hills
region of the central Great Plains. Fieldwork will likely occur at
nearby Konza Prairie Biological Station, with the potential to
conduct research at other grassland field sites. Research
questions and approaches can be tailored based on student’s
interests but will examine one of the following topics:
1) Identifying arthropod community
responses to presence and densities of mammalian herbivores
through experiment manipulations of herbivore effects,
2) Quantifying the ecological roles played
by arthropods with a focus on nutrient cycling and decomposition
and how and why these roles are changing, or
3) Testing for long-term changes in inter
and intra-specific traits of grasshopper communities.
We are seeking students that would begin in Jan 2026 (Spring
semester). The position includes a stipend of $28,193.88 annually
($1084.38 bi-weekly, 26 pay periods), and coverage of tuition,
health care, and university fees.
Requirements
· Hold an undergraduate
degree in ecology, biology, or related field by time of hire
· Be respectful to all
team members from diverse backgrounds
· Enthusiasm for
arthropod and/or grassland ecology
· Strong oral and
written communication skills
· Ability to work
effectively independently and as part of a team
· Follows safety
protocols
· A valid driver’s
license
· Enjoy being outdoors
and willingness to work outside in hot weather
· Willingness to invest
large amounts of time inside processing arthropods and other
ecological samples
Preferred qualifications
· Previous experience in
plant- and/or arthropod-related field work
· Plant and/or arthropod
identification skills, especially in grasslands
· Demonstrated
experience conducting independent research
· Statistical experience
and using the R coding language
Interested applicants should apply by submitting your application
materials to Ellen Welti (elwelti@ksu.edu). Your
application materials should include (1) a brief personal
statement (no more than one page) detailing your academic
background, previous research experience, reasons for pursuing
graduate school, your specific current research interests, and how
your research interests relate to at least one of the research
topics proposed above, (2) your CV, (3) informal undergraduate
transcripts, and (4) contact information for three references.
Application materials must be submitted as one combined PDF file.
Please put “Arthropod Ecology graduate application” as the email
subject line.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis (open
immediately) but no later than June 15, 2025.
Welti Arthropod Ecology Lab
The Welti Arthropod Ecology is moving from the Smithsonian’s Great
Plains Science Program to Kansas State University in late Fall
2025. We study what, how, and why grassland arthropod communities
vary over space and time and the repercussions of this variation.
Our lab is a welcoming and inclusive environment where
discrimination is not tolerated. We prioritize the well-being of
all lab members and collaborators and value scientific integrity,
strong communication, work-life balance, and scientific mentoring
and research opportunities for all experience levels.
Why Manhattan, KS, Kansas State University Biology, and Konza
Prairie?
Manhattan, KS is a friendly college town with a population of 55K
residents +>20K college students, affordable housing within
walking distance of campus, a temperate climate with four seasons,
an airport with multiple daily flights to Chicago and Dallas, a
large number of local coffee shops, two downtown districts, art
and natural history museums, and is a two hour drive away from
Kansas City, a 500K+ city with many cultural amenities.
Kansas State University (KSU) is a 162-year-old public land grant
and R1 research university with a large centrally located campus
in Manhattan, KS. KSU has >20K students including >4K
graduate students and 65 academic departments within 9 colleges.
KSU’s Division of Biology within the College of Arts and Sciences
contains ~40 faculty and ~55 graduate students spanning a broad
variety of research interests and an open and collaborative
atmosphere. More information about the Division of Biology at
Kansas State University is available at https://www.k-state.edu/biology/.
Konza Prairie Biological Station, an 8,616-acre tallgrass prairie
research station jointly owned and operated by KSU and The Nature
Conservancy, is a 15 min drive from the KSU campus, hosts a herd
of 200-300 bison, several cattle allotments, a large-scale fire
experiment, and is a global hub for grassland research. More
information about Konza Prairie is available at: https://kpbs.konza.k-state.edu/
and https://lter.konza.ksu.edu/konza-prairie-long-term-ecological-research-lter.
Posted 5/20/25
Butterfly
Ecology and Conservation – Washington State University,
Vancouver, WA
Butterfly Ecology and Conservation – Washington State
University
We seek a new MS or PhD student to join the lab to work on an
ecological project to advance conservation of monarch butterfly at
Washington State University on our Vancouver campus. Student will
be part of a project team with collaborators at UC Davis, Xerces
Society for Invertebrate Conservation, and others.
Our work focuses on at-risk butterflies and their habitats in the
Pacific Northwest to address broad ecological questions to advance
conservation on-the-ground. Broadly we use a population ecology
lens to gain understanding and to fill knowledge gaps which limit
our ability to recover at-risk species. We work closely with
federal, state and local agencies as well as non-profit
organizations to conduct research which is useful and practical
for these organizations while building on a strong foundation in
ecological theory. Students from our program have secured career
positions with many of these organizations. For this new position,
thesis research direction will complement and support field
aspects of funded projects with considerable time in the field in
eastern Oregon and Washington.
Washington State University Vancouver is a small campus in the WSU
system located in Southwest Washington just across the Columbia
River from Portland, Oregon, is close to Willamette Valley and
South Puget Sound prairies and an hour from the Pacific Coast.
Students benefit from outstanding faculty, world-class research,
small class sizes and state-of-the-art facilities – including a
new Biology lab and greenhouse which opened in 2024. http://cas.vancouver.wsu.edu/science-graduate-programs/
Interested students should send a CV/resume, transcripts and a
cover letter describing past research experience and future
research interests to Dr. Cheryl Schultz, schultzc@wsu.edu
The position requires excellent field, leadership, and
organizational skills and a strong interest in butterfly ecology
and conservation. We encourage interested students to get in touch
to learn more about the program and research in our labs. Note
that the admitted graduate student will formally matriculate in
Fall and the position can start as a technician in the lab in
Summer 2025 (exact start date is negotiable). Letters of interest
will be reviewed as they are received.
More information on our work and about instructions to apply to
become a graduate student in our lab, please see https://vancouver.labs.wsu.edu/conservation-biology/
including our newest publications on western monarch ecology and
our collaborative effort to assess the Status of Butterflies in
the United States. For background on our monarch work related to
our current funding, please see final reports in the Publication
list - Schultz et al. 2019 and 2021 with the Department of Defense
Legacy Natural Resources Program.
Cheryl B. Schultz
Professor
School of Biological Sciences
Washington State University
14204 NE Salmon Creek Ave.
Vancouver, WA 98686
schultzc@wsu.edu
360-546-9525
https://vancouver.labs.wsu.edu/conservation-biology/
Posted 5/20/25
M.S. or PhD Position in Watershed
Ecology and Restoration
M.S. or PhD Position in Watershed Ecology and Restoration
Department of Natural Resources Science, University of Rhode
Island
One graduate assistantship (MS or PhD) in watershed ecology and
restoration is available in the Bio-Funk Lab in the Department
of Natural Resources Science at the University of Rhode Island
beginning in August 2025. Highly motivated students with
experience in field ecology, environmental science, soil
biogeochemistry, and related fields are encouraged to apply to
work on projects related to the following themes:
Evaluating the effects of animal engineering on the successional
trajectories of watershed ecosystems, with a focus on
understanding how these animal-mediated actions affect the
development of critical biogeochemical processes (e.g., carbon
and nitrogen cycling) and ecosystem functions (e.g.
decomposition, sedimentation). Much of this work is focused on
improving restoration strategies in freshwater and coastal
waterways. Current projects in this theme focus on the impacts
of burrowing fiddler crabs on the recovery of foundation plant
communities in tidal marshes and the impacts of freshwater
mussels on stream stability and water quality.
Impacts of biodiversity loss, especially predatory species, on
the biological structure and ecosystem functions of watershed
habitats. Current projects include assessing how declining
shorebird populations cascade to affect burrowing crab activity
and blue carbon storage and how harvesting-mediated declines in
blue crab populations affect tidal marsh stability.
Interested students should contract Dr. Shelby Rinehart via
email (rinehart.shelby88@gmail.com
or sr3695@drexel.edu),
and include copies of their CV, unofficial transcript(s), and a
writing sample by June 16th 2025. Qualified applicants
will be interviewed via zoom and finalists will be invited to
apply to the Biological
and Environmental Sciences (BES) graduate program (PhD or
MS).
This is a funded graduate position that includes tuition
waivers, stipends (academic and summer), and health benefits.
The stipend will be supported by a graduate research or teaching
assistantship.
Shelby Rinehart PhD
Assistant Professor
Posted 5/15/25
PhD
and Postdoctoral Opportunities – Herbivore Ecology, Behavior,
and Immunology Lab, Virginia Tech
Application Deadline: 1 August 2025
Start date: November, 2025
Qualififcations
Applicants must have completed at least a Bachelor’s degree or
equivalent by the start date of the position and should have a
strong interest in entomology. Preference will be given to
students with prior research experience and/or a background in
entomology, physiology, behavior and chemical ecology. Competitive
candidates will have strong writing skills, substantial experiment
designing experience, and a strong work ethic.
Description
The HEBI Lab is seeking two graduate students (PhD applicants are
preferred although applicants for a MS degree may be considered)
and one postdoc to work on trophic interactions between
plant-caterpillar and their natural enemies. In particular, the
lab is interested in looking at how plant chemistry impacts
caterpillar physiology, immunology and behavior altering their
interactions with third trophic organisms. The lab uses
interdisciplinary perspectives, from behavior experiments and
eco-immunology assays to chemical ecology approaches. There’s a
lot of room for students and postdocs to carve out their own
projects based on what excites them the most.
Application materials
Interested candidates should send CV, letter describing relevant
research background and interests, and contact information for
three references to the lab PI, Enakshi Ghosh. Include “HEBI
Application 2025 - Your Name” in the subject line.
Contact person: Dr. Enakshi Ghosh. FRES
Email: enakshi@vt.edu
Posted 5/2/25
Rangeland Science Master’s Student
Position Announcement
The Martyn Lab invites applications for students to the
Rangeland Science Master’s program at Oregon State University in
the Department of Animal and Rangeland Science to explore
drivers of rangeland restoration success in the PNW and Great
Basin. The Martyn Lab is based at the Eastern Oregon
Agricultural Research Center in Union, Oregon and has a number
of ongoing projects exploring the impacts of climate and other
abiotic stressors on emergence and interactions between invasive
annual grasses and restoration/native species. To investigate
questions on these topics, the lab implements research in a
variety of ways including fieldwork, labwork,
glasshouse/greenhouse studies, and simulation modeling. See www.martynecologylab.com
for more information.
The student’s research would be part of ongoing work on
seed-based rangeland restoration and could include exploring:
- Climate impacts on
invasive and native/desired plant species establishment and
interactions
- Seed technologies to
enhance plant establishment
- Understanding the outcomes
of plant interactions between invasive annual grasses and
native/desired species
The Master’s student and Dr. Martyn will work together to
identify research questions for the Master’s research and
thesis. The student will be expected to work on all aspects of
the research project and lead the preparation of at least one
peer-reviewed manuscript. They will have opportunities to
identify their own professional development priorities to
advance their chosen career path. This position is funded for
two years. The expected start date is Fall 2025.
Requirements include a valid US driver’s license and Bachelor’s
degree in a related field and other requirements for application
to the OSU graduate program (https://anrs.oregonstate.edu/anrs/how-apply).
Preferred qualifications would be experience in: working in the
field in a variety of weather conditions, designing and
implementing research, and statistical analysis (e.g.,
experience with R).
Interested candidates should email a letter addressing their
qualifications, their graduate school and career goals, and
their interest in rangeland restoration to Dr. Martyn. In
addition, students should also send via email their unofficial
transcripts, a curriculum vitae (CV) including publications, and
the contact information for two references to the contact
information below.
For full consideration please contact Dr. Martyn before June
15, 2025. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling
basis.
Dr. Trace Martyn
Email: martyn.ecology@gmail.com
Email: trace.martyn@oregonstate.edu
Website: Martynecologylab.com
Assistant Professor of Rangeland Science
Oregon State University
Corvallis, Oregon
Eastern Oregon Agricultural Research Center (EOARC)
Union, Oregon
Eastern Oregon Agriculture and Natural Resource Program (EOANRP)
Eastern Oregon University
La Grande, Oregon
Posted 4/19/25
![[Return Arrow]](file:///Volumes/boycer/www/cylarrw.gif)
Return to
Graduate School Page
