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Top | Fellowship Program Links

Assistantship and Fellowships:

Arizona State University: PhD Positions in Ecosystem Sciences and/or Microbial Ecology: "Eco-physiological studies of greenhouse gas dynamics in tropical peatlands". The Cadillo Lab is seeking two PhD students to begin in 2027. Research in the Cadillo Lab examines interdisciplinary topics related to ecosystem processes, carbon cycling, and the role of microbes in ecosystem solutions at multiple scales, from the microbial to the regional, with an emphasis on tropical regions. One PhD position focuses on transdisciplinary work in ecosystem analysis and integrating microbial activity and greenhouse gas flux predictions across pristine, degraded, or managed Tropical Peatlands. The incoming PhD student will study the spatial ecology of decomposers and greenhouse gas-cycling microbes, use genomic and metagenomic approaches to evaluate and predict microbial traits and their variation (cultured and uncultured), and collaboratively integrate trait-based values into GHG flux modeling, ecosystem restoration, and natural carbon solutions. This project uses a trait-based framework for key microbial guilds, including decomposers and GHG-producing or consuming microbes and their feedback to climate change. The second PhD position expands the project's transdisciplinary nature and builds on high-intensity observations, including Eddy Covariance, remote sensing detection, hydrological monitoring, and ecosystem modeling, merging them with eco-societal studies to develop ecosystem-based natural solutions for rural or urban communities. A numerically driven background with experience in ecosystem sciences will be the ideal profile to join a multi-member team and develop geospatial outcomes built on an emerging network of towers in tropical peatlands. Contributions will focus on soil carbon stability across climates, GHG dynamics and emissions, and the role of vegetation in GHG fluxes and removal. The students will join either an active NSF project or conduct independent research. Activities include fieldwork in English-, Spanish-, and Portuguese-speaking countries, depending on the project. Prior research experience in genomics or metagenomics, microbial physiology, and molecular microbial ecology is desirable for the first position; meanwhile, experience in ecosystem sciences, Eddy Covariance, or remote sensing is desirable for the second position, and any level of numerical modeling is a plus but not strictly required. The student will be expected to work collaboratively, participate in international training, and bridge field- and laboratory-based research. Students with an appropriate background in any of the following fields: earth and environmental sciences, microbiology, bioinformatics, geochemistry, or related fields are encouraged to apply. We will give preference to students with a publication record or a master’s degree, strong quantitative skills, and relevant experience. Graduate studies begin in Fall 2027, depending on project needs. To express interest before formally applying, please email Prof. Cadillo-Quiroz at cadillo-lab-appl@asu.edu and include a CV and a statement of your research interests and experience. Candidates are to be considered for admission through the PhD in Biology, PhD in Environmental Life Sciences (or Earth System Sciences), PhD in Microbiology, and PhD in Molecular Biology programs (November 15 is the expected deadline across programs, although late submissions could be considered). Posted: 10/23/26.

Arkansas State University: The Microbial Ecology Lab (Nguyen Lab) in Department of Biological Sciences at Arkansas State University is looking for a motivated master’s student for Spring 2026 or Fall 2027 to investigate how the unique geological formation of Crowley’s Ridge acts as a microbial reservoir for the surrounding Mississippi Alluvial Plain (The Delta). In Northeast Arkansas (NEA), Crowley’s Ridge stands as a biological island of loess-derived hardwood forest surrounded by one of the most intensively farmed regions on Earth. This shift raises a critical question: Do the undisturbed soils of the Ridge harbor wild microbial lineages that could be used to restore the exhausted microbiomes of heavily cultivated Delta soils? This project combines rugged field sampling in NEA with high-end genomic sequencing and greenhouse trials to find out. Project Objectives: 1. Characterize the microbial community structure along a transect from undisturbed Ridge forests to intensive Delta monocultures. 2. Identify microbial taxa that are present in the Ridge but are lost in agricultural systems due to chemical and physical disturbance. 3. Evaluate the potential of wild Ridge soil inoculants to improve crop resilience and nutrient cycling in depleted Delta silt-loams. Methods: · Collect soil cores and rhizosphere samples from forest, ecotone, and field sites. · Perform amplicon sequencing to analyze microbial community composition. · Conduct greenhouse microbial transplant experiments using Ridge-derived inoculums on Arkansas cash crops. · Laboratory analyses including soil physiochemical properties, microbial activities, and bioinformatic pipelines in R. Locations: · Field work across Crowley’s Ridge and the Delta. · Greenhouse trials and laboratory analyses at Department of Biological Sciences and Arkansas Bioscience Institute at Arkansas State University. Requirements/Preferred Qualifications: · Strong interest and prior experience in microbial community analysis. · Prior experience in a wet lab with an independent research project and a foundational understanding of microbiology and soil science is highly preferred. · Ability to travel for field campaigns in Northeast Arkansas. Comfort working in rugged terrain and the Delta heat (high humidity, insects, digging, carrying equipment). · Strong writing skills and a genuine interest in teaching and academic outreach. Reach out to me at trnguyen[at]astate.edu with your CV, a brief statement of your previous research experience, and why you are interested in this position. Posted: 9/18/26.

Binghamton University: The Swierk Organismal Ecology Lab in the Department of Biological Sciences at Binghamton University (SUNY) is seeking 1-2 PhD students to join the lab starting Fall 2027 or Spring 2028. Our lab is broadly interested in the function, evolution, and underlying mechanisms of traits associated with animal communication, reproduction, and predator avoidance. We study how selection and phenotypic plasticity shape these traits in heterogeneous environments. Much of our lab’s work is addressed using reptiles (primarily anoles) and amphibians in the Neotropics and in the Northeastern USA. The Swierk Lab seeks PhD students who are interested in developing questions that build upon our existing work in either of two research areas: 1) animal body coloration as a dynamic signal in conspecific and heterospecific communication, with an emphasis on visual modeling with respect to animal visual systems; and 2) specialized adaptations facilitating antipredator strategies, specifically the morphology, behavior, and respiratory physiology of rebreathing in semi-aquatic anoles. These projects will be developed using Neotropical anoles as a study system. Applicants should have a BA/BS in a related field (MS preferred but not required), relevant research experience, demonstrated scientific writing and communication skills, and willingness to spend 2–3 summer months each year conducting research at Neotropical field stations. Preferred candidates will have strong statistical skills and prior experience with tropical field research, animal behavior, and/or herpetology. Interest in pursuing external grants and fellowships (e.g., NSF GRFP) is also encouraged. Binghamton University (BU) is the top-ranked institution in the SUNY system and is consistently rated as one of the premier public universities in the Northeast. BU is included in the Carnegie Classification system's "very high research activity" (R1) category. PhD students are supported by tuition-waived teaching assistantships. To indicate interest: Please email LSwierk@binghamton.edu with a subject line “Prospective PhD 2027”. In the email, please include which of the two research areas (outlined above) you are interested in, a brief description of past research experience, your GPA and relevant coursework, and your CV with references. You may also send reprints of published papers or writing samples, if you wish. Qualified applicants will later be invited to send in a formal application to BU’s Graduate School. Posted: 10/2/26.

Boston University: The labs of Pamela Templer and Jennifer Bhatnagar are seeking highly motivated Ph.D students to work on a National Science Foundation (NSF)-funded study titled “Do Shifts in Plant Carbon Allocation Facilitate Plant Nutrient Uptake & Primary Productivity in the Face of Oligotrophication in Northern Hardwood Forests?” This project is part of our ongoing Hubbard Brook Nitrogen Oligotrophication (HBNO) project. One Ph.D position is available in each lab, and placement would depend on the specific interests and qualifications of the successful applicants. Applicants should have interest and/or experience in one or more of the following areas: • Forest ecology, biogeochemistry, or plant/microbial ecology, including field and/or laboratory studies • Preparation and bioinformatics of high-throughput -omics datasets • Generation and analysis of plant or soil biogeochemistry data • Programming in R or other software for data manipulation and analysis. Projects will be developed in collaboration with the PIs and will be centered on plant tissue and soil analyses and root/microbial 15N tracer experiments, including 15N stable isotope probing, across an elevation gradient at the Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) site in New Hampshire, USA. Minimum qualifications include: • A Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Biology, Ecology, Bioinformatics, Geology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Mycology, or a related scientific discipline • Relevant research experience • Strong science writing and communication skills • Ability to work independently and as a productive member of a team. The students will be expected to carry out a portion of the specific work outlined in the NSF project and will also have the opportunity to develop related studies within their specific areas of interest as they relate to forest biogeochemistry and microbial ecology in the context of changing N availability. Research includes potential collaborations with project partners at City University of New York, Cornell University, Virginia Tech, Syracuse University, and the U.S. Forest Service. Stipend support is included in the position. Start date will be between May-September 1, 2027. Interested prospective Ph.D students should email the following to Pam Templer (ptempler@bu.edu) AND Jennifer Bhatnagar (jmbhat@bu.edu) using the email subject “Prospective HBNO PhD Student”: • A brief cover letter outlining your research interests, background relevant to the project, and how you meet the minimum qualifications. • A current CV with a list of 3 potential references and their contact info. Posted: 8/26/26.

Cornell University: The Watershed Biogeochemistry in the Anthropocene Lab is recruiting a motivated, collaborative, and curious PhD student. The student will examine hotspots for methylmercury production within waterbodies of the Peruvian Amazon, as part of a project funded by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation. Mercury is transformed by microbial activity into methylmercury – the form of mercury that is toxic and can bioaccumulate. The largest source of mercury contamination is artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM), which uses mercury to isolate gold. Yet nearly all current understanding of mercury cycling originates from studies conducted in the Global North, which emits primarily ionic mercury from coal combustion, rather than elemental mercury from artisanal gold mining in the Global South and has different ecosystem structure and climate from the Global South. These differences in mercury speciation and environmental conditions alter how mercury is transported across the landscape and bioaccumulated in organisms and has implications for wildlife and indigenous communities living in the Global South. This project focuses on determining mercury transport and methylation pathways in the Peruvian Amazon to create a more nuanced, globally representative understanding of mercury cycling processes and to update existing models. More info on how to join us. Posted: 9/18/26.

Duke University: Remote Sensing of Ecology: The Qiu Lab is recruiting one fully funded Ph.D. student to begin in Fall 2027. Our research integrates ecological observations, remote sensing, statistical modeling, and AI to understand and predict changes in biodiversity and ecosystems. The student will develop an independent research direction within or across the following themes: 1. Ecological remote sensing for forest and savanna ecosystems. Investigate spatial and temporal variation in ecosystem structure, functioning, and dynamics using imaging spectroscopy, LiDAR, satellite time series, and quantitative models. 2. Biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. Examine how interactions between plants and wildlife, fire, grazing, and wildlife reintroductions influence biodiversity and ecosystem processes, including carbon and nutrient cycling. 3. AI for Ecology. Develop and apply advanced AI methods, including deep learning and foundation models, to uncover ecological patterns and improve predictions using large-scale Earth observation and ecological monitoring data. Preferred Qualifications: Applicants with backgrounds in ecology, environmental science, remote sensing, geography, statistics, computer science, or related fields are welcome. Experience with R/Python, quantitative analysis, remote sensing, ecological modeling, or machine learning is preferred. We value intellectual curiosity, research initiative, and collaboration. How to Apply: Apply through Duke's Ph.D. in Ecology (deadline: December 1, 2026) or Environment (deadline: December 3, 2026). Interested applicants are encouraged to contact tong.qiu@duke.edu with a CV and brief statement of research interests. Posted: 10/12/26.

Cal Poly Pomona: The Scordato Lab invites applications for a Master’s student to study avian ecology in a Southern California agroecosystem. The Scordato lab is part of the SPACES Institute, a NASA-funded initiative aimed at integrating remote sensing data into on-the-ground assessments of biodiversity and ecosystem services. The SPACES Institute includes faculty from Cal Poly Pomona, UC Santa Barbara, and the UC Agriculture and Natural Resources extension. We work closely with farmers and conservation non-profits throughout our study region with the overall aim of improving biodiversity in complex agricultural landscapes. We are recruiting a Master’s student to study how native plant restoration and landscape-level vegetation structure affect avian communities across spatial scales. There is broad scope for the student to develop independent lines of inquiry, but any project will involve point counts in the field and use of remote sensing products. The student will have access to >4 years of longitudinal data on bird community structure, data on arthropod communities, newly collected high-resolution lidar and hyperspectral data, as well as existing NASA remote sensing products. The Master’s student will be expected to work on all aspects of the research project, collaborate closely with other members of our interdisciplinary research team, participate in public outreach, and lead the preparation of at least one peer-reviewed manuscript. This position is funded for two years with the possibility of a third year. The expected start date is Summer 2027. Required qualifications: 1) a Bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, wildlife biology, or similar field; 2) strong writing and quantitative skills; 3) a valid US driver’s license. Preferred qualifications (but do not hesitate to apply if you do not have these): 1) experience with avian point counts and/or strong identification skills for Southern California birds; 2) experience conducting field research, particularly in challenging conditions; 3) familiarity with R and/or Python; and/or 4) experience working with geospatial data. Please reach out to Liz Scordato at escordato@cpp.edu with any questions. To apply, please send the following to escordato@cpp.edu by November 13th: Cover Letter (max 1 page), CV with academic and professional experience , The names and contact information for 2-3 references . Review of applications will begin November 13th, and interviews will be scheduled for mid to late November. Posted: 10/23/26.

Eastern Washington University (Cheney, Washington) invites applicants for our Master of Science program in Biology. The EWU Biology MS is a thesis-based program that emphasizes research. A variety of specialties are available, including aquatic and riparian ecology, cell biology, ecophysiology, fisheries, genetics, microbiology, molecular ecology, vertebrate physiology, restoration ecology, toxicology, and wildlife (see Faculty & Staff). We welcome applicants from a diversity of backgrounds, including those underrepresented in biology. Financial support is available through Graduate Service Appointments (GSAs), which provide tuition-waiver and wages for a 20 hour per week teaching responsibility (currently $20.62 per hour). Additional funding may be available through individual faculty. For full GSA consideration for Fall 2027, applications are due February 10, 2027. Admission requires an undergraduate degree in Biology or a related field, 3.0 GPA, and approval of an EWU faculty member willing to serve as the thesis advisor. The GRE is not required. Application information | Biology Department | EWU Graduate Programs. For questions contact Dr. Camille McNeely (fmcneely@ewu.edu). Posted: 11/6/26.

ETH Zürich: The Species Interactions and Ecosystem Health group is seeking two motivated Doctoral candidates to join the project AniCaRes – Animating Carbon Restoration. The project aims to investigate how animal communities shape tropical forest regeneration and carbon recovery across spatial scales. The project combines tropical field experiments, molecular ecology, DNA metabarcoding/eDNA, animal monitoring, remote sensing, and ecological modeling, with fieldwork primarily in Panama and Brazil. More information. Deadline: 10 Nov 2026. Posted: 10/23/26.

Florida International University: The Seascape Ecology and Coastal Fisheries labs at FIU, in Miami, FL have open PhD positions For Fall 2027. We seek motivated students with a passion for coastal food webs, trophic dynamics, and recreational fisheries. Research will focus on drivers of energy pathways/use, and how mobile, recreational fisheries track prey landscapes and couple food webs across coastal ecosystems, especially as a function of hydroclimatic heterogeneity across riverscapes and seascapes, and the implications of these responses for fisheries sustainability, Everglades restoration, and climate change. Research will combine several methodologies, including stable isotopes, gut content assessments, prey sampling, acoustic telemetry, and habitat mapping. Graduate work will also be conducted in collaboration with the Florida Coastal Everglades Long Term Ecological Research Program (FCE LTER) and the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan. Competitive support will be a combination of research & teaching assistantships. The ideal candidate has a strong interest in and experience with fish ecology, spatial/movement/trophic ecology, and recreational fisheries; excellent writing and quantitative skills; and prior lab and field fish/fisheries experience. A Master’s degree, R coding experience, and prior publications are a plus. We are an energetic team of ecologists interested in understanding the drivers of food web structure and function, how consumers track spatially heterogeneous energy resources, and how species movement influences fisheries and responds to restoration efforts. Our sister labs are led by Dr. Rolando O. Santos, seascape ecologist, and Dr. Jenn Rehage, fish ecologist. Our approach to food webs-fisheries-seascape research questions focuses on understanding both ecological processes and patterns, and we thrive on studies that blend the two to inform management, conservation, and restoration efforts in partnership with stakeholders, coproducing science that is fundamental, solutions-oriented & actionable. To apply: Please email Dr. Rolando Santos at rsantosc@fiu.edu and Dr. Jenn Rehage at rehagej@fiu.edu. In your email, please include: 1) a cover letter (describing research interests, experience, and fit to our labs), 2) CV 3) other supporting documents as needed (unofficial transcripts, publications/presentations, popular writing samples, etc.). Please combine these materials into a single PDF and use ‘PhD applicant 2027 + your name’ as the subject line in your email. We advise students to apply through the Biological Sciences Department. Deadline: December 1, 2026. Posted: 10/23/26.

Florida State University: The Williams Lab in the Department of Biological Science is recruiting a PhD student interested in community ecology to join the lab starting in Fall 2027. The PhD student would study resource-consumer interactions between seed-producing trees (such as pines and oaks) and seed-consuming vertebrates (mainly mice). Potential research topics include temporal resource dynamics, diet analysis, vertebrate population dynamics, interactions among multiple trophic levels, and/or fire ecology. Students will have the opportunity to conduct fieldwork in the longleaf pine savannas of northern Florida and/or southern Georgia. Applicants should have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in ecology, environmental science, biology, or a related field. Prior experience with fieldwork, data analysis, and scientific writing is preferred. To apply, email Dr. Peter Williams (pwilliams15@fsu.edu) by November 1st, 2026 with the subject line "Prospective PhD Student". Include (1) your CV or resume, (2) a one-page cover letter summarizing your research background, research interests, and why you are interested in joining the lab, and (3) contact information for 2-3 professional references. Zoom interviews will be scheduled with the most competitive applicants. Selected applicants will then be asked to officially apply to the FSU biology graduate program by December 1st. Posted: 10/23/26.

Illinois State University: MS and PhD openings are available in my research group (Javier delBarco-Trillo’s lab) in the School of Biological Sciences to start in the fall of 2027. My research topics are quite diverse, including sexual selection (sperm competition), olfactory communication, urban ecology/evolution, and animal behavior. Current projects for example are investigating how urbanization affects ultrasonic vocalizations and sperm function. Although I’m happy to supervise projects in various topics and organisms, I’m particularly searching for prospective students interested in projects centered on how sperm physiology is affected by factors such as urbanization and altitude. I’m mostly interested in supporting self-driven, independent, and imaginative students with high proficiency in written and spoken English, and with experience collecting and analyzing data. If interested, please send (jdelbar@ilstu.edu) a copy of your CV, a copy of your course transcript, and a one-page cover letter explaining your background, any research outcomes to date, your future research interests and expectations, and what type of research projects you would envision developing in my lab. Please include “Graduate Student Application 2027” in the email subject line. After an initial screening of applications, we will set up Zoom meetings in the next few weeks. Preferred candidates will then be encouraged to formally apply to our graduate program, which deadline is February 1, 2027. Please see more information about our graduate program and its admission requirements. Posted: 10/23/26.

Iowa State University: The Tomamichel Lab in the Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology (EEOB) is seeking a motivated MS or PhD student. Our research sits at the intersection of aquatic ecology, host-parasite dynamics, environmental cycles, and anthropogenic influences. We balance fundamental ecological theory with practical applications in management and conservation strategy. Position Details Funding: Supported through a combination of Research Assistantships (RA) and Teaching Assistantships (TA). Core Responsibilities: Conducting field and/or lab research, collaborating with interdisciplinary project partners, presenting findings at scientific conferences, publishing in peer-reviewed journals, and contributing to a supportive, collaborative lab environment. We encourage applicants with experience or strong interest in any of the following areas: - Field collection and sampling of aquatic organisms - Molecular or microscopic laboratory techniques - Quantitative skills (spatial analysis, time-series modeling, mechanistic modeling, and/or experimental design) Interested candidates should send the following materials directly to Dr. Megan Tomamichel at megantom@iastate.edu by November 15. - Current Resume / CV - A short paragraph outlining your research background, academic interests, and why you are interested in joining the lab. - Unofficial transcripts of undergraduate and/or graduate training - Contact information for three professional references. Posted: 10/23/26.

Louisiana State University New Orleans: The Coastal Benthic Ecology Lab at LSU New Orleans in collaboration with University of Hawaii and College of Charleston is seeking a graduate student to study the resilience of rocky intertidal communities. The project will examine Hawaiian rocky intertidal community resilience to unprecedented Kona Low flooding. The student will do surveys of benthic organisms during negative low tides and compare species coverage and densities pre- and post-flooding with historical datasets to determine community resistance and recovery. The graduate student (MS or PhD) would attend LSU New Orleans yet survey rocky intertidal zones in the state of Hawai‘i over a 9-month period. The student will be supported by an NSF RAPID for one year. An additional year(s) of support will need to be procured through teaching assistantships or outside funding. Applications are due October 1st, 2026, for spring admission in 2027. The student must be willing to relocate to New Orleans by the start of spring semester. Interested students can email tecox@lsuneworleans.edu and find more information about the department and application process. Posted: 8/28/26.

Michigan State University: The Evans Lab at MSU's Kellogg Biological Station is recruiting PhD or Msc students in microbial ecology and global change biology for Fall 2027. We study how microbial communities respond to environmental change and how they, in turn, influence ecosystem function, with particular interests in climate and land-use change, plant–microbe interactions, microbial community assembly, and carbon and nutrient cycling. Graduate projects will build on research at the KBS Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) site and/or Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center (GLBRC), while developing their own questions within these systems. Recent work has investigated microbial contributions to plant drought tolerance, bacterial–fungal interactions and nitrogen availability, and effects of agricultural management on soil health, microbial communities, and soil carbon cycling. KBS's long-term experiments and datasets provide opportunities to develop new questions at the intersection of microbial ecology, global change, and agroecosystem sustainability. KBS provides an unusually rich setting for this work. It hosts long-term research programs including the KBS LTER and Long-Term Agroecosystem Research (LTAR) sites, which investigate agricultural landscapes from complementary ecological and agricultural perspectives, as well as research associated with GLBRC. These programs provide access to long-term experiments, environmental datasets, archived samples, and a broad community of collaborators in ecosystem ecology, biogeochemistry, community ecology, evolution, and sustainable agriculture. Students are admitted through MSU’s Department of Integrative Biology and receive guaranteed graduate support through a combination of research and teaching assistantships. Research assistantship support is available through lab grants, and prospective students are encouraged to contact me early if they are interested in developing an NSF Graduate Research Fellowship or other fellowship proposal. The Evans Lab is located at Kellogg Biological Station, 1 hour 15 minutes from East Lansing, near Kalamazoo Michigan. The station is a community of over 100 staff, researchers, students, faculty, and postdocs. Our lab strives to build a collaborative, positive atmosphere that supports healthy work habits, intellectual curiosity, inclusion, scientific integrity and rigor, and professional development aligned with the students’ goals. Previous students have continued in academic and non-academic fields. Student applicants should be self-motivated and often have previous research experience. See the Evans Lab website. Interested prospective students should contact Sarah (evanssa6@msu.edu) describing their background and interest, and attaching a resume or CV. Posted: 8/26/26.

Monash University: The Community Ecology and Evolution lab at Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, is recruiting a PhD candidate to study how organismal physiology underpins community stability, using marine phytoplankton as a model system. This is an exciting opportunity as the project is part of an international doctoral network (ReDiLEEP) and the candidate will collaborate with other PhD students and research groups in Europe to understand how species in an ecosystem respond to changes and the importance of variation in their responses for ecosystem stability. Note that the candidate will need to apply for and secure a Monash PhD scholarship to undertake this project. Please read the full ad for how to apply (or visit our website). If you have questions, please contact Giulia giulia.ghedini at monash.edu. Application deadline 30 October 2026. Posted: 8/26/26.

North Carolina State University: A PhD track position is available within the department of Marine, Earth, and Atmospheric Sciences at NC State University (Raleigh, NC, USA) starting January 2027 within the Paerl Lab. The position is associated with a larger NOAA ECOHAB project investigating factors influencing brown tide (Aureoumbra lagunensis) formation and persistence in coastal waters, in collaboration with the Wetz (Texas A&M University; Lead institution) and Osburn (NC State, co-lead) labs. Three years of research assistantship support are available for this position. The Paerl lab is located on the NC State main campus in Raleigh, NC (USA), which is within the growing Research Triangle of North Carolina. At the time of enrollment, highly qualified applicants will have an undergraduate or master's degree in biology, ecology, oceanography, microbiology, (bio)chemistry, or a related field. Highly competitive candidates will possess: knowledge of marine ecosystems and harmful algal blooms (HABs), analytical chemistry experience with solid phase extraction (SPE) techniques, wet-lab skills including algal cultivation and micropipette skills, research career ambition, data organization/analyses skills, excellent written and spoken communication skills, and the ability to work within a team framework. Specific expectations of the position include leading laboratory experiments with algal cultures, processing seawater samples for vitamin measurements, timely data analysis, coordination with Wetz and Osburn labs in regard to field sampling and data sharing, undergraduate mentoring, and contributing to collective Paerl Lab efforts such as lab activities, collaborative sampling, and outreach efforts. The PhD candidate is expected to pursue a Marine Science degree through the Department of Marine, Earth, and Atmospheric Sciences (MEAS), which offers interdisciplinary training and conducts research in ecology, hydrology, oceanography, geology, and atmospheric science. Numerous opportunities will be available to collaborate and develop one’s skillset regarding in-silico, in-situ, and in-vivo tools via the PhD program. Broadly, the Paerl lab encourages a healthy work/life balance for all its members and maintains a welcoming environment for people of all backgrounds. To Apply: Please send the following items as a single PDF to Dr. Ryan Paerl (rpaerl@ncsu.edu) by Oct. 1, 2026: 1. Contact information for two professional references 2. CV plus undergraduate/graduate transcript 3. Writing sample (e.g. published journal article, technical report, etc.) 4. Response to the following prompt (no more than 2 pgs., single spaced): Briefly highlight a problem and testable hypothesis related to HABs as well as how it could be experimentally tested. Best candidates will be encouraged to apply for spring admission to MEAS. Spring admission deadlines for international applicants has passed. Posted: 8/21/26.

Northern Arizona University: PhD positions available in “ecological synthesis” The Ecological Synthesis Lab, directed by Dr. Kiona Ogle, at NAU has openings for one or more PhD positions in the areas of: (1) legacy effects of extreme climate events on carbon cycle processes and (2) environmental controls on species- and community-level vegetation dynamics. Both research areas focus on ecological systems in the arid and semi-arid western US. Students interested in area (1) would have the opportunity to work with tree-ring data from various sampling networks and/or carbon and water flux data from eddy covariance tower networks. Projects falling under this theme may explore how trees and/or ecosystems are impacted by prolonged drought, flash droughts, pluvial events, or heatwaves, with the goal of understanding the legacy effects of such events. Students interested in area (2) would work with long-term inventory and monitoring data from the National Park Service (NPS) and USGS, with a focus on identifying factors governing changes in species occurrence and abundance and potentially scaling up to evaluate drivers of community change. This project focuses on grassland and shrubland ecosystems in the western US. Interested applicants must have solid quantitative abilities, including basic training in mathematics (e.g., at least 2 semesters of calculus) and statistics (e.g., at least one introductory statistics course), and possess good programming skills (e.g., R, Python, etc.). Prospectives should also possess good background knowledge in relevant fields of ecology/biology and have developed good written and oral communication skills. As part of their PhD program, students should be keenly interested in strengthening these quantitative skills and becoming proficient in Bayesian statistical methods, machine learning, and computing. Interested students should contact Dr. Ogle by email (Kiona.Ogle@nau.edu). Posted: 10/23/26.

Ohio State University: The Rober Lab in the School of Environment and Natural Resources has an opening for a MS Graduate Research Assistantship to study algal ecology in freshwater ecosystems. The successful applicant should have a background in algal ecology and/or algal taxonomy and a willingness to work in both field and laboratory settings. The qualified candidate will have the opportunity to work as part of a collaborative team examining algal community responses to environmental change and the consequences of community alterations for ecosystem function. A graduate stipend at OSU includes academic year and summer support, tuition, and health benefits. If you are interested in this position please send your CV and a short statement summarizing your qualifications and research interests to Dr. Allison Rober at rober.6@osu.edu. Application requirements. Applications are due November 30, 2026. Start date is flexible January (Spring), May (summer), or August (Fall) 2027. Posted: 10/23/26.

Ohio State University: Hood Aquatic Ecology Laboratory, Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology. The Hood Lab is recruiting a Ph.D. student to conduct research on a U.S. Department of Agriculture funded project that focuses on phosphorus cycling in ditches and streams in agriculture-dominated landscapes. The graduate student would join an interdisciplinary team focused on understanding how tile drainage impacts water, sediment, and nutrient dynamics. The student’s research would focus on determining how tile drains influence in-channel phosphorus storage and transformations. The project involves fieldwork in Ohio and Michigan as well as the use of sensors and game cameras to characterize dissolved oxygen, temperature, stream-channel form, and hydrologic characteristics. The ideal candidate would have a Masters degree and be highly motivated and honest, with strong quantitative skills, an interest in applied aquatic ecology, and a background in ecology, biogeochemistry, soils, geomorphology, and/or hydrology. I seek to maintain a productive, diverse, and team-orientated lab group. The student would be supported by teaching and research assistantships. In EEOB, graduate assistantship includes a stipend of at least $2,750 per month, health benefits, and a tuition/fee waiver. If interested, please email Jim Hood (hood.211@osu.edu) a single PDF containing (1) a statement of interest, (2) a CV, and (3) contact information for three references. I will begin reviewing candidate applications immediately and ultimately invite selected applicants to apply to the department. The department's application deadline is 15 Nov 2026. Application procedures and requirements. Posted: 9/18/26.

Oklahoma State University: The Reichert Lab in the Department of Biology is recruiting 1-2 graduate students (MS or PhD) for Fall 2027. Our lab does integrative research in animal communication and cognition. Our main study system is acoustic communication in gray treefrogs, but we also work on other taxa (other frog species, insects) and questions (social behavior, learning, aggression, visual communication). We are searching for students with strong interests in animal behavior to develop projects related to our main areas of interest. Students should be motivated to develop independent research projects, develop skills in experimental design, programming, data analysis and writing, and to contribute to our positive and supportive lab atmosphere. Students will be primarily supported by teaching assistantships, with the possibility for RA and summer funding depending on overall funding support for the lab. The Department of Biology has a strong group of faculty and students working on organismal biology, and the university is in a biodiverse state with a very reasonable cost of living. We are an inclusive and supportive lab environment and encourage applications from everyone interested. To apply, please send an email to michael.reichert@okstate.edu and attach a document containing a statement of interest (describing your background and motivation for the position) and your current CV by October 31, 2026. Candidates will be evaluated on a rolling basis, and competitive candidates will be contacted at the latest by Mid-November for an interview. Finalists will be invited to submit a full application to the graduate program (application due date January 15 2027). More information. Posted: 9/18/26.

Pennsylvania State University: PhD Position in Root Ecology. The Fleishman Root Agroecology Lab in the Department of Plant Science at Penn State University is recruiting a PhD student to begin in Fall 2027 (research start possible as early as Spring 2027). Our lab focuses on understanding the role of perennial root systems in supporting plant health and enhancing soil quality. The initial PhD projects will focus on woody root ecology in vineyards and orchards. There is ample flexibility for students to tailor specific measurements and expand into related agricultural or forest systems based on their research interests and aptitudes. A background in plant science, sustainable agriculture, soils, or ecology is preferred but not required. How to apply: Send a CV, a short description of research interests and experience, and unofficial transcripts to Dr. Suzanne Fleishman at smfleishman@psu.edu with the subject line "PhD Position in Root Ecology". View the full details at the Fleishman Root Agroecology Lab Open Positions Page. Posted: 10/12/26.

Purdue University: We are seeking a motivated PhD student to examine how the herbaceous layer responds to silviculture and prescribed fire as part of the Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment, a long-term ecological study that examines how management affects multiple forest components. The PhD students will determine how plant diversity and composition, including both native and non-native species, have responded to management treatments. Position is funded for four years beginning in January 2027 and includes a graduate stipend, tuition waiver, and access to employer assisted health insurance. Applicants should have a GPA of 3.2 or higher. GRE scores are not required but may be submitted. Desired qualifications: an MS degree in forestry, botany, ecology, plant science, biology or a related field; experience conducting field research; interest in forest ecology, fire management, and invasion biology. To apply: Prospective applicants should send, via e-mail attachment, a brief letter of interest, CV (including GPA and contact information for three references), and unofficial transcripts to both Mike Saunders (msaunder@purdue.edu) and Mike Jenkins (jenkinma@purdue.edu). We will begin reviewing materials on July 27, 2026, and will continue until an applicant is selected. Posted: 7/17/26.

Rutgers University: The Winfree Lab in the Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Natural Resources at Rutgers University is seeking a PhD student to begin in September 2027. This is an NSF-funded graduate student position to join us in conducting research on how heat waves affect bee pollinators. The graduate student will collaborate with grant PIs (Rutgers, University of California Davis, University of Minnesota) to collect data on bee and plant populations in California's Sierra Nevada, develop AI-assisted remote cameras for purposes of bee monitoring, and complete data analysis and writing of papers. Previous experience with bees, insects, big data, and field monitoring technology is welcomed but not required; see our Join page for further info on shared expectations in our lab group. Interested individuals should email rachael.winfree@rutgers.edu, using subject line 'NSF PhD position' and attaching one pdf file with file name = your name, that contains (1) a brief description of your background and interests; please write this yourself without the use of AI, (2) a CV, (3) undergraduate transcript, and (4) GRE or SAT scores, if you have them. Informal versions of transcripts and test scores are fine. I will respond to applications weekly, and will encourage competitive applicants to apply to the December 1, 2026 deadline for the Rutgers Ecology & Evolution graduate program. Posted: 10/23/26.

Rutgers University: The Sauer Lab in the Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Natural Resources at Rutgers University - New Brunswick is recruiting a PhD student to start Fall 2027. We are looking for applicants who are interested in projects exploring the disease ecology of cavity nesting wild birds especially as they relate to climate change and urban ecology. Previous experience handling and banding birds is preferred though not required. Interested applicants can contact me by filling out this Google form. I will be reviewing applications and contacting potential candidates with follow-up questions in mid-October (i.e., do not expect to hear back from me until then). Formal Rutgers E&E Program applications for Fall 2027 are due by December 1st 2026. Posted: 8/28/26.

Rutgers University: The Global Change Macroecology lab in the Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Natural Resources at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ is recruiting a 2-yr postdoc to start in October-November 2026 (January 2027 latest) and a PhD student to start Fall 2027. Postdoc - The postdoc will work with big data (e.g. GBIF, eBird, Movebank), remote sensing products, GIS tools and quantitative/spatial approaches including machine learning to explore how and why wildlife species are affected by climate change at continental scales. There is flexibility in project ideas, but several possible themes include range shift projections, regional variation in environmental drivers of distributions within species, estimating trends and drivers of environmental niche loss, or exploring animal movement following disturbance. Work with birds is preferred for certain projects but other terrestrial taxa can certainly be considered. Applicant must be a strong writer and quantitatively skilled with experience in spatial modelling, using GIS tools and using statistical software (ideally R). The applicant must have a PhD in one of several fields including but not limited to ecology, biology, environmental science, geography, or computer science. Preference will be given to applicants who can work in-person. Please send a cover letter and CV to jeremy.m.cohen@rutgers.edu by September 1st, 2026 to ensure full consideration. PhD student - I am looking for applicants who are interested in running a field-based and quantitative project that will explore avian community changes following disturbance, as moderated by traits and habitat structure, both across central NJ and the eastern US. This will involve both bioacoustics/AI and point-count surveys (yes, you get to go birding for your PhD!). Core requirements are strong writing and quantitative skills and visual/audio bird identification skills in the eastern US, with GIS skills being a plus. There is also significant potential for involvement in a public outreach program leading bird walks that integrate research communication. Interested applicants can contact me by filling out this form by September 25th, 2026. I will be reviewing applications and contacting potential candidates with follow-up questions in early October (i.e., do not expect to hear back from me until then). Formal Rutgers E&E Program applications for Fall 2027 are due by December 1st, 2026. Posted: 8/7/26.

Southern Illinois University Carbondale: The Water Quality research lab at SIU announces the availability of a Ph.D. research assistantship beginning January 16, 2027 or May 16, 2027. The assistantship includes an annual stipend of $23k and a tuition Waiver. The successful candidate will join a team of researchers and graduate students led by Karl Williard and Jon Schoonover. The team is investigating water and soil quality responses to various management practices in agricultural watersheds, including cover crops, crop rotation, and tillage. The assistantship is funded through a grant from the Illinois Nutrient Research and Education Council. Research will include significant field and laboratory components. The graduate student will enroll in an interdisciplinary Ph.D. program in Agricultural Sciences that includes flexible coursework options dependent on the student’s interests. Dr. Williard and Dr. Schoonover are Professors of Watershed Management and Hydrology, respectively in the Forestry program. Qualified applicants should possess a bachelor’s and M.S. degree in soil science, agronomy, forestry, hydrology, environmental science, chemistry, biology, or related disciplines. Please email a letter of interest, resume, and GRE scores (if available) to Karl Williard, williard@siu.edu by October 1, 2026 for full consideration. Contact Dr. Williard with any questions at 618-453-7478. Posted: 9/18/26.

Stockholm University: Phd-Position in Wetland Ecology. If you are interested in wetland ecology and wetland restoration, this is a good opportunity to work in an interdisciplinary group involving ecologists, hydrologists and biogeochemists. The PhD-project will focus on arthropod ecology, but link their abundances to environmental factors such as water table fluctuations and soil moisture. A major part of the project will be to evaluate large scale restoration projects in a Before-After-Control-Impact design, but other parts will examine specific mechanisms such as soil properties. The work will involve extensive field work, species identifications and GIS-work. For further information (and for application details) see https://su.varbi.com/en/what:job/jobID:969795/. For questions: peter.hamback@su.se. Last application date 31.Oct.2026. Posted: 10/23/26.

Stockholm University: I (Mag. Dr. Birgit Wild) am currently recruiting a PhD student to work on methane oxidation in the Arctic Ocean. The detailed plan will depend on the interests and background of the student, and methods could include experiments, biomarkers, isotopes, modelling … possibly field work. See the job description for details and to apply. Last application date 31.Jul.2026. Posted: 7/10/26.

Tarleton State University: PhD Assistantship: Harvest Ecology, Plant Demography, and Ethnobotany (Fall 2027). The Coe Lab (Department of Biological Sciences, Tarleton State University, Stephenville, TX) seeks a PhD student to begin Fall 2027 in the new Integrative Biosciences PhD program. We study how people and plants shape one another: which plants people use and why, how harvest changes plant life history and persistence, and how communities and science can keep harvested populations healthy. Dissertation questions can draw on three programs: a global phylogenetic database of medicinal plant selection (with the Harvard University Herbaria); a global synthesis of non-timber forest product responses to harvest using MPMs, IPMs, and PVA; and the Pacha Nishi Project, a community-led restoration and demography program on Shipibo-Konibo land in the Peruvian Amazon. Dissertations can be computational, field-based, or both. Support: five-year, 12-month graduate assistantship at College of Graduate Studies rates, contingent on progress and funding approval; health, dental, and vision coverage. A full tuition waiver is possible, subject to funding availability, but not guaranteed. Qualifications: master's degree preferred. Desired background in population ecology, matrix and integral projection models and PVA, botany, ecological statistics, R, conservation biology, ethnobiology, and independent research. Spanish and international fieldwork experience are assets. First-generation, rural, and Indigenous students are especially encouraged to apply. To apply, email MCOE@tarleton.edu (subject "Coe Lab PhD Position – Fall 2027") a one-page research statement, CV, unofficial transcripts, and contacts for 2–3 references. Review begins December 1, 2026. More at drcoelab.com. Posted: 10/23/26.

Texas A&M - Corpus Christi: The Greiner Lab is recruiting 1 Masters student and 1 PhD student (both fully funded) to start in Fall 2027 to investigate questions related to informing management practices for marine ecosystems in the Gulf (e.g. oyster reefs, coral reefs, salt marshes). Our lab focuses on developing quantitative (mathematical, machine learning) models in combination with observational field work to improve our understanding of the dynamics of marine and coastal ecosystems to inform large scale management design and policy. We value applications from prospective lab members who are excited to work at the interface of applied marine/coastal ecology, social ecological systems and mathematical modelling. Students with prior experience in mathematical modelling, machine learning, economics or social science survey methodology is strongly preferred To inquire about positions, please email Ariel Greiner (greinerariel@gmail.com). This email should include: (1) your broad research interests (highlighting your research experience, future research interests, expertise), (2) an idea for a project that you would be excited to work on in the Greiner lab and (3) an updated CV containing a summary of your academic and research experiences. Posted; 8/26/26.

Texas State University: The Shared Planet Group led by Dr. Alex Jensen and based at Texas State in San Marcos, TX is recruiting a PhD student to start August 2027. This PhD student’s research will focus on mammal responses to resource pulses, with field work likely primarily occurring somewhat locally. There is funding available for 4.5 years. The core of this PhD project will consist of collecting observational and experimental data on mammal responses to resource pulses in the field. Examples of locally important resource pulses include persimmons, prickly pear, and acorns. Several approaches will likely be used to study these interactions, including camera traps, selective exclusion, and scat surveys. The PhD student will also be expected to lead a paper (one of their chapters) that complements their field project but utilizes existing large-scale data or synthesizes existing research. The PhD student will be expected to mentor undergraduate students, be a collaborative member of our research group, and participate in Biology Department activities. There are funds to attend one national conference and one regional conference per year. Alex encourages people from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences to apply but can only consider international applicants that are already living in the US. The PhD student will not have to pay tuition but will be expected to teach (TA) during 4 semesters. Salary: $37k/year + benefits. Start: August 2027. Requirements: MS degree. To apply: Fill out this Google form by September 30. Contact: Dr. Alex Jensen | ajensen@txstate.edu. Posted: 9/18/26.

Texas Tech University: The Rubin Lab seeks a highly motivated PhD student to begin Fall 2027. Research in the lab focuses on the evolution of elaborate traits in animals, especially through the lens of predator-prey interactions. We use a combination of behavioral experiments, physiological assays, phylogenetics, and macroevolutionary analyses to answer questions at mechanistic and evolutionary scales. The primary project of the graduate student will focus on structural coloration in butterflies via color quantification, visual modeling, behavioral experiments, and bioinformatics. While applicants are not required to have previous experience with these techniques, an understanding of evolutionary principles and behavioral ecology is preferred. This work will involve outdoor fieldwork, indoor laboratory/computer work, and natural history museum collections sampling. This position is fully funded through a TA-ship with supplementary summer RA and includes a tuition waiver and health care benefits. Required qualifications: 1) Previous experience with scientific research, as evidenced by a peer-reviewed publication(s) or a draft of a scientific manuscript, 2) Quantitative skills and experience conducting statistical analyses in R and/or Python, 3) Strong motivation to work both independently and collaboratively. Preferred qualifications: 1) MS degree, 2) multiple peer-reviewed publications, 3) Experience writing and acquiring funding for research, 4) Experience mist netting birds, 5) Experience and interest in mentoring undergraduate or postbaccalaureate students To apply: Applications are due to TTU in early December. Prior to submitting your official application, please contact Dr. Juliette Rubin by November 2: Juliette.Rubin@ttu.edu Include in your email the following: 1) Curriculum vitae, 2) Cover letter describing your interest in the lab/research, your previous research experience, and your qualifications that would make you a good candidate for this position, 3) Names and contact information for 3 references (these will not be contacted until after the zoom interview stage). Posted: 10/23/26.

University of Alberta: We are recruiting an MSc student to build on recent work quantifying the links between fire regime, canopy type, and ecosystem nitrogen balance in boreal forests. This next phase of the research will focus on the role understory plants play in nitrogen accumulation in soils of aspen forests following wildfire. Justine Karst (University of Alberta) and I (Stefan Hupperts, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences) are recruiting a student to start summer/fall 2027 at the University of Alberta. The co-supervised candidate will be given freedom to develop their ideas on the topic. A two-year stipend ($25k per year) will be provided and there are opportunities for TAing in the Department of Renewable Resources, University of Alberta. Please send your CV and a one-page cover letter explaining your interest in the position to Justine Karst karst@ualberta.ca by October 31, 2026. Feel free to inquire about the position beforehand to see if it’s right for you. Information on the departmental MSc program. Please check your eligibility before you apply. Posted: 9/18/26.

University of Brasilia: We are recruiting two PhD students to join the PlantForAdapt project, an international research collaboration between Brazil and France addressing key research priorities on native-species planted forests to support resilient Amazonian landscapes in the face of global change. Both PhD candidates will be enrolled at the University of Brasília and will conduct research across three study sites in the Brazilian Amazon and French Guiana. Full project description and application instructions are available here: - Tree performance and resilience in Amazonian native species plantations under climate change - Natural regeneration in native species plantations in Amazonia. Application deadline: 28 July 2026. Posted: 7/10/26.

University of California, Davis: The Center for Watershed Sciences (CWS) invites applications for multiple funded M.S. positions. These graduate student researchers will collaborate with CWS researchers and with biologists and engineers at the US Bureau of Reclamation (USBR) to design and conduct a research project that addresses high-priority knowledge gaps pertinent to water operations, aquatic ecosystem management, and/or fish conservation in Central California. Research topics for an engineering student may include hydrologic modeling, parameter uncertainty, forecasting, and system optimization. Research topics for an ecology student may include fish movement and population ecology, trophic/foodweb ecology, and restoration ecology. This is a two-year position beginning Fall 2027. To learn more about this opportunity, please visit Center for Watershed Sciences Jobs. Deadline: October 8, 2026. Posted: 9/18/26.

University of California, Davis: I am recruiting a Ph.D. student to join the Karp Lab in the Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Conservation Biology at the University of California, Davis. Core research areas in our lab group include: (1) applying ecological theory towards understanding and managing biodiversity in working landscapes, especially in the face of climate change and other stressors; (2) quantifying the effects of alternative agricultural practices on crop pests, predators, and their interactions, and (3) identifying tradeoffs among biodiversity and ecosystem services to inform development of multi-functional landscapes. While much of our work focuses on birds in agroecosystems, we also work with other taxa and in other systems. Applicants must have graduated with a bachelor’s degree in ecology or related field by June 2027. The ideal applicant would be self-motivated, driven, and a good community member, with prior experience conducting field work, analyzing data, and leading their own research project. If interested in applying, please fill out this Google Form in lieu of an email inquiry. I will review submissions on a rolling basis until early November, reaching out to a subset of candidates to conduct follow-up interviews over Zoom. Following this, successful applicants will be encouraged to apply to the Graduate Group of Ecology (GGE) by the December 1 deadline. Posted: 8/26/26.

University of California Riverside: The Thompson Lab in the Department of Entomology is recruiting Ph.D. students interested in the chemical ecology of plant-insect interactions. Potential research topics include, but are not limited to, plant defense strategies, insect behavior, chemical communication, community ecology, multitrophic interactions, soil microbiota, and aboveground-belowground ecology. Interested students should contact Dr. Morgan Thompson to discuss research interests before applying to the Department of Entomology Graduate Program. To apply: Submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, transcripts, and a statement of your research interests to Dr. Morgan Thompson at morgan.thompson@ucr.edu. Review of applications will commence on September 30, 2026, and proceed until the application deadlines for positions beginning in summer or fall of 2027. For full consideration, applicants should submit their complete applications prior to the above date. Please contact Dr. Morgan Thompson and visit the laboratory website for more information. Posted: 9/18/26.

University of Canterbury: Four fully funded PhD opportunities in freshwater ecology! Working in New Zealand’s iconic braided rivers! We’re excited to be advertising four interconnected UC Connect PhD Scholarships, a collaborative research programme between the University of Canterbury and the Department of Conservation (DOC). The four projects offer opportunities to tackle fundamental ecological questions while producing research with direct relevance to freshwater conservation and management in Aotearoa New Zealand. Projects will explore: 1. Invasive aquatic plants – understanding the drivers and impacts of plant invasions in high-country spring ecosystems and opportunities for restoration. 2. Threatened freshwater fish – investigating how upland longjaw galaxias persist in dynamic braided river environments. 3. Spring ecosystems – understanding how stable spring habitats contribute to the biodiversity, functioning and resilience of braided rivers. 4. Braided river birds – investigating how flow regimes, aquatic food resources, predators and habitat interact to shape threatened bird populations and inform conservation management and monitoring. Successful candidates will join the Freshwater Ecology Research Group (FERG) at the University of Canterbury and work alongside a cohort of PhD students, UC researchers and DOC scientists. The research contributes to DOC’s Nga Awa River Restoration Programme and Critical Ecosystem Pressures research, with a strong focus on the Upper Rakitata catchment and will be co-supervised by Professor Angus McIntosh and Dr Helen Warburton. Each project has is three years fully funded: NZ$32,650 per year tax-free stipend + full university fees + research expenses. Applications close 6 September 2026 and applicants can apply for more than one of the four projects. More information and application details: https://tinyurl.com/5ahsd4ft (follow links to the three other projects from here). Posted: 8/26/26.

University of Colorado Boulder: PhD Assistantships: Wildfire Social-Ecological Systems and Creative Technology. Two PhD assistantships are available for students interested in bringing together social-ecological systems science and creative technology to investigate wildfire, ecological disturbance, landscape change, and recovery. Students will combine environmental data science with interactive and immersive technologies to generate new scientific insights and develop tools for environmental research and decision-making. Applicants may come from a range of disciplinary backgrounds; curiosity about and commitment to working across these areas matter more than prior expertise in all of them. Students will be advised by Dr. Megan Cattau and will be active members of the WILDD Systems Lab (Ways of Interpreting Landscape Disturbance + Dynamics) within the ATLAS Institute at the University of Colorado Boulder. Depending on their backgrounds and research interests, the students may pursue a PhD in Creative Technology and Design at ATLAS or in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. Initial interest form deadline: November 1, 2026. Selected finalists will be invited to apply formally to the appropriate CU Boulder PhD program by December 1, 2026. Complete the initial interest form | View the full position announcement. Posted: 10/23/26.

University of Connecticut: We are seeking a motivated PhD student interested in freshwater ecosystem ecology and biogeochemistry to join the Helton and Lawrence lab groups at the University of Connecticut beginning in January or June 2027. The student would be part of a broader interdisciplinary team investigating how beaver-created ecosystems in the Northeastern United States affect freshwater carbon cycling. The successful candidate would join the team as a Graduate Assistant (~$38k/year) and conduct field work to quantify greenhouse gas dynamics, ecosystem metabolism, and carbon stocks in ponds, wetlands, and streams. The student would also have the opportunity to develop approaches to model beaver-created ecosystem carbon dynamics at the watershed-scale. Required qualifications include an undergraduate degree in a related field and at least one year of post-baccalaureate research experience; fieldwork experience; interest and experience in biogeochemistry; and, excellent oral and written communication skills. Two or more years of post-baccalaureate research experience or an MS degree in a related field is strongly preferred. We are committed to creating an inclusive and equitable working environment and encourage students from all backgrounds to apply. Interested? Please email Ashley Helton (Ashley.Helton@uconn.edu) by September 1, 2026 with the subject line “PhD Application Beaver Project”: 1) a statement of your research interests, and 2) a CV that includes relevant professional experience and contact information for three references. Posted: 7/10/26.

University of Florida: Seeking 1-2 graduate students in physiological ecology. The Gillooly Lab in the Department of Biology at the University of Florida has openings for 1-2 graduate students beginning in Fall 2027. Research in the lab is diverse but generally falls under the categories of physiological ecology or macroecology. Lab members use a variety of approaches, including mathematical modeling, experimentation and field studies. Above all else, we seek students that are creative, curious, and collaborative. Prospective students should contact Dr. Gillooly by email (gillooly “at” ufl.edu) to discuss possibilities. The deadline for application is December 1, 2026. More information regarding the program and the application is found here: https://biology.ufl.edu/graduate-programs/ , https://biology.ufl.edu/graduate-programs/application/. Posted: 10/25/26.

University of Georgia: A two-year graduate research assistantship is available to study the ecophysiology of rocket-stage longleaf pine saplings in southwestern Georgia. Co-advised by Dr. Daniel M. Johnson of UGA and Dr. Steven T. Brantley of The Jones Center at Ichauway (Newton, GA), the student will determine how rapid height growth and high leaf area impact carbon and water relations in longleaf pine rocket stage saplings, with a particular focus on sapling vulnerability to drought stress and fire. The project offers the opportunity to gain experience in field and lab data collection, prescribed fire application, statistical analysis, and scientific communications with diverse stakeholders. Applicants must have a B.S., B.A. or equivalent from an accredited college or university by the position start date. Applicants from a range of disciplinary backgrounds will be considered, including biology, ecology, environmental sciences, and plant sciences. Lab or field experience in plant physiology, leaf gas exchange, plant allometry, and/or plant water relations is desirable. Undergraduate research experience is a plus. The student will be enrolled in the Warnell School of Forest Resources at the University of Georgia. Field work will occur at The Jones Center at Ichauway, a 28,500-acre private research and education center located between Albany and Bainbridge, Georgia. Full-time residence at The Jones Center for 3-12 months is expected to complete field work. Housing will be provided at no cost. The Jones Center's research, education, and conservation programs focus on ecology and natural resource management. The site includes 16,000 acres of longleaf pine forests, ~100 wetlands, and 26 miles of stream and river ecosystems. A competitive stipend and tuition waiver will be provided over the two-year duration of the project. Expected start date is fall 2027. Interested students should contact Steven Brantley (steven.brantley@jonesctr.org) and Dan Johnson (danjohnson@uga.edu) with a 1-2 page CV, college transcripts (unofficial are fine for now), a brief statement of research experience and interests, and contact information for 3 references. Applications received by November 30 will receive full consideration. Posted: 10/30/26.

University of Georgia: Dr. Wu Sun's lab at the Odum School of Ecology is recruiting two PhD students to start in Fall 2027. Both positions are funded through a combination of research and teaching assistantships. One position will focus on responses of plant and ecosystem function to climate trends and extremes, with an emphasis on ecophysiological mechanisms and field/lab measurements. The second position will focus on biosphere–atmosphere interactions, particularly carbon cycling in climatically vulnerable biomes (e.g., the Arctic, tropical forests, and drylands), with the goal of improving how carbon cycle and related processes are represented in Earth system models. We welcome applicants with strong interests in ecosystem ecology, plant ecophysiology, biogeochemistry, climate science, or related fields. We value intellectual curiosity, collegiality, motivation, and potential for growth. Strong quantitative and communication skills are expected. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., ecology, biology, chemistry, earth/environmental/atmospheric science, computer science, or data science) by Fall 2027. Prior research experience (e.g., lab/field work, data analysis, numerical modeling, scientific writing) or a master's degree is preferred. To apply, please fill out this Google Form to express your interest by November 15, 2026. Competitive applicants will be invited to apply to the Odum School of Ecology (OSE) by December 1, 2026. Selected applicants may be invited to an on-campus recruitment event in Athens, Georgia, USA, in late January 2027. Successful candidates are expected to begin in Fall (early August) 2027; deferment is not available. If you have additional questions, please contact Dr. Wu Sun (wusun@uga.edu). Please include "OSE PhD position" in the subject line. Posted: 9/18/26.

University of Georgia: The Krichels Biogeochemistry lab at the UGA's Odum School of Ecology is recruiting two graduate students to start in Fall 2027. Students will develop independent projects examining how disturbances affect nitrogen and/or carbon cycling in terrestrial ecosystems. PhD applicants are preferred; master's applicants will also be considered. Ideal applicants will have strong interests in ecosystem ecology, environmental science, soil science, or biogeochemistry. Prior experience with lab work, field work, data analysis, and scientific writing is preferred. Applicants should have demonstrable quantitative skills (previous job experience and/or master’s degree preferred). To apply, email Alex Krichels (alexander.krichels@uga.edu) by November 1st, 2026 with 1) a cover letter summarizing your interest in the position, 2) contact information for two professional references, 3) your resume or CV, and 4) a writing sample. Please include “PhD position” in the subject line of your email. Competitive applicants will then be asked to apply to the Odum School of Ecology (OSE) by December 1st. Please do not apply directly to OSE without invitation; your application will not be considered. Posted: 9/18/26.

University of Hamburg: Drought Vulnerability of Mycorrhiza in the Forest Floor (PhD). The 'Functional Forest Ecology' lab is recruiting a PhD student (fully funded for 4 years) to start in October 2026 or soon thereafter and join the DFG research unit 'Forest Floor: Functioning, Dynamics, and Vulnerability in a Changing World'. The student will collaborate closely with the Molecular Ecology lab at Imperial College London and Kew Gardens (UK). They will investigate the vulnerability of mycorrhizal functions in beech forests in SW Germany. To this end, the student will study the mycorrhizal community structure, soil exploration, and root-tip-specific enzyme activities, and collaborate in drought mesocosm and root exudation experiments. They will publish scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals and present the results at national and international conferences. A very good university degree in a relevant field and strong skills in mycorrhizal ecology, root ecology and/or plant physiology are required. Experience in bioinformatics, biogeochemical analyses, and/or drought experiments is beneficial. The ideal candidate is team-oriented, interested in interdisciplinary research, proactive, and willing to conduct fieldwork in Baden-Württemberg forests and undertake stays at Imperial College London and Kew Gardens, UK. Excellent written and oral German and/or English language skills are required. For further information, please visit the reference number 201 or contact Prof. Ina Meier (ina.meier@uni-hamburg.de). USE ONLY THE ONLINE APPLICATION FORM to submit your application (incl. cover letter, CV, copies of degree certificate(s), and a summary of the M.Sc. thesis) by August 15, 2026. Posted: 8/7/26.

University of Helsinki: Doctoral Researcher (PhD student) in Butterfly Ecology and Climate Change across Europe. This is an integrative, cross-scale PhD addressing a central question in global change ecology: when butterflies change under climate warming, do those changes help populations persist, or do they reveal growing vulnerability? The researcher will connect changes in individual traits, including body size and wing pigmentation, with population persistence, community turnover and regional vulnerability across Europe. The project combines natural history collections, long-term butterfly-monitoring data, image analysis, climate data, field ecology and quantitative modelling. The position is fully funded from January 2027 until 31 August 2030. Applications close on 30 September 2026. Full details and application instructions: https://jobs.helsinki.fi/job-invite/5129/. Posted: 8/21/26.

University of Maine: Graduate Research Assistantship in Tree Ecophysiology, Starting Fall 2027. The School of Forest Resources is seeking a highly motivated PhD student to study tree ecophysiology in Maine. The position will be advised by Dr. Jay Wason, Associate Professor of Forest Ecosystem Physiology. This fully funded research assistantship (RA) is part of larger multidisciplinary efforts in the Wason Lab assessing management and conservation of the Acadian Forest. The research will focus on leveraging our extensive network of automated point dendrometers on trees to improve our understanding of: ? The environmental and physiological drivers of daily tree growth and stem shrinkage ? How environmental stressors and canopy position interact to control daily tree growth ? How models of daily tree growth scale to annual tree growth and forest-level productivity Requirements: Masters degree in a closely related field and author of at least one peer-reviewed publication (or an advanced draft for review). Applicants should be able to demonstrate experience with: advanced statistical modeling, field and/or lab methods related to forest-tree biology, and leading independent research. Assistantship: This position is a 20 hr/week assistantship subject to the requirements and benefits outlined in the current Graduate Student Workers collective bargaining agreement. These include a 12-month stipend of $31k for PhD students, partial coverage of health and dental insurance, and a tuition waiver. Submit your application here. Questions can be addressed to jay.wason@maine.edu. Posted: 11/6/26.

University of Maryland: I am looking for a (fully funded) PhD student interested in (a) theory of network, food web, or microbiome dynamics or (b) or population dynamics of coastal marine species. Students with strong interests in fundamental ecology/biology (required) and course or research experience in math and modelling (not required) would be great fits. More details here. I take students through our Ecology and Evolution (BEES) and Applied Math (AMSC) programs. Their application deadlines are in December, but please reach out to me so we can chat beforehand - Vadim A. Karatayev (vadimk@umd.edu). Posted: 9/25/26.

University of Michigan: The Zhu Lab in the School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS) is inviting inquiries from prospective PhD students interested in beginning doctoral study in Fall 2027. Our lab works at the intersection of global change biology, ecological modeling, and environmental data science. Our research centers on biodiversity and ecosystem change, with a unifying focus on plants and terrestrial ecosystems. We integrate ecological theory and modeling with experiments, field observations, remote sensing, and statistical and computational methods to understand and predict ecological change across scales. We welcome inquiries from students interested in developing research on how environmental change reshapes species distributions, community composition, biotic interactions, phenology, productivity, or carbon cycling. Students with relevant research experience and strong quantitative interests are especially encouraged to inquire. To express interest, please complete the Zhu Lab PhD Interest Form. Due to the high volume of prospective student inquiries, the interest form is the best way to share your background and research interests for consideration. Selected candidates may be invited to an online conversation to discuss their interests and potential fit with the lab. The interest form is for preliminary review and is separate from the official application to the SEAS PhD Program. All applicants must submit an official application through the Rackham Graduate School by the applicable deadline. Please consult the SEAS admissions website for current requirements and deadlines. The SEAS PhD Program provides five years of funding to admitted doctoral students through research assistantships, teaching assistantships, fellowships, or a combination. Posted: 9/25/26.

University of Michigan: Dr. Lauren E. Gillespie’s new lab is looking to recruit a PhD student to join in Fall 2027 for a fully-funded PhD position. Dr. Gillespie’s research group in U-M’s School for Environment and Sustainability develops AI-integrated approaches for monitoring ecosystems at scale in the Anthropocene. This highly interdisciplinary work cross-cuts AI, ecology, and remote sensing to uncover the effects of rapid environmental change on species and improve our ecological forecasting of the natural world. These research directions involve both computational and field-based methods, and current focal systems include Michigan, the Neotropics, and California. A global-scale focus or other regions of high biodiversity importance will also be considered. Please see the lab’s Interests and Projects for more details and potential research themes. Students with a strong interdisciplinary background across computer science, ecology, environmental science, data science, and remote sensing are especially encouraged to apply, along with students with deep expertise in any of these areas. While previous research experience is preferred, ideal candidates should show intellectual curiosity and a capability for independent growth. If you are interested in this opportunity, please fill out this google form to express your interest in joining the lab. Review of applications will begin in October. The official SEAS PhD application deadline is December 1st, 2026 for a start date in Fall of 2027. If you have any additional questions, feel free to reach out (gillespl@umich.edu). Posted: 9/18/26.

University of Nevada Las Vegas: Are you interested in studying dry ecosystems in the southwestern United States? My lab has collected datasets capturing unique locations, vegetation attributes, and meteorological events in deserts, woodlands, and forests in Arizona and Nevada. I am recruiting a student who would like to use these datasets and other techniques to design and carry out scientific studies focused on unique and novel aspects of the meteorological, temperature, and water dynamics of dryland ecosystems. Our lab explores the mechanisms of ecosystem change using techniques and data sources from field sampling and experiments, remote sensing and instrumentation, and modeling. The selected student will have the opportunity to learn and assist with these as part of their training, and work on new lab projects. Applicants are welcome to visit the lab website and email me (matthew.petrie@unlv.edu). Please note that UNLV does not allow faculty to “pre-evaluate” applicants before they apply to the graduate program. This means that I cannot provide feedback on applicant qualifications, likelihood of being accepted, etc. I can however discuss the opportunity, answer questions, and provide more detail about potential projects, benefits, and related items. The anticipated start date is August, 2027. This position will be housed within the School of Life Sciences. A successful applicant will have most of the following: – M.A. or M.S. degree in a STEM field – Peer reviewed publication(s) – Data analysis experience – GIS experience – Interest in ecological research – Writing skills. Posted: 11/6/26.

University of Nevada Las Vegas: I (Drew Peltier) am recruiting a PhD in tree thermal physiology to investigate the impacts of heat extremes on tree performance and survival. The PhD student would pursue independent research to identify the thermal limits to tree survival in natural forests and urban canopies. A major focus of the position is on studies using thermal cameras, field sampling of plant stress through metrics like water potential, and monitoring of tree mortality. The student would also have the opportunity to develop their own research questions and participate in the Southwest Climate Adaptation Center (SWCASC). Required qualifications: · BS or MS in a related field (env sci, ecology, statistics, forestry, biology, etc.) · Some knowledge of plant physiology. Preferred qualifications: · Comfortable working in R · Ecophys experience (e.g., water potential, gas exchange) · Experience with thermal imagery · Scientific writing experience. Applications due Dec. 1st through UNLV Graduate College: Candidates can email describing their interests in the position and relevant experience, including a CV. However: I am unable to assess candidate suitability before students have formally applied through the UNLV Graduate College. Posted: 9/18/26.

University of New Hampshire: The Wollheim lab, in the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, seeks a PhD level graduate student to conduct research on the coupled biogeochemical responses to land use and climate variability in suburban Boston watersheds. We are particularly interested in understanding how storm events, season, and land use interact with beaver created ecosystems to affect the flow of materials to downstream ecosystems and greenhouse gas emissions at watershed scales. The research emphasizes field measurements and/or in situ experiments, as well as modeling to synthesize results and to scale from individual ecosystems to entire river networks. This project is funded through the National Science Foundation’s Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) Program for the Plum Island Ecosystem project. The Plum Island Estuary receives drainage waters from suburban Boston via the Ipswich and Parker River watersheds. The student would be funded as a Research Assistant through the LTER project to maintain the long-term measurements in the watersheds in addition to pursuing their individual research, although the first semester will be supported by a Teaching Assistantship. Collaborating institutions on this interdisciplinary study include the Marine Biological Laboratory, University of South Carolina, Villanova University, Boston University, University of Georgia, Northeastern University, and Virginia Institute of Marine Science. Qualifications: The candidate must have an M.S. in ecosystem ecology, hydrology, biogeochemistry, or closely related field, along with demonstrated understanding of ecosystem processes. Strong quantitative skills are required so an additional background in data science or environmental modeling are also helpful. A B.S. with strong relevant experience will also be considered. All interested and qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, including those who are first generation college or underrepresented in STEM fields. Start Date: Position available starting Spring Semester 2027 (January, 2027). For more information regarding the position, please contact Dr. Wilfred Wollheim (wil.wollheim@unh.edu). To Apply: Send a cover letter explaining why you are interested in and a good fit for the position, statement of research interests (max 2 pages), resume or curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references (electronic versions of all materials are required) to wil.wollheim@unh.edu, Subject: UNH_PHD. Please attach all application materials as word documents or PDFs in the email, with the candidate name included in the file name. Review of applications will begin October 1, 2026. Posted: 8/26/26.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: The Quantitative Biogeography Lab in the Department of Biology is recruiting PhD/Master students to start in Fall 2027. The research in our lab is data and model intensive; our research commonly involves extensive data analysis and modeling, leveraging big data from biodiversity and environmental databases, employing various modeling techniques, and conducting large-scale computations to explore biogeography and biodiversity patterns at a global or continental scale. Prospective students sharing similar research interests, including biogeography, biodiversity informatics, and ecological niche modeling, are highly encouraged to apply. Graduate students will be supported through a combination of research and teaching assistantships. Interested students are encouraged to send me the following information via this Google form. - A 1-2 page cover letter (please explain your research interests, why you are interested in joining, and your experience working with programming/statistics/data science); - Your most recent CV, including contact information for three references; - PDFs of writing samples (e.g., peer-reviewed article, thesis, essay, preprint; up to 3). Posted: 8/28/26.

University of North Carolina Wilmington: two open graduate student positions in the Schweikert Lab at the Department of Biology and Marine Biology at UNCW. Applicants with experience in neurophysiological or behavioral approaches are preferred, though not required. 1.MSc in Marine Biology: Behavioral Ecology of Dynamic Color Change in Reef Fishes (starting Spring or Summer 2027). 2. PhD in Integrative, Comparative, and Marine Biology: Neuroethology of Adaptive Camouflage in Flatfishes (starting Fall 2027). Prior to applying to the UNCW graduate program, interested students should email Dr. Lorian Schweikert (schweikertl@uncw.edu) with the following: - Statement of career goals and research interests (1 page max) - Resume or CV - Unofficial transcripts - Contact information for three references. Interviews for both positions will begin in early fall, though interest emails will be accepted until the positions are filled. The UNCW application deadline for the MSc position is October 15th, 2026 and for the PhD position is February 15th, 2027. Program Synopsis: Dynamic color change allows animals such as certain marine fishes to rapidly change the color and pattern of their skin, yet knowledge is lacking about how these animals gather and process the visual information needed to make color change decisions. Recent discoveries suggest that many color-changing animals can detect light with their skin, a process known as dermal photoreception, which may work alongside the eyes to regulate color change. Our lab investigates how dermal photoreception contributes to color change in fishes and whether the skin acts as a sensory system for monitoring the environment or the animal’s own coloration. By uncovering the principles underlying distributed light sensing and adaptive camouflage, the project may inform future technologies related to bioinspired sensing and material science. See also UNCW Center for Marine Science. Posted: 7/10/26.

University of North Dakota: The Dunkle Lab in the Department of Biology is recruiting one or more MS or PhD students in freshwater ecology to start Summer/Fall 2027. This is a new lab, so incoming students will have real input into shaping its research direction. Research examines food web and trophic dynamics in lakes and streams using diet, stable isotope, and other approaches, with particular interest in how climate change and disturbance (wildfire, shifting thermal and hydrologic regimes) reshape aquatic food webs. Potential systems include North Dakota prairie rivers and streams or the prairie-to-boreal ecotone of northern Minnesota, with possible continuing work in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest. Interested applicants should send a brief cover letter, CV, and contact information for three references as a single PDF to Matt Dunkle (matthew.dunkle@und.edu) with the subject line “GA Position (applicants last name)". Considering applications on a rolling basis until January 31, 2027.

University of North Texas: [position filled] A PhD position is available in the Lichtenberg Lab starting fall 2027. This position is part of an NSF-funded project that is developing a new framework and tools for understanding and valuing ecosystem services, with a focus on crop pollination. In collaboration with a computer scientist (Xiaohui Yuan at the University of North Texas) and another ecologist (Rufus Isaacs at Michigan State University), this student will provide ecological knowledge for development of computer vision (AI) models and conduct fieldwork to ground-truth those models. These models, and ecological theory, will contribute to development of the valuation framework by two environmental economists (Erik Lichtenberg at the University of Maryland, Kathy Baylis at the University of California, Santa Barbara). Research activities include fieldwork in Texas, literature synthesis, development of model training datasets, and contributing ecological knowledge to computer vision and economic model development. The student is also expected to conduct dissertation research related to this project or that leverages tools the Lichtenberg lab has built for working with species occurrence records. Preferred qualifications include fieldwork experience, ability to work in hot conditions, and patience. Funding includes semester and summer salary, a tuition scholarship, and health insurance. The Lichtenberg lab combines community and behavioral ecology to study plant-animal interactions, pollinator foraging and insect biodiversity. We are particularly interested in how land use change and land management practices affect these phenomena. Please contact Dr. Elinor Lichtenberg (elichten@unt.edu) before applying. Send your CV, information on relevant experiences, the degree and kinds of questions you are interested in, career goals, and unofficial transcripts. Posted: 8/26/26.

University of North Texas: [position filled] A funded PhD/MS position is available in the Lichtenberg Lab starting summer or fall 2027. This position is part of a USDA-funded project investigating how ranch management impacts pollinator, plant, and soil microbe biodiversity both directly and through habitat modification. The selected student will focus on the pollinator component. Research activities will include fieldwork at local North Texas ranches, insect identification, and analyzing a multi-year dataset from the ranches. Funding includes semester and summer salary, a tuition scholarship, and health insurance for PhD students or a Health Assistance Scholarship for MS students. The Lichtenberg Lab combines community and behavioral ecology to study plant-animal interactions, pollinator foraging and insect biodiversity. We are particularly interested in how land use change and land management practices affect these phenomena. The lab is committed to providing an inclusive and supportive environment to trainees from diverse backgrounds. Application: Please contact Dr. Elinor Lichtenberg (elichten@unt.edu) before applying. Send your CV, information on relevant experiences, the degree and kinds of questions you are interested in, and unofficial transcripts. Posted: 7/24/26.

University of Oklahoma: The Martins Lab has two open positions for graduate students (MSc and/or PhD) starting in Fall 2027. The successful candidates will work on data synthesis projects focused on parasite macroecology in amphibian and reptile hosts. The project involves investigating the drivers of parasite diversity and load at different scales and levels of biological organization. Students will also have the opportunity to develop their own ideas and engage in fieldwork and experimental approaches. These positions will be supported by a combination of TA and RA appointments. Interested? More information here: https://martins-lab.weebly.com Applications will be reviewed as they are received until November 7. Posted: 10/23/26.

University of South Dakota: The Matoo Lab has an opening available for a Ph.D. student to begin Spring 2027 in the Department of Biology. The goal of this project is to investigate molecular, cellular and organismal responses of two freshwater mussel species to changes in water temperature and sedimentation regimes to better inform mussel conservation and management. Experimental metrics involve measurement of whole-organism metabolic rates, mitochondrial bioenergetics, and biochemical assays (for determination of metabolic enzyme activities and redox homeostasis). MS in molecular ecology, ecophysiology, cellular physiology or organismal biology is required. Previous experience working with freshwater musses and/or marine bivalves is preferred. Strong communication (written and oral), quantitative, teamwork skills are essential, as is a desire to learn. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Completion of GRE is not required. This is a part of a larger NSF funded project, in collaboration with Louisiana State University and Auburn University. The assistantship includes tuition and a stipend for a duration of 4 years, with additional GA/TAship opportunities from the department. If interested, please email Dr. Omera Matoo (Omera.Matoo@usd.edu) with: 1) a 1-2-page letter of interest that describes your educational and research background, as well as your research interests and career goals, 2) an updated CV, and 3) contact information of at least 3 professional references. Please write "Mussel Physiology Position" in the subject line of your email. Application review will begin Oct 1st, 2026. Posted: 9/4/26.

University of Southern Mississippi: Understanding Nekton-Seagrass Habitat Relationships and Drivers of Change to Support Coastal Management. We seek a motivated student to fill a funded Ph.D. assistantship at The University of Southern Mississippi’s Gulf Coast Research Laboratory in Ocean Springs, MS. The selected student will be co-advised by Dr. Zachary Darnell and Dr. Kelly Darnell. This assistantship will begin in Spring 2027. The assistantship will be centered on a recently funded project to identify and monitor long-term trends and variability in seagrass-dominated ecosystems in the Gulf Islands National Seashore and identify drivers of change in biodiversity and productivity of these systems to inform coastal resource management. The project will involve field sampling for seagrass and seagrass-associated nekton across the Gulf Islands National Seashore in Florida and Mississippi, as well as laboratory sample processing and analyses of existing long-term datasets. Experience working in seagrass beds and familiarity with coastal nekton communities is preferred but not required. This is a collaborative project with researchers at multiple academic institutions and stakeholders from multiple agencies including the National Park Service. The student selected for this position will pursue a Ph.D. degree in the Division of Coastal Sciences within the School of Ocean Science and Engineering (SOSE). The assistantship includes tuition and a stipend of $28,500 per year for a duration of 5 years. The student selected for the assistantship will be a fully integrated member of the project team and will contribute to study design, collection and analysis of data, and manuscript preparation. Applicants with an M.S. degree are preferred. Interested students should contact Dr. Zachary Darnell (zachary.darnell@usm.edu). Please include a cover letter describing your interests and career goals, a copy of your CV, unofficial undergraduate and graduate transcripts, and contact information for three professional references. For full consideration, submit all required information by August 31, 2026. Posted: 7/24/26.

University of Texas at El Paso: We are considering applications for a Fall 2027 PhD student to begin at UTEP through the EEB Program. The student will work on the remote sensing of forest vegetation structure (roots), soil ecology, and ecosystem function with a collaborative team (SERC, UCONN, IU, Kenyon College) at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) (on objectives for NSF Award #2621909). Minimum requirements: At least a 3.2 GPA, previous independent research experience including in the field, must obtain a US driver’s license. This project has a heavy field component requiring work at SERC (Edgewater, Maryland) for 1-2 semesters for long-hours outdoors and in possible challenging weather. The student will be based in El Paso, TX for the remainder of the UTEP PhD program when not doing field research at SERC. Benefits for UTEP PhD students: Graduate assistantship, student health insurance, tuition remission. Interested applicants can contact Dr. La Rue (ealarue@utep.edu) with your CV (including any publications), a 1 page summary of your research/career goals, and contact info for 2 references. Posted: 8/7/26, revised: 9/18/26.

University of Valencia: New PhD position on Pond Ecosystems functions and Terrestrial-Aquatic interactions. The PhD will focus on aquatic ecology, with a strong emphasis on ecosystem functioning in ponds and on how surrounding terrestrial plant biodiversity influences pond processes linked to microbial communities. The position will be based at the CIDE-CSIC institute in Valencia, Spain. More details. The submission deadline is 18th October. Interviews will be held in mid-October. The starting date is early 2027 (ideally 01/01/2027), but can be adjusted by mutual agreement. The position is full-time for four years. Submit your application as a single PDF to Maria Cuenca (maria.cuenca@uvic.cat). Include the following in your application: - A cover letter explaining your interest in the position. - Your CV including your experience in ecology or related fields - A copy of your MSc diploma and courses taken. - Names, institutional affiliations, email addresses, and phone numbers of two references. Support letters are welcome. Posted: 9/18/26.

University of Vermont: The Gund Institute for Environment at the University of Vermont (UVM) seeks exceptional PhD applicants to conduct interdisciplinary research on environmental challenges beginning in fall 2027. Applications are due Jan. 5, 2027. The Gund Institute is a research center that mobilizes scholars and decision makers to understand and solve critical and interconnected environmental challenges. Driven by the belief that research should inspire action, the Institute takes a cross-sector approach to solving environmental issues with stakeholders from government, business, and broader society. Funded students will receive four years of funding, including an annual stipend of $37,000, plus tuition. All students are eligible for health insurance and have access to professional development training and additional funds for conference travel and research costs. Applicants must identify a Gund Faculty Fellow as their primary advisor and must also apply to the appropriate UVM graduate program. These assistantships are for individuals who have not yet started their PhDs. International applicants are welcome to apply. For more details and application instructions, please see https://www.uvm.edu/gund/gund-phd-research-fellowships. Students who are interested in ecological economics are encouraged to also consider applying to the Leadership for the Ecozoic (L4E) initiative. Questions? Contact: Bailey.Rowland@uvm.edu. Posted: 10/23/26.

University of Washington: The Lowman Lab in the School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences (SAFS) is recruiting a PhD student in watershed ecology and biogeochemistry to start in fall 2027. Applicants should be interested in conducting research on topics including, but not limited to, quantifying recovery and resilience of streams and rivers following large floods or other disturbances, the effects of wildfire on stream biogeochemistry, how compounding climate events impact aquatic primary productivity and nutrient cycling, how changing winter hydrology and precipitation shapes stream productivity (both primary and secondary), and how human modification of the landscape or flow regime alters stream ecosystem function and biodiversity. Graduate students in the Lowman Lab will be trained in foundational stream ecology methods and approaches, field ecology techniques, analytical chemistry protocols, data science and programming for ecological modeling, manuscript preparation, grant writing, and science communication. Students will also be encouraged to attend national and international conferences and workshops to present their findings, build their networks, and identify new career opportunities. At SAFS, the graduate student will join a dynamic and highly collaborative community of aquatic scientists and will have opportunities to join associated programs, such as the Quantitative Ecology and Resource Management Program. Successful candidates will be: enthusiastic about watershed ecology and biogeochemistry; organized and detail-oriented with demonstrated experience managing research projects; and collegial and excited to collaborate as part of larger, multi-disciplinary research groups. Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (biology, chemistry, earth/environmental science, etc.) by spring 2027 and a minimum of one year of prior research experience (either in academic or professional settings). The position is funded through a combination of SAFS teaching/research assistantships, including a paid stipend, tuition waiver, and health insurance. There is also a possibility for the student to begin developing project ideas and gain experience as a field research technician in summer 2027. Interested applicants should submit a one-page cover letter (describing past experience, motivation to pursue a graduate degree, and reasons for applying to this position), a CV or resume, an unofficial transcript, and contact information for three professional references via e-mail to Dr. Heili Lowman (hlowman@uw.edu) by October 9. Dr. Lowman is committed to building equitable, supportive research communities and strongly encourages applications from candidates with a diversity of experiences, interests, and identities. Applicants whose skills and interests best align with the research team will be invited to conduct video interviews with Dr. Lowman in mid-October, and competitive applicants will be invited to submit their applications to the UW SAFS program (due November 15). Note, SAFS does not require applicants to have taken the GRE. Please reach out to Dr. Lowman with any questions. Posted: 9/18/26.

University of Wisconsin-Madison: PhD position for aquatic ecology in Iceland. The Ives Lab in the Department of Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, is recruiting a PhD student interested in working on a long-term ecological project at Lake Mývatn, Iceland. The research focuses on interactions between the population dynamics of midges in Mývatn and the aquatic ecosystem. The project encompasses population ecology, community ecology and ecosystem ecology, and the PhD student will have freedom to design their own research program to fit in with the overall objectives of understanding the ecology of Mývatn. The fieldwork is conducted June-August by a team of researchers at Mývatn, including faculty, postdocs, graduate students, and undergraduates. The graduate student will not only be responsible for their own PhD research, but will also participate with the rest of the research team and mentor undergraduate students. To be competitive, prospective students should have substantial experience in collaborative research and fieldwork. Although not required, quantitative skills in, for example, statistical analyses are a plus. A Master's degree is not required. If you are interested, please prepare a cover letter and CV as a single pdf. Your cover letter should briefly outline your background and why you are interested in this position. In your CV, please include relevant information about your education and work experiences. Also provide names and contact information for at least three references whom we can contact to ask specific questions about your qualifications for the position. Our lab and the University of Wisconsin are committed to supporting scientists from underrepresented groups such as first-generation college students and students with underprivileged economic backgrounds. Please send this information by 1 November, 2026, to Tony Ives (professor) – arives@wisc.edu. Posted: 10/23/26.

University of Wisconsin-Madison: The Guédot Entomology Laboratory is looking for a highly qualified and motivated individual who wishes to pursue a PhD in Entomology. The project will focus on biocontrol strategies to manage Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica) infestation as well as assessing factors contributing to Japanese beetle infestation in Wisconsin vineyards. The Ph.D student will investigate the efficacy of two biological control agents and optimize their use in commercial settings. Specifically, the student will assess the virulence of naturally-occurring entomopathogenic nematodes and refine work with the microsporidian Ovavesicula popilliae to manage Japanese beetle. In addition the student will determine which abiotic factors can best predict the seasonal abundance of Japanese beetle in vineyard and explain the variability in abundance across vineyards. Qualifications: M.S. degree in entomology, biology, or other related fields. The candidate is expected to work independently and within a team and have excellent verbal and written communication skills. Experience with PCR, insect and nematode rearing, and landscape is . Strong work ethic, excellent writing skills, and the ability to work outdoors for extended periods of time are a must. The assistantship includes an RA stipend and tuition waiver for two years with the possibility to cover the remaining of the program through a research or teaching assistantship depending on funding availability. Application materials: 1) a current CV including GPA (GRE scores are not required), 2) unofficial transcripts, 3) a cover letter stating your research interests, previous experience, qualifications as they match the qualifications outlined in the announcement, and career goals, and 4) contact information for two references to Christelle Guédot at guedot@wisc.edu. Please do not submit an online application at UW-Madison until you have had a formal interview with Dr. Guédot. To be fully considered for the position, submit your application by October 15, 2026. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Start Date: January 1, 2027. Posted: 8/28/26.

University of Würzburg: I am pleased to announce a PhD position in my lab (Dr Sabine Nooten) in Würzburg, Germany. This fully funded PhD project will investigate how heat waves affect insect pollinators, from their ability to detect floral scents to their foraging behaviour. The project will also examine how heat stress influences pollination efficiency, including flower visitation and pollen transfer, providing insights into how climate change may impact pollination services. We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with a Master's degree (or equivalent) in biology, ecology, entomology, or related field, and a background in insect physiology, behavioural ecology, and/or pollination biology as well as experience in conducting experiments in the field and laboratory, and good statistical skills in R, and fluency in written and spoken English language. Application deadline: 15. Oktober 2026. Starting date: 01. December 2026 . Further details, including information on the project, requirements, and how to apply, can be found in the job advertisement (pdf). Posted: 9/18/26.

University of Wyoming: The Tarwater Lab seeks a highly motivated and curious Ph.D. student to study tropical birds in Panama, ideally starting Fall 2027. The student may address questions in behavior, demography, or species interactions. Projects can build on ongoing work on army ant swarms, mixed-species flocks, plant-disperser interactions, population declines, and multi-taxon interactions among birds, bats, fruits, and insects. Projects may examine environmental variation across space, using Panama’s precipitation gradient, or through time, using long-term data from a single site. A key strength of this position is access to datasets already collected in Panama. The student will divide their time between collecting new field data and analyzing existing data, allowing them to start publishing early while developing their own fieldwork. The student will have flexibility to shape the focus of their dissertation within these themes. Successful applicants will be expected to contribute to a collaborative team, present results at professional conferences, publish results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner, and assist with grant proposals. Support is provided through a combination of Research Assistantship and Teaching Assistantships, which include a living wage, tuition, and benefits. Qualifications: Candidates must possess a B.S. or M.S. degree in biology, wildlife ecology, natural resource management, or a related field. Ideal candidates would have 1+ years of field experience, including experience in the mist-netting of birds, and some experience in analyses and writing manuscripts. Preference will be given to applicants with proficiency in Spanish and experience in tropical avian ecology. To apply: Email Dr. Corey E. Tarwater (corey.tarwater@uwyo.edu) with the subject line “PhD Application - Tropical Bird Ecology” and attach a single document containing: 1) a cover letter outlining experience and specific interests related to tropical avian ecology and species interactions; 2) curriculum vitae; 3) unofficial transcripts; and 4) contact information for 3 references familiar with your experience and qualifications. If you are an international student, please include your TOEFL scores. Review of applications will begin November 1, 2026. Posted: 10/23/26.

University of Wyoming: The Weiss-Lehman lab is recruiting multiple graduate students (PhD and master’s positions available) to join our group in spring or fall 2027. Research in our lab uses a combination of laboratory microcosms computational models to explore the role of rapid evolution in ecological responses to global change. Current projects focus on testing the eco-evolutionary mechanisms responsible for range limit formation, predicting the evolutionary impact of climate driven range shifts, and applying advanced statistical techniques to better quantify the strength of species interactions. We are a highly collaborative group, and lab members are encouraged to work together on group projects while also developing independent research programs based on their own interests. Our lab is committed to creating a research culture in which all lab members feel valued and supported. The positions will be fully funded, including tuition, stipends, and health insurance. Applicants need a bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, evolution, or a related field. Previous experience with quantitative techniques and/or scientific computing languages (e.g., R or Python) is a plus. To apply, please email Topher Weiss-Lehman (cwiessle@uwyo.edu) with your CV, transcripts (unofficial are fine), a statement of interest, and contact information for 2-3 professional references. I will also be at the ESA meeting in Salt Lake City, so feel free to reach out to arrange a time to meet and discuss the positions during the meeting. Posted: 7/17/26.

Vanderbilt University: The Meng Lab in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences is seeking one fully funded Ph.D. student interested in vegetation remote sensing, urban ecology, and environmental change. The student will have opportunities to work with satellite observations, geospatial analysis, and AI/ML approaches to investigate how urban environmental factors, including warming, artificial light at night, and air pollution, influence vegetation dynamics, ecosystem processes, and environmental exposures relevant to human health. The anticipated starting date is Fall 2027. Qualifications: strong quantitative programming skills and solid background in urban ecology, vegetation remote sensing, and ML modeling. Proficiency in spoken/written English. Application: Interested candidates should email a brief description of research interests and experiences, CV, transcripts (Bachelor's and Master's, if applicable) in a combined PDF to Dr. Lin Meng (lin.meng@vanderbilt.edu). The Fall application deadline for the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (EES) program is January 1. Please visit the departmental webpage for admission requirements and the application process. PhD position details. Contact: Dr. Lin Meng, lin.meng@vanderbilt.edu. Posted: 11/6/26.

Washington State University: The Veterinary and Medical Ecology Lab is seeking a highly motivated, ambitious, and organized student (MS or PhD), who is interested in the epidemiology and ecology of rodent-borne diseases to start in August 2027. The successful candidate would join a growing team of veterinary and undergraduate students conducting research within a One Health context. The position would include field work in the Pacific Northwest, lab work in Pullman, Washington, and quantitative modelling. If you’re interested, please email Andreas Eleftheriou (Andreas.Eleftheriou@wsu.edu) by November 1st, 2026, with subject line “Graduate Application Rodent Disease” and include 1) a statement of your research interests, relevant experience, and career goals, 2) unofficial academic transcripts and 3) a CV with contact information for three professional or academic references. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and top candidates will be contacted via email for further guidance. The successful candidate will be asked to submit a formal application through the Multidisciplinary program in Infectious Disease at the College of Veterinary Medicine. Posted: 9/25/26.

Assistantships and Fellowships | Fellowship Program Links

Fellowship Program Links:

• Department of Homeland Security Scholarship and Fellowship Program
• Ford Foundation and Howard Hughes Medical Institute
• Hertz Foundation - supports PhD students in the physical, biological, and engineering sciences
• International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis Young Scientists Program
• Link Foundation Ocean Engineering and Instrumentation Ph.D. Fellowship Program
• NASA Earth System Science Fellowship Program
• NASA Graduate Student Researchers Program
• NASA Harriett G. Jenkins Pre-doctoral Fellowship Program
• National Academies Christine Mirzayan Internship Program
• National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship Program
• National Estuarine Research Reserve System Fellowships
• National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis Visiting Graduate Student Fellowships
• NOAA Graduate Sciences Program
• National Science Foundation Doctoral Dissertation Improvement Grants
• National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program
• The Nature Conservancy - NatureNet Science Fellowship Program
• NSF/New England Wild Flower Society Fellowship Program in Conservation Biology
• National Wildlife Federation Campus Ecology Fellowship Program
• Organization for Tropical Studies
• Rainforest Alliance Kleinhans Fellowship
• Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholarships
• Smithsonian Environmental Research Center
• Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Opportunities
• Udall Foundation Environmental Public Policy & Conflict Resolution Ph.D. Fellowship
• US Department of Energy Global Change Education Program
• US EPA STAR Fellowships
• US Forest Service Presidential Management Fellows
• WWF Kathryn Fuller Doctoral Fellowships