Apply for Fully Funded Aquatic Ecology PhD and Master’s Assistantships at Miami University, USA — Fall 2027: Stipend and Full Tuition Waiver Available
Overview
Graduate assistantships are available at Miami University in the United States for PhD and Master’s students focusing on aquatic ecology and fisheries management. Based in the Department of Biology's Wagner Lab in Oxford, Ohio, the positions begin in Fall 2027 and involve investigating how environmental and human-driven pressures impact aquatic ecosystems and freshwater fish populations. Research themes encompass climate change, land use and land management, aquatic invasive species, eutrophication, environmental pollution including PFAS, and fisheries conservation. Students collaborate with federal, state, and academic scientists while developing independent research questions, gaining experience in ecological data analysis, field research, scientific communication, and publication.
Who can apply
The opportunities are intended for motivated candidates with academic backgrounds relevant to aquatic ecology, fisheries, or related environmental disciplines. Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Science or Master’s degree in ecology, fisheries, ecological statistics, or a related field. The laboratory especially welcomes candidates seeking a PhD in Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Biology, alongside strong applicants pursuing a Master’s degree in Biology.
Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate an interest in aquatic ecology, freshwater fisheries, environmental change, or conservation, alongside excellent written and oral communication skills. Candidates are expected to possess the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, maintain an interest in presenting research findings, and contribute to peer-reviewed publications. Furthermore, candidates should have a strong quantitative background or a willingness to develop skills in Bayesian hierarchical statistical modelling and other advanced ecological statistical methods.
What you get
Selected students receive graduate support through a combination of research and teaching assistantships starting in Fall 2027. The financial package includes a stipend and a full tuition waiver. In addition to financial support, participants gain professional development through collaborative research, scientific presentations, and experience in ecological data analysis and publication.
How to apply
Candidates must submit a complete application consisting of a cover letter detailing research experience and academic interests, a curriculum vitae, unofficial academic transcripts, contact information for three professional references, and a relevant publication if available. All application documents must be combined into a single PDF file and sent via email to Dr. Tyler Wagner.
Key dates
The priority application deadline is 15 November 2027. The program start date is Fall 2027.