Apply for PhD and Master’s assistantships in aquatic ecology and fisheries at Miami University, USA, for Fall 2027. Successful students receive a stipend and full tuition waiver.
Opportunity Overview
- Host Institution: Miami University
- Research Group: Wagner Lab
- Location: Oxford, Ohio, United States
- Study Levels: PhD and Master’s
- Research Areas: Aquatic Ecology, Fisheries Management, Conservation and Environmental Change
- Start Date: Fall 2027
- Funding: Stipend and full tuition waiver
- Priority Application Deadline: 15 November 2027
- Application Method: Email application to Dr. Tyler Wagner
- Official Website: https://wagneraqualab.weebly.com/opportunities.html
Fully Funded Graduate Assistantships in Aquatic Ecology and Fisheries
Students interested in aquatic ecosystems, freshwater fisheries, environmental conservation and global environmental change have an opportunity to explore graduate research at Miami University in the United States.
The Wagner Lab, based in the university’s Department of Biology, is seeking motivated PhD and Master’s students to join its research team beginning in Fall 2027. The assistantships will support research examining how environmental and human-driven pressures affect aquatic ecosystems and freshwater fish populations.
Successful candidates will receive graduate support through a combination of research and teaching assistantships. The package includes a stipend and a full tuition waiver, making this an opportunity worth considering for eligible applicants seeking funded graduate education in the United States.
The laboratory particularly welcomes candidates interested in pursuing a PhD in Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Biology. However, strong applicants seeking a Master’s degree in Biology will also be considered.
Fully Funded Aquatic Ecology PhD and Master’s Assistantships at Miami University, USA — Fall 2027: Research Areas and Academic Opportunities
The Wagner Lab investigates how aquatic ecosystems respond to environmental pressures operating across different geographical and temporal scales. Its research combines local ecological investigations with broader analyses to understand and predict changes in freshwater environments.
Graduate students will develop their own research questions while contributing to interdisciplinary research projects. Key areas of investigation include:
- Climate change: Examining how changing environmental conditions influence aquatic ecosystems and fish populations.
- Land use and land management: Investigating how human activities and landscape changes affect freshwater environments.
- Aquatic invasive species: Understanding the ecological effects of non-native species and their implications for aquatic biodiversity.
- Eutrophication: Studying nutrient enrichment and its effects on water quality and ecosystem functioning.
- Environmental pollution: Investigating persistent chemical pollutants, including per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), in aquatic systems.
- Fisheries management and conservation: Generating scientific evidence to improve understanding and management of freshwater fish populations.
These research themes provide opportunities for students to develop quantitative research skills and contribute to scientific knowledge relevant to environmental management and conservation.
Interdisciplinary Research and Professional Development
Graduate students joining the Wagner Lab will work with interdisciplinary research teams comprising federal, state and academic scientists.
This collaborative environment offers opportunities to gain experience in ecological research, statistical analysis, scientific communication and research publication. Students will also be expected to present their findings at scientific conferences and contribute to academic journal publications.
The laboratory seeks candidates with a strong quantitative background or a willingness to develop skills in Bayesian hierarchical statistical modelling. These methods can help researchers investigate ecological patterns, account for uncertainty and understand complex environmental processes.
Applicants who enjoy working independently while contributing to collaborative research teams may find the programme particularly suitable.
Fully Funded Aquatic Ecology PhD and Master’s Assistantships at Miami University, USA — Fall 2027: Eligibility Requirements
The assistantships are intended for highly motivated candidates with academic backgrounds relevant to aquatic ecology, fisheries or related environmental disciplines.
Applicants should have completed a Bachelor of Science or Master’s degree in ecology, fisheries, ecological statistics or a related field.
The laboratory is looking for candidates who demonstrate:
- A strong quantitative background or a willingness to learn advanced ecological statistical methods.
- An interest in aquatic ecology, freshwater fisheries, environmental change or conservation.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- The ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- An interest in presenting research findings and contributing to peer-reviewed publications.
Candidates should carefully consider their research interests and explain how their academic preparation aligns with the laboratory’s research themes.
Fully Funded Aquatic Ecology PhD and Master’s Assistantships at Miami University, USA — Fall 2027: Funding and Benefits
Selected graduate students will receive support through a combination of research and teaching assistantships beginning in Fall 2027.
The advertised funding package includes:
- A stipend to support students during their graduate studies.
- A full tuition waiver.
- Opportunities to participate in collaborative research with scientists from different institutions.
- Experience in ecological data analysis, field research and scientific publication.
The laboratory has not specified the stipend amount or additional benefits on the advertised page. Applicants should contact the supervisor to clarify the funding package and any other financial arrangements.
Required Application Documents
Interested applicants must prepare the following documents:
- Cover letter: Explain research experience, academic interests and reasons for wanting to join the Wagner Lab.
- Curriculum vitae: Provide a detailed account of academic qualifications, research experience, technical skills and relevant publications.
- Three professional references: Include the names and contact information of three referees.
- Academic transcripts: Unofficial transcripts are acceptable at the application stage.
- Relevant publication: Include a publication if available.
All documents should be combined into a single PDF file before submission.
Applicants should email their complete application to Dr. Tyler Wagner by email
The laboratory states that applications submitted before 15 November 2027 will receive priority consideration. However, applicant review begins immediately and continues until the positions are filled. Candidates are therefore encouraged to apply early.
For additional information about the laboratory’s research, graduate programmes and application requirements, visit the official opportunities page:
Applicants can also explore Miami University’s graduate programme in Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Biology through the university’s official website.
Why Consider This Opportunity?
These assistantships offer prospective graduate researchers an opportunity to pursue advanced study while investigating important environmental challenges affecting freshwater ecosystems. The combination of stipend support, a full tuition waiver and interdisciplinary research experience may appeal to students planning careers in ecological research, fisheries management, conservation science or environmental policy.
Candidates should ensure that their academic background and research interests align with the Wagner Lab’s work before submitting an application.
Application reminder: The advertised priority deadline is 15 November 2027, but recruitment is ongoing until the positions are filled. Confirm the current availability of positions and detailed funding conditions directly with the laboratory before applying.
Official Application Link
Important editorial note: The laboratory’s official page confirms the graduate assistantships, stipend, full tuition waiver and Fall 2027 start. The 15 November 2027 date is stated as a priority deadline, not a final closing date.
