A funded Master of Science opportunity in soil biogeochemistry is available at the University of Wyoming for students interested in soil science, terrestrial biogeochemistry, climate change, environmental research, and ecosystem science.
The position will be based in the newly established Soil Carbon and Organic matter Response to Environmental change (Soil CORE) Lab, led by PI Katie Rocci.
The funded M.S. student will develop and implement research examining how soil organic matter responds to climate and management changes, with a potential research focus on the effects of fire. The position is expected to begin in summer 2027, with the possibility of starting in fall 2027 if necessary.
Applications received by October 30, 2026 will receive priority consideration, although the position will remain open until filled.
Funded M.S. Opportunity at the University of Wyoming
The successful candidate will join the Soil CORE Lab and collaborate with researchers within the University of Wyoming’s Department of Ecosystem Science and Management and the Program in Ecology and Evolution.
The research will focus on soil organic matter and its response to environmental and management changes. Depending on the student’s interests and project development, the research may examine how soils respond to fire.
The opportunity is particularly relevant to students interested in:
- Soil science
- Soil biogeochemistry
- Soil organic matter
- Climate and environmental change
- Terrestrial ecosystems
- Fire and ecosystem responses
- Environmental science
- Field-based research
- Laboratory research
- Computational scientific research
The student will be expected to actively participate in the academic and research community while developing skills relevant to future careers in research, academia, environmental science, and related fields.
Funding and Graduate Assistantships
The M.S. position will be supported through a combination of research assistantships (RA) and teaching assistantships (TA) for at least two years.
This makes the opportunity particularly relevant to prospective graduate students seeking a funded route into master’s-level research in environmental and ecological sciences.
The position also provides a flexible work schedule and the possibility of partial remote work when needed to accommodate the student’s needs.
Prospective applicants should review the official application information carefully for the complete details of the funding arrangement and any requirements associated with graduate assistantships.
Who Can Apply?
The ideal applicant should have a bachelor’s degree by May 2027 and demonstrate an interest in soil science or terrestrial biogeochemistry.
Candidates should also demonstrate:
- Strong written communication skills
- Strong oral communication skills
- Ability to work independently
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team
- Interest or experience in soil science
- Interest or experience in terrestrial biogeochemistry
- Experience or interest in scientific research
- Field, laboratory, computational, or classroom-based research experience
Research experience does not necessarily have to come from a formal employment position. Experience gained through coursework, academic projects, laboratory activities, fieldwork, or other scientific research can also be relevant.
Applicants who already hold an M.S. degree are encouraged to consider the separately advertised funded Ph.D. opportunity in the same laboratory.
What Will the M.S. Student Do?
The selected student will work with PI Katie Rocci and members of the University of Wyoming’s ecosystem science and ecology communities to develop and conduct a research project.
Responsibilities and expectations include:
- Designing and implementing a research project
- Investigating soil organic matter responses to environmental change
- Potentially examining soil responses to fire
- Participating in laboratory meetings
- Attending college seminars and academic activities
- Developing empirical and computational research skills
- Preparing research for peer-reviewed publication
- Presenting findings at scientific conferences
- Participating actively in professional development
The research experience is designed to provide students with both scientific and professional skills that can support careers in environmental research and related fields.
Mentorship and Professional Development
The Soil CORE Lab emphasizes structured mentorship and professional development. According to the position announcement, the PI will provide transparent expectations, research guidance, regular feedback, and opportunities to develop empirical and computational skills.
Students will also have access to professional development resources relevant to their individual career goals.
The lab has stated its commitment to advancing diversity in the Earth sciences and welcomes applicants from a broad range of backgrounds.
When Does the Position Start?
The anticipated start date is summer 2027.
A fall 2027 start may also be possible if required. Applicants should therefore indicate their availability and consider how the proposed start date fits with their bachelor’s degree completion timeline.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should complete the online application form provided by the Soil CORE Lab.
Application priority deadline: October 30, 2026
Applications submitted before this date will receive priority in the review process. However, the position will remain open until a suitable candidate is selected.
Application form:
https://forms.gle/FFgJPVLkxRKKpKRF8
Prospective applicants should ensure that their application clearly demonstrates their academic background, research interests, relevant experience, communication abilities, and interest in soil biogeochemistry and environmental change.
Why Prospective Graduate Students Should Prepare Early
Students interested in funded graduate research opportunities should begin preparing well before application deadlines. Relevant preparation can include developing a strong academic CV, identifying research interests, documenting research experience, and clearly explaining why a particular laboratory and research area align with their academic and career goals.
For applicants interested in soil science, climate change, ecosystem science, and environmental research, this M.S. position offers an opportunity to gain hands-on research experience while working within an interdisciplinary university research environment.
With priority review beginning after October 30, 2026, eligible applicants should prepare and submit their materials as early as possible.
