Auburn University in Alabama, United States, is offering three fully funded graduate research assistantships for students interested in pursuing master's and PhD degrees in aquatic ecology and harmful algal blooms.

The positions provide an annual stipend of $35,000 for PhD candidates and $30,000 for master's students, together with full tuition fee waivers.

According to the university's research opportunity listing, highly qualified PhD candidates may also be considered for special presidential fellowships that award at least $50,000 per year.

The opportunities are based in Alan Wilson's laboratory, which studies freshwater ecosystems, plankton communities and harmful algal blooms.

The application deadline is set for July 14, 2027, and selected students can discuss preferred start dates with the lab.

Scholarship Benefits

The graduate research assistantships give financial support to master's and doctoral students at Auburn University.

PhD applicants will start with a $35,000 annual stipend, while master's students receive $30,000 per year.

Both assistantships include a 12-month stipend and a full tuition waiver.

Auburn may also consider strong PhD applicants for its Presidential Graduate Research Fellowship or Presidential Graduate Opportunity Fellowship.

These fellowships can provide at least $50,000 per year for up to three years.

The additional fellowships are awarded through a separate competitive process and are not guaranteed.

Research Areas and Program Details

The graduate research roles focus on aquatic ecology, freshwater ecosystems and harmful algal blooms.

Students will work in Alan Wilson's laboratory, which examines ecological, evolutionary and limnological processes shaping freshwater plankton communities.

The program seeks to advance scientific knowledge of freshwater ecosystems and the environmental factors influencing aquatic organisms.

Current projects receive support from USDA-ARS, USDA-NIFA and the EPA.

Participants may engage in field experiments, ecological monitoring, laboratory analysis, ecosystem modelling and data analysis.

Who Can Apply for the Scholarship

The lab welcomes applications from students aiming for master's or PhD degrees in aquatic ecology and related fields.

Preference is given to PhD candidates, though master's applicants are also considered.

The position description states ideal candidates should show strong motivation, honesty, teamwork and interest in freshwater ecosystems.

Applicants with coursework in ecology, limnology and statistics may have an advantage.

Previous research experience, analytical skills and a desire to mentor undergraduates are valued, though not mandatory.

Academic and English-Language Requirements

The scholarship summary lists a minimum GPA of 3.0 for applicants.

It also cites English proficiency scores of IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 79 or Duolingo English Test 115.

The original assistantship advertisement does not specify these minimum scores.

Prospective students must verify Auburn's graduate admission requirements before applying.

The lab especially welcomes candidates with backgrounds in ecology, environmental science, freshwater ecosystems and quantitative research.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare a CV, academic transcripts and contact details for three references.

GRE scores may be submitted if available, though they are not required.

Materials should clearly demonstrate academic background, research experience and interest in aquatic ecology.

Candidates can also highlight relevant lab techniques, fieldwork and prior research projects.

How to Apply for the Auburn University Scholarship

Interested students may submit their materials through the online form listed in the assistantship advertisement.

They should have their CV, transcripts and three references ready before completing the application.

GRE scores can be included if the applicant has them.

The lab encourages applicants to express interest in freshwater ecosystems, plankton communities and harmful algal blooms.

Full position details and application instructions are available in the official advertisement.

More information about the lab can be found on the Wilson Lab website.

Questions about the positions can be directed to Alan Wilson at wilson@auburn.edu.

Find out more details about the Graduate Research Assistantship in Aquatic Ecology and Harmful Algal Blooms (Master's) and Graduate Research Assistantship in Aquatic Ecology and Harmful Algal Blooms (PhD)

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