The PhD Graduate Research Assistantship at North Carolina State University (NCSU) offers fully funded doctoral research training focused on using environmental DNA (eDNA) and occupancy modelling to support conservation of imperiled aquatic species. Funded through the NC Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit and partnering labs, this assistantship funds your research while helping you earn your PhD with practical experience in field ecology, quantitative modelling, and molecular lab methods.

About the PhD Graduate Research Assistantship

NCSU seeks a PhD student to investigate the distribution and recovery of Carolina Madtom and Neuse River Waterdog populations in North Carolina’s Tar–Neuse river systems. Your research will integrate environmental DNA sampling, occupancy modelling, and habitat assessment to enhance conservation strategies for these imperiled species. This position is a graduate research assistantship, meaning you will be paid while you complete your PhD, and the appointment includes tuition coverage and benefits through NCSU’s assistantship system.

Why Choose The PhD Graduate Research Assistantship?

This assistantship places you at the intersection of cutting‑edge conservation science and quantitative ecology. You will gain hands‑on experience with field sampling, molecular ecology methods, and advanced data analysis — skills that are highly marketable in academic research, government agencies, and environmental consulting. You will work under mentorship from faculty and cooperators from both the USGS NC Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit and NCSU labs, and you’ll have opportunities to co‑author research publications and collaborate with resource managers.

PhD Graduate Research Assistantship Summary

  • Host Country: United States of America
  • Host University: North Carolina State University
  • Scholarship/Position Name: PhD Graduate Research Assistantship — eDNA & Occupancy Modeling
  • Study Level: Doctoral (PhD)
  • Research Focus: eDNA monitoring, occupancy modelling, habitat assessment, imperiled species conservation
  • Application Deadline: 06 April 2026
  • Start Date: July–August 2026
  • Hours: Typically ~20–29 hrs/week
  • Stipend/Salary: Approx. $30,000 per year
  • Benefits: Health insurance, tuition waiver, computer, and professional travel funds
  • Eligibility: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree (Master’s preferred) in biology, ecology, conservation, or related field

Assistantship Benefits

  • Annual stipend (~$30,000) to support your living costs during doctoral study.
  • Tuition waiver provided through the assistantship funding structure.
  • Health insurance benefits are part of the NCSU graduate assistantship benefits.
  • Field and lab research support, including training in eDNA sampling methods and occupancy modelling.
  • Opportunities for professional travel and conference participation to present your research.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for this assistantship, you should:

  • Hold at least a Bachelor’s degree (Master’s preferred) in biology, ecology, natural resources, conservation science, genetics, or a related discipline.
  • Demonstrate interest and/or experience in field and laboratory research, quantitative analysis, and conservation biology.
  • Show strong analytical aptitude, including familiarity with quantitative methods (e.g., modelling, R statistical programming, or similar).
  • Be prepared to work in field conditions and collaborate with a multidisciplinary research team.

Required Application Materials

Prepare the following as part of your application:

  • Cover letter outlining your research interests, background, and career goals.
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) with educational history, research experience, and skills.
  • Unofficial transcripts from all post‑secondary institutions attended.
  • Contact information for three references (professional or academic).
  • Optional writing sample (e.g., published work or academic paper).

All materials should be submitted as a single merged PDF via the online application link provided by the lab or through email if instructed.

Application Process & Timeline

  1. Prepare your application documents (cover letter, CV, transcripts, references).
  2. Submit your application online or via the provided form link by 06 April 2026.
  3. Applications will be reviewed starting 20 March 2026, with decisions likely before mid‑April.
  4. If selected, you’ll receive an offer letter with onboarding instructions and assistantship details.
  5. Plan your arrival and enrolment at NCSU for Summer or Fall 2026, typically starting between July and August.