The Master’s Research Assistantship in Landscape Use by Wildlife Post-Wildfire is a funded Master of Science (M.S.) research opportunity offered by the Department of Natural Resources Management at Texas Tech University, USA. The assistantship supports graduate research that investigates how wildlife responds to landscapes affected by wildfire, with a particular focus on pronghorn antelope, mule deer, post-wildfire habitats, and wildlife–livestock interactions. Successful applicants enroll in the M.S. program in Wildlife, Aquatic, and Wildlands Science and Management while conducting research under the supervision of faculty in the Department of Natural Resources Management. Moreover, the project provides hands-on research experience that contributes to wildlife conservation and ecosystem management.
Background and Purpose
The project investigates how wildfire severity influences wildlife habitat use and vegetation recovery across Texas rangelands. Researchers monitor wildlife populations using cellular camera traps, examine interactions between virtually fenced livestock and wildlife, and evaluate changes in plant communities through field surveys and remote sensing techniques. Furthermore, the project combines wildlife biology, field ecology, habitat assessment, geospatial analysis, and conservation science to improve understanding of ecosystem recovery after wildfire. The research also generates practical knowledge that supports sustainable wildlife management and habitat restoration. As a result, the project helps land managers and conservation agencies make informed decisions for protecting wildlife and restoring natural ecosystems.
Scholarship Benefits
The assistantship provides an annual stipend starting at USD 20,000 together with full tuition support and employee fringe benefits. In addition, students receive extensive training in wildlife monitoring, habitat assessment, remote sensing, geographic information systems (GIS), ecological field methods, and research project management. They also collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams while presenting their findings at scientific conferences and publishing in peer-reviewed journals. Consequently, recipients develop strong research, technical, and professional skills throughout their graduate studies.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in wildlife science, ecology, natural resources, biology, environmental science, or a related discipline. They must also have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills. Furthermore, applicants should be capable of performing physically demanding fieldwork in challenging outdoor environments and be willing to travel regularly to multiple research sites. Previous research or field experience in wildlife ecology or conservation will strengthen an application.
Scholarship Application Process
Applicants should prepare all required application materials and submit them before the priority deadline of July 31, 2026, for full consideration. Applications will continue to be reviewed until the position is filled. Furthermore, successful applicants must satisfy the admission requirements for the M.S. program at Texas Tech University. Therefore, candidates should prepare a strong application that demonstrates their academic background, field experience, and interest in wildlife ecology and conservation research.
Opportunities for Scholars
The assistantship provides an outstanding opportunity to conduct applied wildlife research with direct conservation and land management applications. Moreover, students gain practical experience in ecological fieldwork, wildlife monitoring, remote sensing, GIS, data analysis, and scientific communication while working with experienced researchers. Their research contributes to improving post-wildfire habitat management and wildlife conservation across rangeland ecosystems. Consequently, graduates are well prepared for careers in wildlife conservation, ecological consulting, government agencies, research institutions, natural resource management, and academia.