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Louisiana State University Agricultural Center

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PhD Graduate Research Assistantship in Freshwater Mussel Morphological and Physiological Responses to Multiple Stressors Louisiana State University Agricultural Center in United States

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Ecology

Funding

Full funding available

Deadline

Aug 31, 2026

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Country

United States

University

Louisiana State University Agricultural Center

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Keywords

Ecology
Environmental Science
Agriculture
Biology
Earth Science
Management
Preservation
Statistics

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About this position

Louisiana State University Agricultural Center is seeking a PhD graduate research assistant in the School of Renewable Natural Resources for a project on freshwater mussel morphological and physiological responses to multiple stressors.

The research focuses on how two freshwater mussel species respond to changes in water temperature and sedimentation regimes to support conservation and management. The student will work with Dr. Garrett Hopper and Dr. Romain Lavaud on field surveys, mussel age and growth estimates, morphological variation in feeding structures, and integration of mussel fitness and physiological plasticity into bioenergetic modeling and Dynamic Energy Budget theory.

This is a half-time assistantship (20 hours/week) for 12 months with an annual stipend of $30,667, full tuition coverage for 4 years, graduate fee coverage, and 75% graduate student health care.

Minimum requirements include a BS in natural resource ecology and management, biology, fisheries or wildlife management, or a related field; experience with data management and programming; ability to work independently and collaboratively; and willingness to work in challenging outdoor conditions. Preferred qualifications include an MS in a related field, freshwater mussel experience, scientific presentation/publication experience, open-water SCUBA certification, mussel surveying/identification experience, and watercraft operation experience. A 3.0 undergraduate GPA overall or 3.5 in the last 60 semester hours is required; GRE scores are preferred but not required; and a valid U.S. driver’s license is required or must be obtainable within 60 days of start.

To apply, email a cover letter, CV/resume with at least two references, and unofficial transcripts to Dr. Garrett Hopper. Review of applications begins August 31, 2026, and the position will remain open until a qualified applicant is selected.

Funding details

Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.

How to apply

Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.

More information can be found here

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