PhD Position in Ecosystem Modeling and Aquatic Habitat Analysis at University of Vermont University of Vermont in United States

The Henderson Lab at the USGS Vermont Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, located within the Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources at the University of Vermont, is offering a Ph.D. position in ecosystem modeling. This research opportunity centers on modeling water quality and habitat characteristics in Lake Champlain using aquatic drones for comprehensive water-quality and benthic-habitat surveys. The collected data will help elucidate the abundance, distribution, and connectivity of habitats critical to fish populations, as well as the relationship between habitat availability and fish distributions throughout the lake.

Key research areas include ecosystem modeling, aquatic drone technology, water quality analysis, habitat surveys, fisheries, and spatial analysis. The successful candidate will assist with aquatic drone surveys, develop spatially explicit water quality models, perform statistical analyses, and contribute to manuscript preparation. Applicants should hold an M.Sc. in biology, ecology, fisheries, marine science, or a related field, and demonstrate strong motivation for research in ecosystem modeling and aquatic environments.

The position offers an annual stipend of $33,000, full tuition coverage, and health insurance. The anticipated start date is August 2026, with the possibility of a summer start. To apply, candidates should submit a 1-page letter of interest, CV, and transcripts to Dr. Mark Henderson ([email protected]). Application review begins April 24, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled.