Location: Eastern Illinois University, Charleston, IL
Description: Two MS graduate research assistantships are available in the Center for Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences at Eastern Illinois University (EIU) with a potential start date in January of 2024.
One MS project will investigate Channel Catfish population dynamics and recruitment in Central Illinois impoundments. The research will include an outreach component involving local school groups. The second MS project will focus on early life stage dynamics and sources of propagule pressure of invasive carp (Hypophthalmichthys spp.) in tributaries of the Illinois River and assist with a similar project in the free-flowing Wabash River. This will involve field research to collect invasive carp larvae and eggs, as well as lab identification of larvae and testing of various water quality metrics. Candidates will gain a diversity of experiences in aquatic sciences by assisting with additional graduate student projects and working with fisheries professionals throughout the state at multiple levels (state fisheries biologists, university). The candidates must work well in both team settings and individually, as they will assist with field sampling, laboratory work, data analyses, and report/manuscript writing. The position comes with a tuition waiver and a $1600/month stipend. Previous fisheries experience including field and lab techniques is preferred. A bachelor’s degree and an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 are required. Must be able to lift 40 pounds and work in inclement weather conditions. Must have a valid driver’s license with at least 4 years of driving experience. Review of applications will begin August 18th 2023, and will continue to be accepted until the positions are filled.
EIU has a strong fisheries and aquatic ecology program with 8-10 graduate students and many undergraduates working through the Center on a wide range of research topics including sportfish management, impacts of invasive species and stream habitat restoration (EIU Center for Fisheries Website). We seek to foster a collective environment where we work together to achieve research goals, while allowing students to develop their own personal research interests and experience.
Please send a cover letter, a CV (including undergraduate GPA), undergraduate academic transcripts (unofficial okay), and a list of three professional references to:
Daniel Roth-Fisheries Researcher and Laboratory Manager
Office: 2114 – Life Science Annex
Phone: 217-581-3100
Email: drroth@eiu.edu
Faculty Advisors:
Dr. Eden L Effert-Fanta, Professor
Office: 3078 – Life Science
Email: eleffert@eiu.edu
Dr. Robert E Colombo, Professor
Office: 2112 – Life Science Annex
Email: recolombo@eiu.edu
