The Auburn University Scholarship offers fully funded graduate assistantship opportunities for Master’s and Doctoral candidates in biology and wildlife-related fields. Selected students will receive full tuition coverage along with a living stipend, providing support for their research and academic pursuits. The Simonis Lab is particularly focused on seasonal pathogen dynamics and bat health, with opportunities for field and laboratory research in Alabama.
Designation
Graduate Assistant (Master’s or Doctoral level)
Research Area
Seasonal pathogen dynamics and bat health in relation to ecological and conservation research.
Location
Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
Eligibility/Qualification
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in a biology or wildlife-related field.
- Strong motivation and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Capability to develop research questions and meet admission standards for the Auburn University Graduate School and the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment.
- Valid driver’s license (or ability to obtain one).
Desired Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in a biology or wildlife-related field (if applying for a PhD).
- Experience in wildlife and/or bat handling, biological sampling, bat surveys, bat identification, laboratory technical skills, and quantitative skills.
- Previous field, technical, and/or research experience.
Job Description
The graduate student will be responsible for:
- Conducting literature reviews and organizing datasets.
- Collecting field data and wildlife samples.
- Collecting laboratory data via molecular assays and microscopy.
- Analyzing and interpreting quantitative data using R.
- Collaborating with professionals from interdisciplinary backgrounds.
- Supervising undergraduates as necessary.
- Writing and publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals.
- Presenting findings at various conferences.
- Contributing to a supportive and inclusive atmosphere in the lab and university community.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should email the following materials as a single PDF document to Dr. Molly Simonis at molly.simonis@auburn.edu with the subject line “AU Potential Graduate Student”:
- A cover letter (2 pages max) outlining the wildlife sciences program of interest (PhD or MS), research interests, relevant experiences, and professional goals.
- Resume or CV.
- Contact information for 2-3 professional references.
Last Date to Apply
July 31, 2025 (applications are accepted on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged).
