Are you passionate about aquatic science, freshwater ecosystems, and fisheries management? Take the next step in your academic journey with a fully funded MSc assistantship in Wildlife and Fisheries Biology at Clemson University, South Carolina. This graduate research opportunity focuses on aquatic ecology, fish community analysis, and reservoir management in the beautiful southern Blue Ridge Mountains.
📍 Program Highlights
- University: Clemson University – Department of Forestry & Environmental Conservation
- Location: Clemson, South Carolina, USA
- Degree: M.S. in Wildlife and Fisheries Biology
- Stipend: Starting at $22,000 per year
- Start Date: After August 20, 2025
- Application Deadline: Review begins June 9, 2025 – open until filled
- Workload: Full-time (up to 40 hours/week)
🐟 Research Focus: Aquatic Ecosystem Monitoring & Fisheries Management
This assistantship offers hands-on experience in reservoir ecology, with a strong focus on ecological monitoring, fish population assessments, habitat evaluation, and aquatic vegetation surveys. Graduate students will play a key role in shaping future management strategies for warm- and cool-water fisheries across high-elevation reservoirs.
🔍 Key Responsibilities
- Lead field teams for fish and habitat surveys
- Conduct water quality testing and vegetation assessments
- Analyze ecological data using tools like R and GIS
- Prepare research proposals, thesis documents, and outreach materials
- Collaborate with stakeholders to design science-driven fisheries management plans
✅ Eligibility Criteria
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in fisheries science, aquatic ecology, biology, or a related field
- Strong skills in scientific writing, verbal communication, and data analysis
- Valid U.S. driver’s license
Preferred Skills
- Field experience in reservoir or aquatic systems
- Knowledge of fish sampling (e.g., electrofishing, netting)
- Proficiency in habitat surveys and water quality analysis
- Experience with R programming, GIS mapping, or ecological modeling
- Background in stakeholder communication and scientific publications
🏞️ Why Choose Clemson University?
Clemson University is a Carnegie R1 Research Institution, recognized for excellence in environmental science and biological research. You’ll benefit from advanced coursework on-campus, while conducting impactful fieldwork in scenic mountain lakes just minutes away.
📬 How to Apply
Submit one PDF file containing:
- A cover letter describing your interests and career goals
- Your curriculum vitae (CV) with three references
- Unofficial academic transcripts
📧 Email your application to:
Dr. Troy Farmer
✉️ tmfarme@clemson.edu
Subject line: MS application: mountain lakes fish management
Note: GRE scores are not required but can be submitted optionally.
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