The University of Florida (UF) is recruiting highly motivated graduate applicants for a fully funded, two-year Master of Science (M.S.) research assistantship focused on marine ornamental aquaculture. This position is ideal for individuals interested in marine fish production, sustainable breeding technologies, and the commercial development of ornamental species.
Research Background and Sector Value
Marine ornamental aquaculture is a fast-growing sector of the blue economy. Florida is the leading producer of ornamental aquatic species in the United States, generating an estimated farm-gate value of $172 million in 2021. However, the industry faces significant challenges including international imports, regulatory compliance, and changing market dynamics. The selected student will investigate critical research gaps in captive reproduction, larval rearing protocols, and production-scale aquaculture techniques to directly support and stabilize Florida’s growers.
Research Environment: UF Tropical Aquaculture Laboratory (TAL)
The research assistantship will be based at the University of Florida’s Tropical Aquaculture Laboratory (TAL) in Ruskin, Florida. This premier facility is equipped with:
- Five operational greenhouses
- Fifty earthen experimental ponds
- A climate-controlled marine hatchery
- A state-of-the-art aquatic diagnostic and veterinary health laboratory
The graduate degree will be awarded through the Program in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, situated within the School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences at UF.
Applicant Qualifications
Required:
- A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in biology, marine science, zoology, aquaculture, or a closely related biological field.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Highly Desired:
- Hands-on research experience in aquatic biology or general aquaculture.
- Familiarity with marine ornamental fish husbandry or marine recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS).
- Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
Stipend, Tuition and Benefits
The funded assistantship package includes:
- An annual stipend for living expenses
- Full tuition remission
- Comprehensive health insurance via GatorGradCare
Funding is structured to support the graduate student for the entire two-year program duration, subject to satisfactory academic progress.
Application Instructions
Interested candidates must submit their application documents as a single combined PDF or Word document to both:
- Dr. Matthew DiMaggio (mdimaggi@ufl.edu)
- Dr. Casey Murray (casey.murray@ufl.edu)
Application Deadline: January 4, 2026.
Required Materials:
- A cover letter detailing your research interest, experience, qualifications, and professional goals.
- A current Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Unofficial academic transcripts.
- Contact information for three professional references.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to submit a formal application to UF’s graduate program by January 31, 2026. For more details on the laboratory, visit the Tropical Aquaculture Laboratory website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of this graduate assistantship?
The position is funded for two years of study, corresponding to the completion of a Master of Science (M.S.) degree.
Are international students eligible to apply?
Yes, the position is open to both domestic and international applicants who meet the graduate admission standards of the University of Florida.
Which fish species are used in the research?
The research focuses on economically valuable marine ornamental fish species that are popular in Florida’s aquaculture industry.