The Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Conservation Biology (WFCB) at the University of Maine is offering a fully funded Ph.D. Graduate Assistantship in Atlantic Salmon Bioenergetics. This research project focuses on the migration bioenergetics of wild Atlantic salmon, studying energetic costs, passage delays, and ecological modeling.
Atlantic salmon populations are a key conservation priority. This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of fisheries management, physiological ecology, and conservation modeling, collaborating with state and federal agencies to support the recovery of this iconic species.
Research Focus & Project Scope
The successful candidate will study the energy expenditure and migration success of Atlantic salmon in river systems, especially focusing on how anthropogenic barriers and climate change affect their migration. Key research tasks include:
- Using **acoustic and radio telemetry** to track salmon migration and quantify travel times and passage delays.
- Developing and applying **bioenergetic and physiological models** to estimate energy consumption during upstream migration.
- Evaluating fish responses to dam removals, fishway structures, and changing river flow regimes.
- Collaborating with federal agencies (such as NOAA Fisheries and the Maine Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit) to integrate research findings into salmon conservation management.
Key Position Details & Funding
- Position: Graduate Research Assistantship (PhD)
- Host: Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Conservation Biology, University of Maine
- Advisors: Dr. Stephen Coghlan Jr. and Dr. Joseph Zydlewski
- Funding: Fully funded (includes a competitive graduate stipend, a full tuition waiver, and health insurance benefits).
- Application Review: Review of applications begins December 31, 2025.
Candidate Requirements
Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Fisheries Science, Wildlife Ecology, Marine Biology, Environmental Science, or a related quantitative discipline. Strong candidates should demonstrate:
- Experience or interest in fish ecology, telemetry, and physiology.
- Familiarity with quantitative data analysis and modeling (preferably in R or Python).
- Ability to conduct field research under challenging environmental conditions.
- Strong communication skills and a desire to work in collaborative, interdisciplinary teams.
How to Apply
Prospective candidates should contact the advisors directly to discuss their interest in the role. The application package should include a cover letter detailing research interest and relevant experience, a current CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for three professional references.
To learn more about the department and graduate application guidelines, please visit: UMaine Wildlife, Fisheries, and Conservation Biology Department.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this assistantship fully funded?
Yes, the position includes a monthly living stipend, full tuition coverage, and graduate student health insurance benefits.
2. Who are the primary partners in this research?
The project is run in close collaboration with the Maine Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and NOAA Fisheries (Atlantic Salmon Ecosystems Branch), providing strong professional networking opportunities.
3. Do I need prior experience with fish telemetry?
Prior experience with radio or acoustic telemetry is highly desirable but not mandatory. A willingness to learn field techniques and quantitative modeling is essential.