The Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation at Virginia Tech is offering a fully funded Master of Science (M.S.) Graduate Research Assistantship in Conservation Genomics and Genetic Rescue starting in Fall 2026. This position provides comprehensive hands-on training in molecular ecology, population genetics, and active wildlife conservation management.
This is a unique opportunity for students who wish to pursue a career in wildlife biology, conservation genomics, or environmental sciences, combining intensive laboratory analysis with conservation fieldwork in California.
Project & Research Focus
The selected candidate will join the Cooper Lab at Virginia Tech to contribute to an ongoing conservation program focused on the endangered California tiger salamander (Ambystoma californiense) in Santa Barbara County. The research centers on assessing the effectiveness of genetic rescue and headstarting strategies to combat inbreeding and habitat fragmentation.
As an M.S. researcher, you will:
- Conduct winter fieldwork in California to sample populations.
- Perform laboratory work including DNA extraction, PCR, and sequencing library preparation.
- Analyze genetic diversity, relatedness, and parentage using bioinformatic and statistical tools.
- Collaborate closely with state and federal conservation agencies.
Funding and Benefits
This graduate research assistantship is fully funded for two years (subject to satisfactory progress), providing exceptional financial support:
- Annual Salary: $33,600 (approximately $2,800/month)
- Tuition: Full tuition waiver
- Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance through Virginia Tech
Qualifications
Required:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Ecology, Fisheries/Wildlife Science, Environmental Science, or a related field.
- A strong interest in molecular ecology and conservation biology.
- Good communication skills and the ability to work in remote field settings.
Preferred:
- Experience in field sampling or molecular laboratory techniques.
- Basic familiarity with programming tools like R or Python.
- A desire to publish scientific research in peer-reviewed journals.
Application Guidelines
Applicants should compile the following documents into a single PDF file:
- A cover letter describing your research interest and career goals.
- A current Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Contact information for 2–3 academic or professional references.
- Unofficial transcripts.
Email the PDF to Dr. Robert Cooper at robertcooper@vt.edu with the subject format: MS Application – eDNA – Fall 2026 – [Your Last Name].
Priority review begins on January 9, 2026. Early submission is highly encouraged.
For more information on the lab and department, please visit: Cooper Lab – Virginia Tech.