MS Graduate Research Assistantship in Fisheries Ecology and Management | Eastern Illinois University (EIU) 

MS Graduate Research Assistantship in Fisheries Ecology and Management: Overview

The Center for Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences at Eastern Illinois University (EIU) invites applications for up to four (4) MS Graduate Research Assistantship positions beginning Spring or Summer 2026. This opportunity offers a hands-on research experience in fisheries ecology and management, focusing on aquatic ecosystems, invasive species, and fish community dynamics.

The assistantship includes a tuition waiver and a monthly stipend of $1,600, making it an excellent opportunity for students aiming to develop professional expertise in aquatic sciences.

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Hold a Bachelor’s degree (minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher).

• Demonstrate the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Be physically able to lift up to 40 pounds and work in varied weather conditions.

• (Preferred) Have previous fisheries field or laboratory experience.

Benefits

• Full tuition waiver.

• Monthly stipend of $1,600.

• Hands-on experience in field sampling, lab analysis, data interpretation, and manuscript writing.

• Opportunities to present at scientific conferences and network with professionals in fisheries and aquatic ecology.

• Collaboration with an experienced research community across Illinois.

Fellowship/Program Components

Graduate assistants will conduct thesis research in one of the following areas:

1. Wabash River Fish Community Assessment

2. Channel Catfish Demographics and Spawning Box Evaluation in Small Impoundments

3. Invasive Carp Reproduction and Recruitment Dynamics in the Wabash River

4. Invasive Carp Movement Ecology

Students will also participate in other ongoing research projects within the Center, fostering collaboration and multidisciplinary growth.

Application Requirements

To apply, candidates should prepare:

• A cover letter outlining research interests and relevant experience.

• CV/Resume.

• Academic transcripts (official or unofficial).

• Contact information for references.

Selection Criteria

• Academic merit (GPA and prior coursework).

• Research potential and interest alignment with EIU projects.

• Relevant field or laboratory experience (preferred).

• Communication and teamwork skills.

Application Process

1. Visit the EIU Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences webpage.

2. Review the graduate assistantship details.

3. Prepare and submit the required documents before the internal review date.

4. Shortlisted applicants may be invited for an interview or follow-up communication.

Important Dates

• Published: October 6, 2025

• Application Review Begins: November 25, 2025

• Final Deadline: August 19, 2026

• Program Start: Between January 7, 2026, and August 19, 2026

• Location: 600 Lincoln Ave, Charleston, Illinois, USA

For more information and application: 

Visit the official website of the MS Graduate Research Assistantship in Fisheries Ecology and Management