The University of Maine is offering an outstanding, fully funded graduate assistantship opportunity for international students seeking to pursue advanced research degrees in the United States.
This highly competitive program provides full tuition coverage, health insurance, and an annual living stipend, making it one of the most attractive pathways for students aiming for a research-focused postgraduate career in 2026.
If you are passionate about fisheries science, wildlife conservation, ecology, or environmental research, this scholarship offers an excellent chance to study under renowned experts at a top U.S. research institution.
University of Maine Scholarship 2026 – Summary Table
| Scholarship Name | University of Maine Fully Funded Graduate Assistantship 2026 |
| Host Country | United States |
| Institution | University of Maine, Orono |
| Study Level | Postgraduate (Master’s & PhD – primarily PhD assistantships) |
| Eligible Countries | All international and domestic applicants |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Annual Stipend | $30,000 per year |
| Additional Benefits | Full tuition waiver, health insurance |
| Program Duration | Up to 4.5 years (renewable annually) |
| Deadline | December 31, 2025 |
University of Maine Scholarship 2026 – Full Details
The University of Maine, through the research group led by Dr. Joseph Zydlewski and co-advisor Dr. Christina Murphy, is recruiting graduate research assistants for fully funded doctoral studies beginning in 2026.
The scholarship is designed for motivated and research-driven students with strong backgrounds in biology, fisheries science, ecology, or related fields. The selected candidates will participate in ongoing research projects focused on aquatic ecosystems, cold-water species, and environmental impacts in Maine.
Research Focus Areas
- Migration Delays in Atlantic Salmon
This project aims to understand how upstream migration delays affect the survival and reproductive success of adult Atlantic salmon. Students will engage in fieldwork, data modeling, and collaborative research to support conservation efforts for this endangered species.
- Thermal Environments of Cold-Water Fish Species
The second major project explores the temperature patterns and environmental stressors affecting species such as brook trout and Atlantic salmon. Students will work closely with research teams to study thermal habitats, climate impacts, and conservation strategies.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the University of Maine Fully Funded Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a Master’s degree (M.S.) in Biology or a related discipline
Equivalent qualifications with a strong foundation in research will also be considered. - Demonstrated quantitative and analytical skills
Experience with data analysis, modeling, field research, or statistics is an advantage. - GPA of 3.2 or higher (preferred)
- Strong interest in fisheries science, ecology, and environmental research
- Excellent communication skills for collaborative work and research presentations.
- Willingness to learn and work within a supportive research community.
Scholarship Benefits & Duration
Successful candidates will receive a fully funded graduate assistantship, which includes:
Funding Package
- $30,000 annual stipend
- Health insurance coverage valued at approximately $3,157
- Full tuition support estimated at $7,241 annually
Duration
Funding is renewable annually for up to 4.5 years, covering the full duration of a PhD program.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
- Cover Letter explaining research interest and motivation
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic Transcript (unofficial copies accepted for initial review)
- Reference Letters
- GRE Scores (optional)
How to Apply – University of Maine Scholarships 2026
Follow the steps below to successfully apply:
- Prepare all required application documents (Cover letter, CV, transcripts, references, etc.).
- Email your application to Dr. Joseph Zydlewski at josephz@maine.edu.
- Use the appropriate email subject line based on your preferred research project:
- “Atlantic Salmon” — for the migration delays project
- “Thermal” — for the thermal environment project
- Submit applications before the review begins on December 31, 2025.
- Successful candidates may begin the program by May 1, 2026, or as agreed.
Application Links
Deadline: December 31, 2025
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