If you’re looking for a fully funded graduate opportunity in the United States, the Graduate Research Assistantship at McNeese State University is an excellent option to consider. This opportunity offers a $20,000 annual salary, a tuition waiver, and hands-on research experience in wildlife and conservation biology.
Open to students with a background in biology or related fields, this assistantship provides both academic advancement and paid research experience.
Quick Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Type | Graduate Research Assistantship |
| Host Institution | McNeese State University |
| Location | Lake Charles, Louisiana, USA |
| Funding | $20,000 per year + Half Tuition Waiver |
| Application Deadline | May 31, 2026 |
| Start Date | August 2026 |
| End Date | December 2028 |
| Degree Level | Master’s (M.S.) |
| Field | Wildlife Science / Biology / Conservation |
| Work Hours | At least 40 hours per week |
About the Graduate Research Assistantship
This Graduate Research Assistantship at McNeese State University is designed for students pursuing a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in fields related to wildlife science and conservation.
The selected candidate will work on a research project titled:
“Response of Pond Breeding Amphibians to Habitat Restoration”
This project focuses on understanding how amphibian communities respond to habitat management in a mixed-use park in Southwest Louisiana.
Funding and Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- $20,000 annual stipend
- Half tuition waiver
- Hands-on field and research experience
- Opportunity to work with experienced researchers
- Career development in conservation biology and ecology
This assistantship runs for approximately 2.5 years, making it a strong, long-term funded graduate opportunity.
Research Responsibilities
As a graduate research assistant, you will be actively involved in:
- Monitoring amphibian populations
- Conducting fieldwork, including:
- Trapping
- Call surveys
- Use of cover object arrays
- Collecting and analysing ecological data
- Working in outdoor conditions, including:
- Nighttime surveys
- Light rain environments
This role is ideal for students who enjoy hands-on environmental research.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for this assistantship, you must meet the following criteria:
Academic Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in:
- Wildlife Science
- Biology
- Natural Resource Conservation
- Or a closely related field
Skills and Experience
- Strong work ethic and self-motivation
- Ability to work in challenging field conditions (heat, humidity, insects)
- Interest in:
- Herpetology (study of amphibians and reptiles)
- Conservation biology
- Quantitative research methods
Preferred (Not Required)
- Experience identifying frogs and toads (visual and vocal)
- Prior fieldwork experience
Required Application Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit a single PDF file containing:
- Cover letter (including work experience and career goals)
- Resume or CV
- Academic transcripts (unofficial, initially accepted)
- GRE scores (unofficially accepted)
- Contact details of 3 references
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply:
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Combine all required materials into one PDF.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Send your application via email to:
📧 Dr. Sarah J. Baker
Email: sbaker17@mcneese.edu
Step 3: Wait for Review
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
For more details, visit the official website of McNeese State University at https://www.mcneese.edu/
Application Deadline
Final Deadline: May 31, 2026
However, since applications are reviewed continuously, early submission is strongly recommended.
FAQs
1. Is this a scholarship or an internship?
No. This is a Graduate Research Assistantship, which combines study, research, and salary.
2. Can international students apply?
Yes, international applicants may be eligible, but they should confirm admission requirements with McNeese State University.
3. Is GRE required?
GRE scores are requested, but unofficial scores are acceptable at the initial stage.
4. How long does the program last?
Approximately 2.5 years (August 2026 to December 2028).
5. What is the main research focus?
The project focuses on amphibian communities and habitat restoration.
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