Fully Funded PhD Graduate Research Assistantship in Freshwater Mussel Ecology at Louisiana State University (2027)
If you’re seeking a fully funded Ph.D. in freshwater ecology, fisheries, conservation biology, or natural resource management, Louisiana State University (LSU) is accepting applications for a Graduate Research Assistantship in the School of Renewable Natural Resources.
This funded doctoral opportunity focuses on understanding how freshwater mussels respond to environmental stressors such as rising water temperatures and sedimentation, with the goal of improving conservation and management strategies for these ecologically important species. The position includes an annual stipend of $30,667, full tuition coverage for four years, graduate fee support, and 75% graduate student health insurance. Applications begin review on August 31, 2026, and the successful candidate may begin as early as January 2027.
PhD Assistantship Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| University | Louisiana State University (LSU) |
| Department | School of Renewable Natural Resources |
| Position | Graduate Research Assistant (Ph.D.) |
| Research Area | Freshwater Mussel Ecology, Conservation Biology, Physiological Ecology |
| Location | Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA |
| Application Review Begins | August 31, 2026 |
| Earliest Start Date | After January 1, 2027 |
| Expected Funding Period | Through at least December 31, 2030 |
| Annual Stipend | $30,667 |
| Assistantship | Half-Time (20 Hours/Week) |
| Tuition | Full Tuition for 4 Years |
| Graduate Fees | Covered |
| Health Insurance | 75% Graduate Student Coverage |
| Minimum Education | Bachelor’s Degree |
About the Research Project
Freshwater mussels are among the world’s most threatened aquatic organisms, and understanding how they respond to environmental change is critical for conserving river ecosystems.
This Ph.D. project investigates how water temperature and sedimentation influence the morphology, physiology, and overall fitness of two freshwater mussel species.
The research aims to provide new scientific insights that can guide conservation planning and freshwater resource management across contemporary river systems.
The project is supervised by Dr. Garrett Hopper, with additional collaboration from Dr. Romain Lavaud, providing students with interdisciplinary training in ecology, physiology, and ecological modeling.
Research Objectives
The selected Ph.D. student will contribute to research examining:
- Morphological responses to environmental stress
- Physiological plasticity in freshwater mussels
- Effects of water temperature changes
- Sedimentation impacts on aquatic organisms
- Growth and age estimation
- Feeding structure variation
- Fitness consequences of environmental change
- Conservation strategies for freshwater mussels
The project combines field ecology, laboratory research, quantitative analysis, and ecological theory.
Research Activities
Throughout the project, the graduate researcher will participate in a wide range of scientific activities, including:
Field Research
- Freshwater mussel surveys
- River habitat assessments
- Collection of ecological field data
- Long-term environmental monitoring
Laboratory and Data Analysis
- Mussel age and growth analysis
- Morphological measurements
- Physiological assessments
- Data management
- Statistical analysis
- Scientific literature reviews
Ecological Modeling
The student will work with Dynamic Energy Budget (DEB) theory to integrate physiological and fitness data into bioenergetic models that improve understanding of freshwater mussel adaptation under changing environmental conditions.
This interdisciplinary experience is highly valuable for careers in aquatic ecology and environmental science.
Collaboration Opportunities
The project encourages close collaboration with:
- Louisiana State University researchers
- State conservation agencies
- Academic scientists
- Freshwater ecology experts
- Fisheries and wildlife professionals
Students will gain experience working within multidisciplinary research teams while contributing to conservation-focused science.
Funding and Benefits
The assistantship provides an excellent financial package for doctoral students.
Benefits include:
- $30,667 annual stipend
- Full tuition coverage for four years
- Graduate fee coverage
- 75% graduate student health insurance
- Year-round funding
- Research mentoring
- Professional development opportunities
- Collaborative research experience
This support allows students to focus on research while building a strong academic foundation.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should have:
- A bachelor’s degree in:
- Natural Resource Ecology and Management
- Biology
- Fisheries
- Wildlife Management
- Environmental Science
- Or a closely related field
- Experience with:
- Data management
- Scientific programming
- Collaborative research
Additional requirements include:
- Ability to swim confidently
- Ability to skin dive using a mask, snorkel, and weight belt
- Willingness to work in demanding outdoor environments
- Ability to obtain a valid U.S. driver’s license within 60 days of employment
- Availability for overnight travel
Applicants must also have either:
- A minimum 3.0 cumulative undergraduate GPA, or
- A 3.5 GPA during the final 60 undergraduate credit hours
GRE scores are preferred but not required.
Preferred Qualifications
Competitive applicants may also have experience in:
- Freshwater mussel ecology
- Scientific programming
- Fisheries research
- Presenting or publishing scientific papers
- Open Water SCUBA certification
- Freshwater mussel identification
- Watercraft operation
- Aquatic field research
Although these qualifications strengthen an application, candidates meeting the minimum requirements are encouraged to apply.
Fieldwork Expectations
Because this project involves extensive river research, students should be prepared for physically demanding fieldwork.
Conditions may include:
- High temperatures
- Cold weather
- Rain
- Strong winds
- Rough water
- Low underwater visibility
- Biting insects
- Snakes
- Alligators
Applicants should enjoy outdoor ecological research and be comfortable working in challenging natural environments. This assistantship offers exceptional preparation for careers in freshwater ecology, fisheries science, conservation biology, and aquatic resource management.
Highlights include:
- Fully funded four-year Ph.D. support
- Competitive annual stipend
- Full tuition and graduate fee coverage
- 75% health insurance support
- Hands-on field and laboratory research
- Training in ecological modeling and Dynamic Energy Budget theory
- Collaboration with leading freshwater scientists
- Strong emphasis on conservation and applied ecological research
For students interested in protecting freshwater biodiversity while developing advanced research skills, this opportunity provides an outstanding foundation for future careers in academia, government, and environmental consulting.
Required Application Materials
Interested applicants should email the following documents to Dr. Garrett Hopper:
- Cover Letter describing:
- Interest in the project
- Relevant qualifications
- Research experience
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
- Contact information for at least two academic or professional references
- Unofficial transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
Please email the following: 1) cover letter describing interest in the project and credentials; 2) a CV or resume with no less than two academic and/or professional references; and 3) unofficial transcripts with courses from all institutions of higher education attended to Dr. Garrett Hopper (ghopper@agcenter@lsu.edu). Formal application to LSU is contingent upon an offer. For more information about the graduate programs: https://www.lsu.edu/rnr/graduate/index.php
For more information contact: Dr. Garrett Hopper, 227 Renewable Natural Resources Building, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803 Email: ghopper@agcenter.lsu.edu https://garretthopper.wixsite.com/streamecology Applications begin being reviewed on August 31, 2026, and the position will remain open until filled.
Contact Information
For questions or to submit application materials, contact:
- Dr. Garrett Hopper
- School of Renewable Natural Resources
- Louisiana State University
- Baton Rouge, Louisiana
- Email: ghopper@agcenter.lsu.edu
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Position Published | July 21, 2026 |
| Application Review Begins | August 31, 2026 |
| Earliest Start Date | After January 1, 2027 |
| Funding Period | Through at least December 31, 2030 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this a fully funded Ph.D. assistantship?
Yes. The position includes a $30,667 annual stipend, full tuition for four years, graduate fee coverage, and 75% graduate student health insurance.
What is the focus of the research?
The project investigates how freshwater mussels respond to environmental stressors such as water temperature changes and sedimentation, with the goal of improving conservation and management strategies.
Do I need a master’s degree to apply?
No. A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is the minimum requirement. Applicants with a master’s degree are also encouraged to apply.
Is prior experience with freshwater mussels required?
No. Previous experience working with freshwater mussels is preferred but not required. Strong applicants should have relevant ecological or fisheries research experience and be willing to learn specialized field techniques.
Is SCUBA certification required?
No. Open Water SCUBA certification is desirable but not required. However, applicants must be able to swim and perform skin diving using a mask, snorkel, and weight belt.
Will there be extensive fieldwork?
Yes. The research includes regular field surveys in rivers and streams, often under physically demanding outdoor conditions and with overnight travel when necessary.
What application materials are required?
Applicants should submit a cover letter, CV or resume, unofficial transcripts, and contact information for at least two academic or professional references.
When will applications be reviewed?
Application review begins on August 31, 2026, and the position will remain open until a qualified candidate is selected. Early applications are strongly encouraged.
What career opportunities does this Ph.D. prepare students for?
Graduates will be well prepared for careers in freshwater ecology, fisheries biology, aquatic conservation, environmental consulting, government agencies, academic research, and natural resource management.
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