Three fully funded PhD opportunities are available at universities in the United States for students interested in environmental science, biological research and fisheries. All three scholarships have an application deadline of September 30, 2026.
Louisiana State University (LSU), the University of North Texas (UNT), and the University of Vermont are offering these research-based opportunities, with annual financial support of up to $37,000.
LSU PhD Assistantship
Louisiana State University is offering a PhD assistantship in wetland and aquatic biogeochemistry. The research will focus on phosphorus dynamics and harmful algal blooms in the Lake Pontchartrain Estuary and nearby waterways.
The position offers a starting annual stipend of $31,000, along with coverage of 75% of health insurance premiums. The program is expected to begin after January 1, 2027. Applicants should have or be close to completing a relevant master’s degree, with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
University of North Texas Studentship
The University of North Texas is offering a graduate research opportunity focused on the impact of ranch management practices on insect pollinators.
The selected student will conduct field research across North Texas, studying pollinators, plants, soil microbes and habitat quality. The studentship provides an annual salary of $26,400 to $28,320, along with tuition and health-related support based on the student’s graduate level.
Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, entomology or a related field, with a minimum GPA of 3.5.
University of Vermont PhD Assistantship
The University of Vermont is offering a fully funded graduate assistantship in the human dimensions of fisheries through its Bernos F.I.S.H. Lab.
The research will examine interactions between people, fish and ecosystems in Lake Champlain. Students may work on areas including fishing behavior, stakeholder preferences, fisheries management, social networks and fish movement.
The assistantship provides $37,000 per year, along with tuition support and a living allowance. The position is scheduled to begin in January 2027. Applicants should have an academic background in fisheries science, ecology, environmental studies, geography, sociology, anthropology, natural resources, data science or a related field.
Application Deadline
The three opportunities provide different research areas and funding packages, but all have the same application deadline of September 30, 2026.
Applicants should review the requirements of their selected university and prepare documents such as academic transcripts, degree certificates, CVs, statements of interest and recommendation letters. Some positions may also require applicants to contact a research supervisor before applying.
Interested students should submit their applications and all required documents before the September 30 deadline.
