ELIGIBILITY:

They are recruiting a Ph.D. student interested in measuring, modeling, and forecasting how reservoir water quality is changing. Research areas could include phytoplankton dynamics and/or carbon biogeochemistry. This project involves field sampling with other graduate students and undergraduate assistants as part of a long-term freshwater monitoring program and co-developing water quality models and forecasts with managers and the public to guide decision-making. 

Interested students should send an email letter of inquiry to Cayelan (cayelan @ vt.edu). Please include: 1) an overview of your research interests, 2) a short description of why you are interested in joining our specific lab, 3) your C.V. or résumé, 4) an unofficial transcript, and 5) contact info for three references. Please feel free to contact Cayelan with questions about the application process, graduate school at Virginia Tech, or potential research opportunities. 

Successful applicants will be excited to dig into the mysteries of lake and reservoir water quality, have research and scientific writing experience through previous employment and/or education, enjoy liaising with managers and the public, and be excited to join a collaborative team. Candidates who are enthusiastic about expanding their quantitative skillset are especially encouraged to apply.

BENEFIT:

The position is supported by National Science Foundation grants and will be funded on a combination of research and teaching assistantships, which include a competitive stipend, tuition waiver, and health insurance benefits. Our Ph.D. program guarantees five years of funding, including summers. 

Salary: starting at $34,000 per year

Education Required: Bachelors

Experience Required: at least 2 years