University of Illinois Graduate Assistantships in Fisheries Conservation

The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (NRES) at the University of Illinois is seeking highly motivated PhD or MS students to join its research team to quantify the impacts of different stressors on fish populations. 

The project anticipates graduate opportunities for 1-2 different research projects related to (1) fish passage around lock and dam structures in large rivers, (2) movement ecology of fishes in Lake Michigan, and (3) linking landscape use with the abundance of river fishes. 

Work will consist of both laboratory experiments and field studies, and will involve both behavioral and physiological responses.  Projects will be conducted in collaboration with several state, federal and industry partners.  Results will inform policy on conservation practices to enhance and protect freshwater fisheries.

To be considered for the University of Illinois Scholarship, you must satisfy the following requirements:

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Experience with fish handling, fish care in a laboratory setting, or fisheries techniques in a field setting. 

• Excellent writing and verbal communication skills, a strong work ethic, and the ability to work independently and contribute to a research team. 

Desired Experience: 

• A BS degree in biology, ecology, fisheries, or other related discipline (MS required for PhD applicants). 

• Demonstrated ability to conduct research independently.  Research productivity, experience conducting statistical analyses, and experience communicating scientific findings through oral and written communication are important. 

• Experience with fish telemetry, as well as planning and coordinating field teams, would be an asset. 

• Valid driver’s license is required.

The fully funded graduate assistantship covers;

• tuition fees

• a living stipend of $29,000 to $31,000 per year

• health insurance

To apply for the University of Illinois Graduate Assistantship, interested and qualified candidates should;

• 1

  Click the green button below to go to the program website.

• 2

  If interested, please send an email to Dr. Cory Suski (suski@illinois.edu) by November 2, 2026, with the following: CV, transcripts (unofficial are sufficient), contact information for three references, and a brief cover letter outlining relevant experience and how our lab’s projects and opportunities align with your long-term career goals.

• 3

  To learn more about our current work, please visit https://fishlab.nres.illinois.edu/

• 4

  The start date will be Fall 2027.