Southern Illinois University (SIU) in Carbondale, Illinois, USA, is offering two fully funded Master’s-level Graduate Research Assistantships in Forestry for international and domestic students beginning in Summer or Fall 2026.
These positions provide an excellent opportunity to pursue a Master of Science degree while gaining valuable research experience in wildlife ecology and forest management.
Position Details
- Location: Carbondale, Illinois, USA
- Start Dates:
- Project 1: 11 May 2026
- Project 2: 17 August 2026
- Stipend: Minimum $22,000 per year
- Additional Benefits: Full tuition waiver
Available Projects
Two M.S. Graduate Research Assistantships are available:
- Nightjar Research Project (starts May 2026) This project continues research on how forest management practices affect nightjars, specifically the eastern whip-poor-will and chuck-will’s-widow, in southern Illinois.
- Bottomland Forest Plantations Project (starts August 2026) This project investigates the stand dynamics of bottomland forest plantations following the loss of ash trees and the increased abundance of invasive species.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for these positions, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a B.S. degree in wildlife, ecology, biology, forestry, zoology, or a closely related field
- Demonstrate exceptional quantitative skills
- Have working knowledge of the R programming language and spatial software (such as QGIS or ArcGIS)
- Possess a valid driver’s licence and be able to conduct independent fieldwork in challenging conditions (including steep terrain, poison ivy, ticks, and venomous snakes)
- Show the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
- Possess strong oral and written communication skills
Benefits of the Southern Illinois University Scholarship
Successful candidates will receive:
- A competitive annual stipend of at least $22,000
- Full tuition waiver
- Opportunities to conduct hands-on field research and develop advanced analytical skills
- Support for professional development in forestry and wildlife sciences
How to Apply – Step by Step
Follow these steps to apply for the Southern Illinois University Graduate Research Assistantships 2026:
- Prepare a single PDF file containing all the required documents:
- A cover letter describing your past experiences and career goals
- Curriculum Vitae (CV), including your GPA and GRE scores if available
- Undergraduate transcripts (unofficial copies are acceptable)
- Contact information for three professional references
- Email the single PDF to Dr Eric Holzmueller at: [email protected]
- Use a clear subject line, for example: “Application for M.S. Graduate Research Assistantship – [Your Name]”
Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the positions are filled. For full consideration, submit your application by 15 April 2026.