Tulane University is offering a fully funded three-year Master’s graduate assistantship in the Sidlauskas Lab, focusing on fish assemblages on artificial reefs in Lake Pontchartrain, Louisiana.
This exciting opportunity, supported by the Louisiana Sea Grant programme, combines traditional specimen collection with cutting-edge high-resolution imaging sonar surveys. It aims to evaluate the effectiveness of artificial reefs for fish habitat restoration and fisheries enhancement while testing a non-lethal, low-cost monitoring method.
About the Project
Louisiana has deployed artificial reefs since 1986 to restore fish habitats and boost fisheries, but questions remain about their true effectiveness, the composition of fish communities on reefs of different ages and designs, and their broader ecological impact on surrounding ecosystems.
The successful candidate will investigate these topics through a novel approach:
- Traditional specimen collection
- High-resolution imaging sonar-based surveys on four artificial reefs
The project will reveal which fish species use specific reefs and when, assess non-lethal monitoring techniques, and contribute valuable specimens to Tulane’s Royal D. Suttkus fish collection — the world’s largest collection of preserved post-larval fishes.
This is a collaborative effort between the Sidlauskas Lab at Tulane University (New Orleans) and the Rieucau Lab at the Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium (LUMCON).
Start date: Between 1 July 2026 and 1 August 2026 Duration: Three years (ending before 15 May 2029) Location: Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
Benefits
This fully funded position provides:
- Full tuition coverage
- Annual stipend of $30,000 per year
- Funding through the generous support of the Louisiana Sea Grant programme
Eligibility and Requirements
To be considered, applicants should meet the following criteria (a Bachelor’s degree is required):
Preferred qualifications (strongly encouraged):
- Bachelor’s degree in biology, marine science, fisheries science, or a closely related field
- Prior knowledge of basic statistical techniques
- Familiarity with freshwater and marine fishes of Louisiana
- Boating experience
- Experience driving vehicles with attached trailers
- Strong interest in learning new technologies
- Genuine interest in pursuing a career in marine science, fisheries science, ecology, or ichthyology
Required abilities:
- Ability to perform fieldwork from boats
- Ability to operate a motor vehicle
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team
No prior experience is strictly required beyond a Bachelor’s degree, but relevant skills and enthusiasm will be advantageous.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Prepare the following documents:
- An up-to-date résumé or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- A cover letter outlining your interest in the position, relevant experience, and career goals
- Contact information for three professional references
- Send all documents by email to Dr Brian Sidlauskas at [email protected].
- Submit your application by 27 March 2026 to receive full consideration. Review of applications will begin shortly after this date.