The University of Florida is seeking a highly motivated PhD Graduate Assistant to develop ecosystem models and conduct analyses addressing real-world challenges in fisheries and natural resource management.
The research is highly quantitative and applied, with a focus on understanding how fish stocks and marine ecosystems respond to fishing and environmental change. The broader goal is to bridge ecosystem science, stock assessment, and management while also advancing ecological theories and concepts.
The student will work on one or more projects related to ecosystem-based fisheries management for the Gulf of Mexico and Southeast U.S. Potential research topics include using ecosystem models to evaluate fisheries productivity and develop management strategies in response to changes in climate, habitat, water quality, forage fisheries, harmful algal blooms, and invasive species.
The PhD student will be advised by Dr. David Chagaris and will collaborate with a diverse team of scientists and faculty members from NOAA and the University of Florida. The Graduate Assistant will join the UF/IFAS Nature Coast Biological Station while pursuing a degree through the School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences or the School of Natural Resources and Environment. This interdepartmental arrangement offers opportunities for research collaboration, networking, and teaching.
Position information
Position: PhD Graduate Assistant – Fisheries Ecosystem Modeling
Location: University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
Start date: 2027
Apply by: Open until filled
Minimum qualification
M.S. degree in biology, ecology, marine science, fisheries, oceanography, wildlife, or a related field.
Preferred qualifications
Knowledge and experience with ecosystem and food web models, fish population dynamic models and stock assessment, species distribution models, and geospatial analysis of large fisheries and environmental datasets;
Strong written and oral communication skills, demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at professional conferences;
Experience with the Ecopath with Ecosim ecosystem modeling software package;
Proficiency in R statistical computing software;
Experience working in collaborative, multidisciplinary projects and leading research projects.
Salary and benefits
The annual salary is USD 30,000, plus tuition and benefits, including the GatorGradCare health care plan, paid leave, and a voluntary retirement program.
Application instructions
Applicants should submit a letter of interest, resume or CV, unofficial transcripts, and contact information for two references to:
David Chagaris
dchagaris@ufl.edu
Applications will be accepted and reviewed as they are received until the position is filled.
Contact
David Chagaris, Ph.D.
Research Associate Professor
University of Florida
IFAS Nature Coast Biological Station
https://ncbs.ifas.ufl.edu/