The University of Wyoming is inviting applications for a fully funded doctoral graduate research opportunity for qualified students interested in avian ecology, wildlife conservation, and forest songbird research.
The position is based in the Chalfoun Lab within the Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Zoology and Physiology, and Program in Ecology and Evolution.
The selected student will receive a stipend, tuition and fee support, and health insurance.
University of Wyoming Graduate Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: United States of America
- University: University of Wyoming
- Study Level: PhD
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Research Area: Wildlife Biology, Avian Ecology, Ecology, Conservation
- Funding: Tuition and fees, $29,016 annual stipend, health insurance
- Monthly Stipend: Approximately $2,418
- Start Date: Fall 2027 or earlier
- Deadline: November 20, 2026
Details of the University of Wyoming Graduate Scholarship
The Chalfoun Lab at the Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, in collaboration with the Ricketts Conservation Fund, is recruiting a doctoral Graduate Research Assistant for Fall 2027 or an earlier start date.
The successful candidate will be part of the Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the university-wide Program in Ecology and Evolution, and the WYOBIRD initiative.
The research will examine how forest songbird populations in the southern part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem respond to different habitat treatments.
These treatments include:
- Prescribed fire.
- Wildfire.
- Forest thinning.
The project will use several years of existing IMBCR survey and MAPS banding data. The doctoral student will also participate in ongoing field research involving bird surveys, bird capture and banding, nest searches and monitoring of selected species, and habitat measurements.
The position provides an opportunity to combine field research with quantitative analysis while contributing to research on wildlife conservation and forest management.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
- A B.S. or B.A. degree in wildlife biology, biology, ecology, or a related field.
- Some relevant field research experience.
- An undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0. Applicants with an M.S. should also have a GPA of at least 3.0.
- Strong interest in research, avian ecology, and wildlife conservation.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a research team.
- Strong work ethic.
- Willingness to contribute to an inclusive and respectful working environment.
- Ability to communicate respectfully with project partners, colleagues, and other researchers.
- Commitment to publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals and presenting results at conferences and to project partners.
- A valid driver’s license.
- Ability to hike through steep and varied terrain.
Highly Desirable Qualifications
The following qualifications would strengthen an application:
- An M.S. degree in wildlife biology, biology, ecology, or a related discipline.
- Strong quantitative skills and experience with statistical analysis.
- At least one peer-reviewed scientific publication.
- Experience capturing, safely handling, and banding small birds.
- Strong scientific writing skills.
Benefits of the University of Wyoming Graduate Scholarship 2027
The graduate research assistantship provides:
- Monthly stipend: Approximately $2,418.
- Annual stipend: Approximately $29,016.
- Tuition support.
- Fee support.
- Health insurance.
- Field research experience in avian ecology and wildlife conservation.
- Opportunities to contribute to peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.
How to Apply for University of Wyoming Graduate Scholarship 2027
Interested applicants should combine the following into one PDF document:
- Cover letter highlighting their interests and qualifications.
- CV.
- Names and contact information for three potential professional references.v
- Send the PDF to: Dr. Anna Chalfoun. Email: achalfou@uwyo.edu
Applications will be reviewed as they are received and the review process will continue until a qualified candidate is selected.
Applicants with questions about the position can also contact Dr. Anna Chalfoun at the email address above.
The expected start date is Fall 2027 or earlier.
📋 Required Documents
- Cover letter highlighting research interests, qualifications, and suitability for the position
- Academic transcripts or other supporting academic documents, if requested during the formal graduate application process
- Proof of Language Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Names and contact information of three professional references, including phone numbers and email addresses
- Additional documents required for admission to the University of Wyoming graduate program, where applicable