University of Illinois Graduate Assistantships in USA 2027 | Fully Funded

Fully funded graduate assistantship opportunities are available at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign for students interested in research on freshwater fish populations and aquatic ecosystems.

The opportunities are offered through the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (NRES), with positions available for MS and PhD students beginning in Fall 2027.

University of Illinois Graduate Assistantship Summary

• Host Country: United States of America
• University: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
• Department: Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences
• Study Level: Master’s and PhD
• Eligible Countries: International students
• Research Area: Fisheries, fish ecology, freshwater ecosystems, environmental science
• Funding: Full tuition waiver, $29,000 to $31,000 annual stipend, health insurance
• Start Date: Fall 2027
• Application Deadline: November 2, 2026

Details of the University of Illinois Graduate Assistantship

The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is seeking motivated graduate students to join research projects examining how different environmental stressors affect fish populations.

The available research opportunities may focus on one or more of the following areas:

1. Fish passage around lock and dam structures in large rivers.
2. Movement ecology of fish in Lake Michigan.
3. The relationship between landscape use and river fish abundance.

The research will involve both laboratory experiments and field studies. Students may examine behavioral and physiological responses of fish and work with state agencies, federal organizations, and industry partners.

The research findings are expected to contribute to conservation policies and practices aimed at protecting and improving freshwater fisheries.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants should meet the following requirements:

• Experience with fish handling, fish care in laboratory settings, or fisheries techniques in the field.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and contribute effectively to a research team.
• A bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, fisheries, or a related discipline for MS applicants.
• A master’s degree is required for applicants seeking the PhD position.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct research independently.
• Experience with statistical analysis and communicating scientific findings through written or oral presentations is desirable.
• Research productivity or previous research experience is an advantage.
• Experience with fish telemetry is beneficial.
• Experience planning and coordinating field teams is an advantage.
• A valid driver’s license is required.

Applicants should also demonstrate a strong interest in fisheries research and the ability to work in both laboratory and field environments.

Benefits of the University of Illinois Graduate Assistantship 2027

Successful graduate students will receive:

• Full tuition waiver.
• Annual living stipend of approximately $29,000 to $31,000.
• Health insurance.
• Opportunities to participate in laboratory and field research.
• Experience working with government, industry, and research partners.
• Research experience related to freshwater fisheries and conservation.

How to Apply for University of Illinois Graduate Assistantship 2027

Interested applicants should prepare their application materials and email Dr. Cory Suski at suski@illinois.edu.

The email should include:

• CV.
• Transcripts.
• Contact information for three references.
• A brief cover letter describing relevant experience and explaining how the laboratory’s research projects fit the applicant’s long-term career goals.

The research positions are expected to begin in Fall 2027.

Applicants should also review the Fish Lab’s research activities and the University of Illinois graduate admission requirements before applying. Official Research Lab: https://fishlab.nres.illinois.edu/