East Tennessee State University Scholarship in USA

The Biology Department at East Tennessee State University (ETSU) is seeking a motivated master's student starting in fall 2027 to join Dr. Ryan Stephens' lab.

The Stephens Lab focuses on understanding ecological interactions and community dynamics, with a strong focus on the trophic ecology of mammals and their consumption and dispersal of fungal spores and seeds.

Graduate students will have the opportunity to work on projects involving both field research and lab-based studies, contributing to our understanding of ecological interactions and the functional roles that small mammals play in forested ecosystems.

There is room for project development depending on the student’s interests, with main research foci including 1) truffle-mammal interactions and the dispersal of fungal spores, 2) seed selection and dispersal by small mammals, and 3) trophic niche dynamics of small mammals.

• A bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related field.

• Previous research experience in ecology, natural resources, biology, or a related discipline is preferred.

·       Experience with field data collection, especially small mammal live trapping or taking forest compositional measurements, is preferred but not required.

• A valid U.S. driver's license (or the ability to get one).

• The position is based at ETSU in Johnson City, Tennessee, and is available beginning August 2027.

• The ideal candidate will be able to start field data collection in May of 2027.

• Fieldwork will take place in the Blue Ridge Mountains of East Tennessee. The Master's student will have support for 2 years, including a tuition waiver and stipend ($12,200), along with a summer salary guaranteed in 2027.

To apply,

• 1

  please email (stephensrb@etsu.edu) your CV, statement of research interests (2 pages max), and contact information for three references.

• 2

  Include “Graduate student application” along with your last name in the email title. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

• 3

  To receive full consideration, please apply before November 1, 2026. Please refer to https://www.etsu.edu/cas/biology/academics/ms_bio.php for information about the Biology M.S. program.