The Auburn University Graduate Assistantship

The Auburn University Graduate Assistantship is hosted by the Simonis Lab, which is actively hiring students to work on research related to seasonal pathogen dynamics and bat health across various field locations in Alabama.

Students selected for this program will develop independent research projects within the lab’s broader study areas, including:

• Year-round trends in bat infections and co-infections

• Seasonal changes in bat immunity due to stressors like environmental contaminants and land use

• General ecological and conservation-focused research

Both field and laboratory work will be required, with emphasis on molecular assays, microscopy, statistical analysis using R, and scientific publishing.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology or a wildlife-related field

• Demonstrated motivation and professionalism

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively

• Strong research interest and ability to develop questions

• Must meet the admission requirements of:

  • AU Graduate School

  • College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment

• Valid driver’s license (or ability to obtain one)

Preferred Qualifications:

• MS degree in a related field (for PhD applicants)

• Experience with:

  • Wildlife and bat handling

  • Biological sampling and field surveys

  • Laboratory technical skills and molecular biology

  • Statistical and quantitative analysis using R

💰 Scholarship Benefits

• Full tuition waiver

• Annual living stipend:

  • PhD students – $26,500 + benefits

  • MS students – $23,500 + benefits

• Access to state-of-the-art lab facilities and mentoring support

• Opportunity to publish in peer-reviewed journals and attend international conferences

📝 Responsibilities of Selected Candidates

• Conduct fieldwork and lab research

• Manage and analyze datasets

• Perform statistical analysis using R

• Write and publish research findings

• Present at conferences

• Supervise undergraduate research assistants

• Foster an inclusive and collaborative academic environment

🧾 How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)

1. Prepare the following documents as a single PDF:

   • A cover letter (Max 2 pages) outlining:

     • Program of interest (PhD or MS)

     • Research interests

     • Relevant experience and professional goals

   • Resume/CV

   • Contact details for 2–3 professional references

2. Email the document to Dr. Molly Simonis at
   📧 molly.simonis@auburn.edu
   Subject line: “AU Potential Graduate Student”

3. Application Deadline: July 31, 2025
   🔔 Apply early! Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

📌 Why Choose Auburn University?

Auburn University is one of the top-ranked public research institutions in the USA, offering rich academic resources and extensive research opportunities in wildlife ecology and environmental sciences. The campus provides a collaborative atmosphere and a welcoming community for international students.

🔗 Useful Links

• AU Graduate School Requirements

• AU Forestry, Wildlife & Environment Programs

📅 Deadline Reminder

⏰ Apply Before: July 31, 2025