Kentucky State University is offering a fully funded graduate research assistantship for a Master of Science (M.S.) programme in Aquaculture and Aquatic Science. The opportunity is hosted within the School of Aquaculture and Aquatic Science at the Kentucky State University.
The scholarship is designed for students who are interested in fish behaviour, aquaculture systems and engineering-based solutions to improve feeding efficiency in aquatic species.
The selected candidate will work under the supervision of Dr. Patrick Erbland and contribute to the development of innovative smart feeding systems that use behavioural data to optimise fish feeding.
Research Focus of the Programme
The core research project focuses on understanding fish behaviour and developing automated feeding systems.
Key areas of research include:
- Behavioural observation of fish appetite levels
- Development of smart feeding systems
- Use of low-cost sensors such as video, audio and motion detection
- Design and testing of prototype feeding technologies
- Application of machine learning and data analysis methods
The research is highly practical and combines biology, engineering and computer science techniques.
Scholarship Benefits and Funding Support
The assistantship provides financial and academic support to successful candidates.
Benefits include:
- Annual stipend of $30,000
- Hands-on research training in aquaculture systems
- Access to advanced laboratory and field facilities
- Opportunity to publish research in peer-reviewed journals
- Collaboration with experienced researchers
Tuition support is not automatically included, but additional funding may be available through external grants.
Eligibility Requirements for Applicants
Applicants must meet specific academic and technical requirements.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Biology or a related field
- Valid United States driver’s licence
- Ability to work in challenging field environments
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow research protocols
- Excellent organisational and communication skills
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines
Preferred Skills
- Experience in aquaculture or laboratory research
- Ability to design and build prototype systems
- Programming knowledge (especially Python)
- Independent and team-based research experience
- Strong interest in aquaculture innovation
Research Facilities at Kentucky State University
Students will have access to one of the most advanced aquaculture research environments in the United States.
Facilities include:
- 33 research ponds
- 3,000-square-foot hatchery
- Nutrition laboratory
- Genomics laboratory
- Fish disease diagnostic laboratory
- Large-scale aquatic production systems
- Controlled recirculating aquaculture systems
- Water quality analysis laboratories
These facilities support high-level experimental and applied aquatic research.
Species Used in Research
The programme involves a wide range of aquatic species, including:
- Largemouth bass
- Channel catfish
- Hybrid striped bass
- Tilapia
- Koi
- Paddlefish
- Freshwater prawns
- Crayfish
- Shrimp species
- Freshwater mussels
This diversity allows students to gain broad practical research experience.
How to Apply
Prior to applying to the Graduate School, interested applicants must send a single email to Dr. Patrick Erbland at patrick.erbland@kysu.edu with the subject line “Smart Feeder MS Application”.
The email must include:
- A one-page cover letter outlining research interests
- A detailed resume or CV
- Unofficial academic transcripts
- Contact details for three professional referees
Applications are reviewed from 15 June 2026, and the position remains open until filled. The expected start date is August 2026, subject to funding approval.
Selection Process
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Academic performance
- Research experience and technical ability
- Motivation and interest in aquaculture
- Communication and teamwork skills
- Alignment with the project goals
Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for further discussions or interviews before final selection.
Application Deadline
1 August 2026
APPLY HERE
Kentucky State University Graduate Research Application
Important Information for Applicants
Applicants should note the following:
- This is a competitive research assistantship
- Early application is strongly encouraged
- The position may close once a suitable candidate is found
- Candidates must meet all graduate school requirements at Kentucky State University