The University of Connecticut Scholarship offers qualified applicants the opportunity to pursue a funded PhD programme in freshwater ecosystem ecology and biogeochemistry. The opportunity enables successful candidates to undertake advanced research while contributing to an interdisciplinary project exploring how beaver-created ecosystems influence freshwater carbon cycling in the Northeastern United States of America (USA).
Hosted by the Helton and Lawrence laboratory groups at the University of Connecticut, the programme provides doctoral students with the chance to develop practical and analytical skills through field research, ecosystem modelling and collaboration with leading researchers.
About the University of Connecticut Scholarship
The scholarship supports a PhD research project investigating the biogeochemistry of beaver-created ecosystems and their impact on freshwater carbon cycling.
Successful applicants will join a multidisciplinary research team and conduct fieldwork to measure greenhouse gas dynamics, ecosystem metabolism and carbon stocks across ponds, wetlands and streams. The project also offers opportunities to develop watershed-scale models to better understand carbon processes within beaver-created environments.
Students will gain extensive experience in freshwater ecosystem ecology, environmental science and biogeochemistry while preparing for careers in research, academia and environmental management.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- Graduate Assistant funding throughout the PhD programme.
- Financial support for doctoral study.
- Research training in freshwater ecosystem ecology and biogeochemistry.
- Opportunities to participate in interdisciplinary field and laboratory research.
- Practical experience in ecosystem modelling and environmental analysis.
- Access to experienced academic supervisors and modern research facilities.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree in a related field.
- Have at least one year of post-baccalaureate research experience.
- Possess fieldwork experience.
- Demonstrate an interest in biogeochemistry.
- Have excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Preference will be given to applicants who have:
- Two or more years of post-baccalaureate research experience.
- A Master of Science degree or equivalent in a related discipline.
- Experience in freshwater ecology, environmental science or ecosystem research.
Required Documents
Applicants are required to submit:
- A statement outlining their research interests.
- A current Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting relevant experience.
- Contact information for three professional or academic referees.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should email Ashley Helton ashley.helton@uconn.edu with the subject line “PhD Application Beaver Project.”
The email should include the required application documents. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, therefore early submission is encouraged.
Application Deadline
September 1, 2026