Auburn University in Alabama, United States, is accepting applications for a funded PhD research position offering an annual salary of $30,000, additional benefits, and a typical tuition fee waiver.
The four-year doctoral opportunity is available through the university’s School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences (SFAAS). The selected candidate will join Dr. Ian A. E. Butts’ Reproductive Physiology Lab to conduct research on the molecular reproductive physiology of catfish.
The research project aims to improve reproductive performance and offspring production in hybrid catfish, an important part of the US aquaculture industry.
Applications will close on February 1, 2027, at 11:59 pm Central Standard Time. The successful candidate is expected to begin coursework and research in May 2027.
Scholarship Benefits
The PhD position provides financial support for four years, allowing the selected student to pursue doctoral studies while working on research projects.
Successful applicants will receive an annual salary of $30,000, along with fringe benefits, throughout the appointment.
Over four years, the advertised salary could total $120,000, provided the student completes the full appointment under the stated terms.
Auburn University also typically provides a tuition waiver. Applicants should confirm the exact tuition arrangements and other financial conditions before accepting an offer.
The selected student will conduct most of the research at the E.W. Shell Fisheries Center in Auburn, Alabama. The project will also involve research activities at universities and research facilities across the Midwestern United States.
Research Areas and Program Details
The doctoral project focuses on the molecular and physiological processes that affect reproduction in catfish.
Hybrid catfish production involves crossing male blue catfish with female channel catfish. However, producing high-quality sperm from blue catfish remains a major challenge for the aquaculture industry.
The research aims to improve understanding of the factors affecting sperm quality, fertilization, and early offspring development.
The selected student will investigate reproductive physiology and explore methods to improve the production of hybrid catfish.
Another important part of the project involves developing biomarkers to assess gamete quality through multi-omics analyses. These techniques allow researchers to study different biological processes and identify factors that influence reproductive performance.
The research will contribute to scientific knowledge that could support improvements in catfish breeding and aquaculture production.
Who Can Apply?
Auburn University is seeking a motivated candidate with a master’s degree in biology, aquaculture, fisheries, or a closely related discipline.
Applicants should have a strong interest in aquaculture, molecular physiology, and reproductive biology.
The university expects candidates to have laboratory experience in molecular biology, physiology, or both.
Experience in bioinformatics can strengthen an application, although it is not listed as a compulsory requirement.
Candidates with practical experience in fish husbandry or working with aquatic organisms may also have an advantage.
Applicants should demonstrate good communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
The position also requires candidates to be able to obtain a US driver’s licence and have access to a vehicle.
Academic and English Language Requirements
Applicants must hold a relevant master’s degree and meet Auburn University’s graduate admission requirements for doctoral studies.
A scholarship listing mentions a minimum GPA of 3.0. It also lists the following English-language test scores:
- IELTS: 6.5
- TOEFL iBT: 79
- Duolingo English Test: 115
However, these minimum scores are not specified in the original research advertisement. International applicants should check Auburn University’s current graduate admission requirements before applying.
The university will also need to approve the successful candidate’s enrolment in its PhD program through the School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare a single PDF containing the required application materials.
According to the recruitment announcement, the application package should include:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts
- Relevant GRE information
The CV should also include contact information for three referees.
The cover letter should explain the candidate’s academic background, research experience, interest in molecular reproductive physiology, and future career goals.
Applicants should carefully review their documents before sending the application to ensure that all required information is included.
How to Apply for the Auburn University PhD Position
Interested candidates must submit their applications directly to the recruiting professor, Dr. Ian A. E. Butts.
Applicants should combine their cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and relevant GRE information into one PDF file.
The completed application package must be emailed to:
Candidates can also review the complete recruitment announcement published on the Texas A&M University Natural Resources Job Board.
For additional information about the research group, applicants can explore the Reproductive Physiology Lab website.
The application deadline is February 1, 2027, at 11:59 pm Central Standard Time. The selected student is expected to start coursework and research in May 2027.
International applicants should review the university’s admission requirements and confirm the funding and tuition arrangements before submitting their applications.
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