Natural Resources Job Board

 Graduate Student Opportunities – Fall 2025 Cohort
Department of Biology, Frostburg State University

The Master’s programs in Applied Ecology & Conservation Biology and Wildlife & Fisheries Biology at Frostburg State University are now recruiting passionate and driven students for the Fall 2025 graduate cohort!

We are specifically seeking candidates to join the Parasites and Plastics Ecology Group, with at least three funded graduate research positions available. This is an exciting opportunity to engage in impactful research addressing pressing environmental and ecological challenges.

About the Research Projects:
Selected students will have the opportunity to work on projects that involve a diverse array of taxonomic groups, including: Insects, Gastropods, Fish, and Birds from a range of ecological systems.

Potential study topics include, but are not limited to: Wildlife disease and parasite infection ecology, Ecosystem and population health, Dynamics of plastic pollution and its effects on ecological systems, Projects that integrate the study of plastic pollution with other ecological themes are highly encouraged.

Why Frostburg State University?
Frostburg State University (FSU) is a public university nestled in the scenic mountains of western Maryland. Known for its strong focus on experiential learning, FSU offers a supportive environment for academic and professional growth, with access to diverse ecosystems for hands-on research and field studies. The university is committed to sustainability, innovation, and fostering a vibrant community of scholars dedicated to addressing real-world challenges. FSU’s close-knit campus and exceptional faculty provide an ideal setting for students to excel in their academic pursuits while contributing to meaningful change.

Funding and Assistantship Opportunities:
Graduate students at FSU benefit from Teaching Assistantships (TAs) that include: Full or partial tuition remission to significantly offset educational costs and a living stipend for the academic year.

Additional opportunities are available for: University service roles, which can provide scholarships and supplemental summer pay.
These funding options ensure that students can focus on their research and academic goals while minimizing financial burdens.

Eligibility and Expectations:
Applicants should have a strong interest in ecological research and environmental health.

Backgrounds in biology, ecology, or related fields are preferred.

Prior research experience is a plus but not required.

Candidates are encouraged to explore shared research interests with the faculty advisor before applying.

Note: Cold applications are unlikely to be viewed as competitive. It is strongly recommended that interested individuals contact Dr. Kate Sheehan (klsheehan@frostburg.edu) to discuss their research interests and alignment with the program.

Application Requirements:
Faculty Advisor: Applicants must secure a major professor within the Department of Biology who is willing to mentor and guide their thesis research. It is essential that your research interests align with those of the faculty member.

For detailed information on admission requirements, please visit: FSU AECB Admission Requirements: https://www.frostburg.edu/academics/majorminors/graduate/ms-applied-ecology-and-conservation-biology/additional-resources/aecb-admission-requirements.php

Prospective students must meet the following criteria:
Educational Background: Completion of a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution with an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

GRE Scores: Submission of GRE scores with a minimum combined score of 300 (Verbal + Quantitative) on the General Test. Scores below this threshold will be considered on an individual basis.

References: Three professional references attesting to your suitability for graduate study. Contact information for these references should be provided in your online application.

Résumé: Submission of a current résumé detailing your academic and professional experiences.

Statement of Purpose: A typewritten statement summarizing your educational goals and research interests.

How to Apply:
To express interest in one of these positions contact Dr. Kate Sheehan at klsheehan(AT)frostburg.edu to discuss potential research alignment.

Submit a complete online application to the graduate program through Frostburg State University, ensuring all the above requirements are met.

Application reviews start on March 1st, 2025