Natural Resources Job Board

The Center for Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences at Eastern Illinois University (EIU) is seeking up to 4 MS Graduate Assistantship candidates with a preferred start date in Spring or Summer, 2026. We will also consider applicants for a later start date if needed.   

Opportunity to develop an MS thesis on one of the following fisheries research topics:

·       Wabash River fish community assessment

·       Channel Catfish demographics and spawning box evaluation in small impoundments

·       Invasive carp reproduction and recruitment dynamics in the Wabash River

·       Invasive carp movement ecology

We seek a highly motivated student to assist with field sampling, laboratory work, data analyses, and report/manuscript writing. The position includes a tuition waiver and a $1600/month stipend. The candidate will gain diverse experiences in aquatic sciences, cooperating on other graduate student projects and working with fisheries professionals throughout the state. Candidates will also have several opportunities to attend scientific conferences to highlight their research and network with professionals. 

Review of applications will begin on November 25th,  2025 and will continue until the position is filled. 

EIU boasts a robust fisheries and aquatic ecology program with 8-10 graduate students and numerous undergraduates working on diverse research topics including sportfish management, impacts of invasive species, and stream habitat restoration. We foster a collaborative environment where faculty, staff and students work together to achieve research goals while allowing students to develop their own personal research interests and experiences.

For more information, visit EIU Center for Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences | Eastern Illinois University

Email a cover letter, a CV (including undergraduate GPA), undergraduate academic transcripts (unofficial okay), and a list of three professional references to drroth@eiu.edu using subject line “2025 MS Application, EIU Fisheries”. 

Daniel Roth-Fisheries Researcher and Laboratory Manager (Send application materials to this contact)

Office: 2114 - Life Science Annex
Phone: 217-581-3100
Email: drroth@eiu.edu

Faculty Advisors:

Office: 1044 - Life Science

Office: 2112 - Life Science Annex
Email: recolombo@eiu.edu