Graduate Research Assistant Opportunity

The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science seeks a Graduate Research Assistant for a research project on landscape genomics and fish ecology in Frostburg, MD. The role involves high-performance computing and bioinformatics, utilizing R and Python. Candidates must pursue a Master's or PhD in the MEES program. The position offers a stipend, tuition waiver, and a collaborative research environment, with a commitment to diversity in STEM.
About the position

The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) is seeking a highly motivated Graduate Research Assistant to join Dr. Zach Zbinden's research team at the Appalachian Laboratory. This position offers an exciting opportunity to engage in a cutting-edge research project focused on landscape genomics, ecology, and the evolutionary processes of fish species in the Ozark Highlands. The successful candidate will be involved in high-performance computing and bioinformatics, analyzing next-generation sequencing data using programming tools such as R and Python. This role is ideal for students pursuing a Master's or PhD degree and aims to develop their research skills in a collaborative and innovative environment. Located in Frostburg, Maryland, the Appalachian Laboratory is situated in a charming college town known for its low cost of living and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. The lab promotes a distinctive, research-centric educational experience, encouraging study across both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems worldwide. The Graduate Research Assistant will be expected to enroll in the Marine, Estuarine, and Environmental Sciences (MEES) graduate program at the University of Maryland College Park, with classes offered both in-person and virtually by professors across the program. The position guarantees support for at least 3.0 years, providing a stipend of approximately $33,671 along with a tuition waiver. Candidates are encouraged to apply by submitting a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and unofficial college transcripts to Dr. Zbinden. The application deadlines for the upcoming semesters are September 30, 2024, for Spring 2025 and January 17, 2025, for Fall 2025. UMCES is committed to fostering diversity in science and strongly encourages applications from students belonging to traditionally underrepresented groups in STEM fields.

Responsibilities
• Contribute to research on landscape genomics and ecology of fish species.
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• Analyze next-generation sequencing data using R and Python.
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• Develop skills in high-performance computing and bioinformatics.
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• Collaborate with team members on research projects.
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• Engage in academic coursework through the MEES graduate program.

Requirements
• Minimum of a BA, BS, or MS in biology, ecology, environmental science, fisheries and wildlife science, or a related field.
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• Proficiency in reading scientific literature.

Nice-to-haves
• Experience in landscape genomics and next-generation sequencing data analysis.
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• Proficiency in R, Python, Bash, or ArcGIS.

Benefits
• Annual stipend of approximately $33,671.
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• Tuition waiver included.
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• Guaranteed support for at least 3.0 years.