Three fully-funded PhD opportunities are available in the United States for students interested in environmental science, biological research, and fisheries.
Louisiana State University, the University of North Texas, and the University of Vermont offer these opportunities with annual financial support of up to $37,000.All three scholarships have a September 30, 2026 application deadline.
Research under these positions covers wetland and aquatic biogeochemistry, insect pollinators, and the human dimensions of fisheries, allowing students to choose a project that matches their academic background and research interests.
PhD Scholarships in the US 2026
| Scholarship | University | Research Area | Annual Award | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PhD Assistantship in Wetland and Aquatic Biogeochemistry Lab | Louisiana State University | Aquatic Biogeochemistry | $31,000 | September 30, 2026 |
| Graduate Studentship in Impacts of Ranch Management on Insect Pollinators | University of North Texas | Biological Sciences | $26,400–$28,320 | September 30, 2026 |
| Graduate Assistantship in Human Dimensions of Fisheries | University of Vermont | Fisheries Science | $37,000 | September 30, 2026 |
1. LSU PhD Assistantship in Wetland and Aquatic Biogeochemistry
Louisiana State University is offering a fully-funded PhD assistantship focused on wetland and aquatic biogeochemistry.
The research will examine phosphorus dynamics and harmful algal blooms in the Lake Pontchartrain Estuary and its tributaries in southeastern Louisiana. The project will study how land-use changes, sediment loading, and seasonal water conditions affect phosphorus and water quality.
Students will carry out both field and laboratory research involving nutrient analysis, sediment chemistry, water-quality monitoring, and aquatic biogeochemistry.
The assistantship offers a starting stipend of $31,000 per year. It also covers 75% of health insurance premiums. The position is expected to begin after January 1, 2027.
Eligibility
Applicants should hold or be close to completing a relevant master’s degree. Experience or interest in nutrient analysis, sediment chemistry, or water-quality monitoring is preferred.
The listed academic requirement gives a minimum GPA of 3.0. Accepted English language scores include IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 79, PTE Academic 59, or Duolingo 110.
2. UNT Graduate Studentship in Insect Pollinators
The University of North Texas is offering a graduate research opportunity through its Lichtenberg Lab to study the effects of ranch management on insect pollinators.
The project will examine how ranch management practices influence pollinators, plants, soil microbes, and habitat quality. The selected student will lead the pollinator part of the wider research project and conduct fieldwork at ranches across North Texas.
Research will include insect identification, field studies, biodiversity assessment, and ecological data analysis. The work aims to improve understanding of pollinator communities and support sustainable land management.
The studentship provides an annual salary of $26,400 to $28,320. It also includes tuition support and health-related assistance based on the student’s graduate level.
Eligibility
Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, entomology, or a related field. The scholarship listing gives a minimum GPA of 3.5.
Candidates should also have relevant research experience and an interest in pollinator ecology, biodiversity, and conservation. The listed English requirements include IELTS 6.5, PTE Academic 53, or TOEFL iBT 79.
3. University of Vermont Fisheries PhD Assistantship
The University of Vermont is offering a fully-funded graduate assistantship in the human dimensions of fisheries through the Bernos F.I.S.H. Lab.
The research will focus on the relationship between people, fish, and ecosystems in Lake Champlain. Topics may include fishing behavior, fisher decision-making, stakeholder preferences, fish and fisher movement, social networks, and fisheries management.
Students can use a mix of surveys, interviews, fish sampling, telemetry, genetics, modelling, simulations, and network analysis. The final research topic will be developed with the supervisor based on the student’s interests and expertise.
The assistantship provides $37,000 per year and includes tuition support and a living allowance. The position is scheduled to start in January 2027.
Eligibility
Applicants should meet the graduate admission requirements of the University of Vermont and have a background in fisheries science, ecology, environmental studies, geography, sociology, anthropology, natural resources, data science, or a related field.
The scholarship listing gives a minimum GPA of 3.0. English language requirements include IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 90, or Duolingo 110.
Benefits
Selected students will receive annual financial support of up to $37,000, depending on the scholarship. The funding helps cover living expenses during the PhD program.
The assistantships also provide tuition support, while health insurance is included with some positions. Students will also gain access to research facilities, academic supervision, and hands-on experience through field and laboratory work.
Each opportunity offers a different research environment, allowing students to work with university researchers on projects related to aquatic ecosystems, insect pollinators, or fisheries management.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the documents required for their selected opportunity. These generally include:
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates or documents
- Essay or statement of interest
- Letters of recommendation
How to Apply
Applicants should first choose the PhD assistantship that matches their academic background and research interests. They should then review the admission requirements of the relevant university and prepare the required documents.
Candidates generally need to submit their academic transcripts, degree documents, CV, statement or essay, and recommendation letters. Some positions may also ask applicants to contact the research supervisor before submitting a formal application.
Applicants should follow the specific instructions given for their selected university or research project and submit all required documents before September 30, 2026.
Find out more details about
- Graduate Assistantship in Human Dimensions of Fisheries (PhD)
- Graduate Studentship in Impacts of Ranch Management on Insect Pollinators (PhD)
- PhD Assistantship in Wetland and Aquatic Biogeochemistry Lab
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