The University of Florida is offering a PhD opportunity for students interested in fisheries ecosystem modelling and aquatic sciences.
The research position focuses on quantitative analysis and ecosystem modelling. It will examine how fish populations and marine ecosystems respond to fishing pressure and environmental changes.
The opportunity is expected to begin in 2027, with an application deadline of October 31, 2026.
University of Florida PhD Scholarship Details
The position is linked to the University of Florida’s fisheries and aquatic sciences programmes.
UF offers a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, with research spanning ecology, fisheries management and related environmental fields.
The research will take place under Dr David Chagaris, whose work focuses on quantitative fisheries, food webs and ecosystem modelling.
According to the scholarship information provided, the assistantship offers an annual stipend of $30,000, along with tuition coverage and additional benefits.
What Will the PhD Research Cover?
The selected student will work on applied fisheries ecosystem modelling and quantitative analysis.
The research will examine the effects of fishing and environmental changes on fish populations and marine ecosystems.
Potential research areas include climate change, habitat conditions, water quality, forage fisheries, harmful algal blooms, invasive species and fisheries productivity.
These areas connect closely with current research at UF’s Nature Coast Biological Station. Chagaris’ research includes population dynamics, ecosystem models, environmental drivers and fisheries management.
His current projects also include Gulf of Mexico ecosystem modelling and research into climate and fisheries impacts.
Scholarship Benefits
The opportunity includes an annual stipend of $30,000, according to the position details.
The package also includes tuition coverage and other student benefits.
Selected students will work with researchers and faculty involved in fisheries and aquatic sciences. They can also gain experience in quantitative research, ecosystem modelling and fisheries management.
Moreover, the research can provide opportunities to work with multidisciplinary teams and develop skills relevant to academic, government and environmental careers.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should hold an MS degree in biology, ecology, marine science, fisheries, oceanography, wildlife or a related field.
The position is intended for prospective PhD students interested in developing and applying fisheries ecosystem modelling techniques.
Preferred experience includes ecosystem and food-web models, fish population dynamics and stock assessment.
Experience with species distribution models and geospatial analysis can also strengthen an application.
Knowledge of Ecopath with Ecosim and proficiency in R statistical software are also listed among the preferred skills.
Strong written and oral communication skills will be important for the research position.
English Language Requirements
International applicants should also meet the applicable University of Florida English-language requirements.
The scholarship information lists the following minimum scores:
- IELTS: 6.5
- TOEFL iBT: 80
Applicants should verify the current requirements with UF before submitting their application.
Required Application Documents
Interested candidates should prepare the required application materials before contacting the supervisor.
These include:
- Letter of interest
- Resume or CV
- Unofficial academic transcripts
- Contact information for two references
Applicants should also explain their research interests and relevant experience in their letter of interest.
Research Opportunities at UF
The selected PhD student will join a research environment focused on fisheries, aquatic ecosystems and environmental change.
UF’s Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences programme offers doctoral study and includes courses in areas such as fish population dynamics, quantitative fisheries assessment, fisheries management and spatial modelling.
Meanwhile, Chagaris’ current research includes ecosystem modelling for fisheries management in the Gulf of Mexico.
The student may therefore gain hands-on experience with real-world fisheries and ecosystem management challenges.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should prepare their letter of interest, CV or resume, unofficial transcripts and two references.
According to the opportunity details provided, applicants should submit their materials directly to Dr David Chagaris at the University of Florida.
The stated application deadline is October 31, 2026, for the 2027 intake.
Applicants should verify the latest position requirements, funding terms and graduate admission requirements with the University of Florida before applying.
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