2025 Scholarship in Marine Ecology At The University of Virginia [Study In USA]

The University of Virginia’s Department of Environmental Sciences is offering fully funded PhD positions focused on Marine Ecology. These positions aim to study the diverse ecosystems of seagrass meadows, oyster reefs, and kelp forests, contributing to critical coastal conservation and restorative efforts.

Facts about the University of Virginia

1. Founded by Thomas Jefferson: The University of Virginia was founded in 1819 by Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States.
2. UNESCO World Heritage Site: The university’s historic campus, designed by Jefferson, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3. Top-Ranked University: UVA consistently ranks among the top 25 universities globally (US News & World Report).
4. Academic Excellence: The university offers over 220 degree programs across 12 schools.
5. Research Powerhouse: UVA is classified as a “Highest Research Activity” institution by the Carnegie Foundation.
6. Diverse Student Body: Students from all 50 states and over 130 countries study at UVA.
7. Athletic Excellence: The UVA Cavaliers have won 27 NCAA championships.
8. Alumni Network: UVA boasts a network of over 250,000 living alumni worldwide.
9. Innovative Spirit: The university is home to the UVA Innovation Lab, fostering entrepreneurship and start-ups.
10. Location: Charlottesville, Virginia, consistently ranked as one of the “Happiest Cities in America” (Gallup-Sharecare).

Eligibility For 2025 Scholarship in Marine Ecology At The University of Virginia

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in relevant fields (biology, ecology, oceanography, etc.)
• Interests in seagrass, oyster reefs, or kelp forests and restoration
• Field ecology experience and/or strong quantitative skills (data analysis, modeling, programming)
• Demonstrated motivation to acquire necessary skills for the position

Description For 2025 Scholarship in Marine Ecology At The University of Virginia

The positions focus on key areas of marine ecology, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity and community dynamics within specific ecosystems. Each role will be tied to different environments:

1. PhD in Seagrass Community Ecology: Investigation of biodiversity and community ecology of marine species in the largest restored seagrass meadow at the Virginia Coast Reserve LTER.
2. PhD in Oyster Reef Ecology: Study of population dynamics of oysters on restored reefs at the Virginia Coast Reserve LTER.
3. PhD in Kelp Forest Community Ecology: Research on biodiversity and ecosystem stability within kelp forests at the Santa Barbara Coastal LTER.

Each candidate will engage in interdisciplinary research that combines fieldwork, modeling, and long-term observations.

How To Apply For 2025 Scholarship in Marine Ecology At The University of Virginia

Interested candidates should email the following as a single PDF to Dr. Max Castorani at castorani@virginia.edu:

• A brief description of background, career goals, motivations for pursuing a PhD, research ideas, and interest in the Castorani Lab.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) including academic and professional experience and GPA.
• Contact information for three references.
• A writing sample.

Last Date To Apply is January 15, 2025