Iowa State University Scholarship 2026 — $29,000 Per Year
This position at the Iowa State University Scholarship is currently open and closing soon. Applications received before July 10, 2026 are guaranteed consideration and the final deadline is July 31, 2026. The Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management at Iowa State University is offering a funded PhD or MS Graduate Assistantship focused on Invasive Carp and native fish species, including sturgeon and Blue Suckers, across the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers and their tributaries. This is a paid research position, not a competitive scholarship with a limited pool of winners — if your qualifications match, your application is reviewed on its merits against other applicants. The starting salary is $29,000 per year, and the role runs at least 40 hours per week beginning August 24, 2026. MS applicants need a Bachelor’s degree in fisheries or a related field; PhD applicants need a Master’s. Fieldwork experience is expected. Send your complete application directly to Dr. Michael Weber at [email protected] before July 10 if you want guaranteed review.
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Summary of the Iowa State University Scholarship
| Scholarship Name ⇒ | PhD or MS Graduate Assistantship in Fisheries |
| Host Country ⇒ | United States of America (USA) |
| Study Level ⇒ | Masters | PhD |
| Benefits ⇒ | Starting at $29,000 per year |
| Funded By ⇒ | Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA |
| Eligible Countries ⇒ | All Countries |
| Application Deadline ⇒ | July 31, 2026 |
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Eligibility Requirements
For MS applicants:
- A completed Bachelor’s degree in fisheries or a closely related field
- Prior fisheries fieldwork experience
For PhD applicants:
- A completed Master’s degree in fisheries or a closely related field
- Prior fisheries fieldwork experience
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Beyond the degree requirements, the following are described as preferred or required in the position description:
- Demonstrated critical thinking skills
- Strong written and oral communication ability
- Analytical skills and strong academic credentials
- High motivation and a strong work ethic
- Physical capability and willingness to work long hours in demanding outdoor conditions — this is a field-intensive position requiring river work on major waterway systems, often in challenging conditions
There is no stated nationality restriction in the position description. International students with the relevant academic background and fieldwork experience can apply, though you should confirm US work authorisation and student visa requirements with Iowa State’s international students office before applying.
What the Iowa State University Scholarship Covers
This is a funded graduate position, meaning you receive a salary — starting at $29,000 per year — in exchange for conducting the research that forms the basis of your thesis or dissertation. Graduate assistantships at US universities typically also include tuition coverage and health insurance as part of the package, though the specific benefits beyond the salary should be confirmed directly with Dr. Weber or Iowa State’s Graduate College when you make contact.
The research itself centres on:
- Behavioural ecology and population dynamics of Invasive Carp and native fishes including sturgeon and Blue Suckers
- Field data collection using acoustic telemetry arrays across the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers and their tributaries
- Supervision of field technicians
- Data entry and analysis
- Contribution to annual reports for partner agencies
Thesis topics can be developed in part based on the student’s own interests within the broader research framework, which gives the selected student real input into the direction of their graduate work rather than working strictly to a predetermined scope.
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Required Application Materials
Submit all of the following electronically to Dr. Michael Weber at [email protected]:
- Cover letter explaining your background, relevant experience, and interest in the position
- Résumé or CV
- Unofficial academic transcripts
- Contact information for three references
The position description does not require reference letters at the application stage — contact details for referees are sufficient for initial submission.
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How to Apply for the Iowa State University Scholarship 2026
- Prepare your cover letter, résumé, transcripts, and three reference contacts
- Email your complete application to Dr. Michael Weber at [email protected] — this is the preferred contact method
- Submit before July 10, 2026 for guaranteed consideration. Applications received after July 10 will still be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled or the July 31 final deadline is reached
- If you have questions before applying, contact Dr. Weber directly at the email above
Do not send a partial application expecting to follow up with missing documents. Bring your complete package together first — this is a competitive position and a complete, well-prepared application submitted before July 10 gives you the strongest possible position.
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Application Deadline
July 10, 2026 is the guaranteed consideration deadline — 4 days from today. July 31, 2026 is the absolute final deadline, after which the position either closes or is filled. The start date is August 24, 2026, which means there is very little time between the final deadline and the expected start — do not wait until the end of July if you are serious about this position.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a scholarship or a paid position?
It is a funded graduate assistantship — a paid research position that also allows you to complete your MS or PhD degree. You receive a salary starting at $29,000 per year in exchange for conducting the research. It is not a standalone scholarship award.
Can I propose my own thesis topic?
Partly. The research framework is set around Invasive Carp and native fish behavioural ecology and population dynamics in the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. Within that framework, thesis topics can be developed in part based on your own interests, in discussion with Dr. Weber.
Do I need to be a US citizen to apply?
The position description does not state a citizenship requirement. International applicants with relevant qualifications can apply, but should confirm visa and work authorisation requirements with Iowa State’s international student services before applying.
What fieldwork is involved?
The role requires extensive field data collection on major river systems, supervision of field technicians, and the physical ability and willingness to work long hours in demanding outdoor environments. This is not a predominantly lab-based position.
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How do I contact Dr. Weber with questions?
Email is the preferred method: [email protected]
Disclaimer: All position details, deadlines, salary, and eligibility criteria in this post were taken from the official position listing as published on June 26, 2026. Information is subject to change without notice. Always confirm the latest details directly with Dr. Michael Weber at Iowa State University before submitting your application. ScholarWaka is not affiliated with Iowa State University or the Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management.
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