Ph.D. and M.S. Positions at Illinois State University: Freshwater Conservation and Molecular Ecology
I am seeking Ph.D. and/or M.S. students to join the Andres Lab at Illinois State University with a start date of Spring, Summer, or Fall 2025. If you have a passion for freshwater ecology, conservation, and the use of molecular tools to study freshwater biodiversity, the Andres Lab could be an excellent fit for you.
Our research is driven by a strong commitment to conserving aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity. The primary focus of our lab is to understand the ecological impacts of anthropogenic changes within freshwater systems, including habitat modification, climate change, and the spread of aquatic invasive species. Our work typically involves molecular techniques such as environmental DNA, diet metabarcoding, and gut microbiome profiling to explore aquatic biodiversity, population genetics, and host-microbe interactions. Students will have the opportunity to engage in ongoing projects within the lab, develop their own research, or pursue a combination of both. Responsibilities include collaborating with members of the lab, presenting findings at professional conferences, and publishing results in-peer reviewed journals.
We are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive research environment where all members feel welcomed and supported. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds, particularly those from underrepresented groups in science, to apply.
If you are interested in joining the Andres Lab, please reach out to me at kjandr2@ilstu.edu with the following information:
- Your curriculum vitae.
- A brief paragraph outlining your research experience.
- A brief paragraph describing your research interests and how they align with the topics we investigate in the Andres Lab.
- A concise statement explaining why you wish to pursue graduate studies.
The School of Biological Sciences at Illinois State University provides funding for graduate students through Teaching Assistantships and Research Assistantships. More information on the department, application procedures, and requirements can be found here.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. I look forward to hearing from you!
Kara J. Andres, PhD
Assistant Professor
School of Biological Sciences
Illinois State University
Email: kjandr2@ilstu.edu