MSc student position in Reproductive Physiology and Hatchery Science of Eastern Oyster

Job Details

MSc student position in Reproductive Physiology and Hatchery Science of Eastern Oyster

A Master of Science (MSc) position is available at Auburn University (start date: January 2026). The student will be hosted by the Aquatic Reproductive Physiology lab (P.I. Dr. Ian A.E. Butts) and the Auburn University Shellfish Lab (P.I. Dr. Andrea Tarnecki). In terms of research, our long-term objectives are to address needs identified by the Alabama shellfish aquaculture industry and its stakeholders by testing technology/practices that have the potential to alleviate challenges and bottlenecks encountered by the oyster farming industry. To accomplish this, we take an interdisciplinary approach to test hypotheses in applied aquaculture and hatchery science.

Responsibilities and tasks

To improve oyster production numbers and best allocate available resources, oyster hatchery efforts should prioritize fertilizing eggs with high-quality sperm. Sperm of high quality have increased fertilization, hatch rates, and survival to set. Research on the relationship between sperm parameters and larval success, as well as factors (i.e., genetic, environmental, dietary) that influence sperm quality is lacking for oysters in general, particularly using cryopreserved sperm. To that end, the purpose of this MS project is to identify biomarkers for sperm quality (both fresh and frozen) to improve the efficiency of oyster hatcheries.

Salary and appointment terms

The MSc ($22,500 + benefits for 2 years) salary and appointment terms are consistent with the current rules for graduate students. Typically, a tuition waiver is provided. The students will begin coursework and research in January 2026. This 2 year project will be carried out at the Auburn University Shellfish Lab, which is situated in Dauphin Island, Alabama (https://agriculture.auburn.edu/research/faas/auburn-shellfish-lab/).

Application

Please submit your application no later than 15 Oct 2026 at 11:59 PM CDT. Applications must be e-mailed to Dr.  Ian Butts (iab0007@auburn.edu) as “one” pdf file containing all materials to be given consideration. The file must include:

• Cover letter motivating the application (please include your background, interests, goals - 1 to 2 pages)
• Curriculum vitae with contact information (e-mail and phone numbers) for three referees  
• Unofficial transcripts and GRE scores (refer to: https://www.ets.org/gre)

Requirements

Qualifications

We are looking for a motivated candidate who has:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology or a similar degree
• Knowledge of aquaculture and aquatic physiology  
• Proven ability to carry out goal-oriented work and fluent with data management systems (i.e. Excel, Word, statistical analysis)
• Lab competences in physiology would be considered an asset - please clarify your experiences in the “motivating letter”
• Practical husbandry experiences with aquatic organisms will be an asset
• Good co-operation ability
• Must have a valid U.S. government issued driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record.

Contact Information