PhD Student Position in Molecular Reproductive Physiology of Catfish

Job Details

A PhD position is available at Auburn University, with a start date of May 2027 or earlier. The student will join Ian Butts’ Reproductive Physiology Lab in the School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences (SFAAS).

Responsibilities and Tasks

Hybrid catfish production (blue catfish males × channel catfish females) is an important sector of U.S. aquaculture, but producing high-quality sperm from blue catfish remains a major challenge. This project will investigate the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying gamete quality and reproductive performance, with the goal of improving fertilization and early offspring production.

The student will spend approximately 75% of their time conducting laboratory research and 25% conducting pond-based research. Research opportunities will include:

• Predicting and improving sperm quality for in vitro fertilization
• Developing gamete quality biomarkers using multi-omics analyses (see Fig.)
• Understanding the reproductive physiology of blue catfish
• Developing new approaches to improve reproductive performance in hybrid catfish

The student will gain hands-on experience with biochemical, endocrine, molecular biology, cellular, and functional omics techniques, while addressing research questions directly relevant to the aquaculture industry.

Requirements

We are looking for a motivated and enthusiastic candidate with:

• Master’s degree in biology, aquaculture, fisheries, or a closely related field
• Interest in aquaculture, molecular physiology, and reproductive biology
• Laboratory experience in molecular biology and/or physiology
• Experience with bioinformatics is an asset
• Practical experience with fish husbandry or aquatic organisms is an asset
• Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to obtain a U.S. driver’s license and have access to a vehicle

Application

Please submit your application by February 1, 2027, at 11:59 PM CST.

Applications should be emailed to iab0007@auburn.edu as one PDF file containing all application materials:

• Cover letter/motivation letter (1–2 pages) describing your background, research interests, and career goals
• Curriculum vitae, including e-mail addresses and phone numbers for three referees
• Unofficial transcripts and GRE scores (see GRE information)

Contact Information

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For further information about the project, please contact Dr. Ian A.E. Butts at iab0007@auburn.edu Lab website: https://ianaebutts.wixsite.com/labsite