GRADUATE OPPORTUNITY
Position: Prospective PhD Student in Ornamental Aquaculture
Entity: University of Florida - Tropical Aquaculture Laboratory
Location: Ruskin, Florida
Salary: Commensurate / Negotiable (annual stipend, tuition remission, and GatorGradCare health insurance contingent on funding)
Deadline: January 4, 2026
Description:
“The University of Florida is seeking expressions of interest from prospective PhD students to compete for a four-year research fellowship. Florida leads domestic ornamental aquaculture production, valued at $172 million in 2021. However, shifting market demand, foreign competition, and rising regulatory requirements pose challenges for long-term industry resilience. This PhD project will address key knowledge gaps in captive reproduction, larval culture, and production techniques for economically important ornamental species in both freshwater and marine sectors.
Requirements:
- M.S. degree in aquaculture or a related discipline
- Demonstrated research experience and a history of peer-reviewed publication
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Familiarity with biochemical assays and molecular techniques (preferred but not required)
How to Apply: Submit one PDF or Word file containing all required materials by January 4, 2026 to: Dr. Matthew DiMaggio - mdimaggi@ufl.edu & Dr. Casey Murray - casey.murray@ufl.edu (preferred contact).
Include:
- Cover letter (interests, qualifications, experience, research goals, career aspirations)
- Curriculum Vitae
- Unofficial academic transcripts
- Names and contact information for three professional references
For more information: TAL: such.ifas.ufl.edu & Program in Fisheries & Aquatic Sciences: ffgs.ifas.ufl.edu.”