Auburn University · Alabama · posted 8 days ago
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). Our long-term research goals are to support the development of sustainable aquaculture, fisheries management, and conservation biology. We use an interdisciplinary approach to investigate reproduction and hatchery science in aquatic organisms, with a particular focus on understanding and controlling biological processes that influence offspring performance and production. 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: o Predicting and improving sperm quality for in vitro fertilization o Developing gamete quality biomarkers using multi-omics analyses (see Fig.) o Understanding the reproductive physiology of blue catfish o 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. Qualifications We are looking for a motivated and enthusiastic candidate with: o Master’s degree in biology, aquaculture, fisheries, or a closely related field o Interest in aquaculture, molecular physiology, and reproductive biology o Laboratory experience in molecular biology and/or physiology o Experience with bioinformatics is an asset o Practical experience with fish husbandry or aquatic organisms is an asset o Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills o Ability to obtain a U.S. driver’s license and have access to a vehicleApproval and Enrollment The graduate appointment is subject to academic approval, and the successful candidate will be enrolled in the PhD program within the School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences (SFAAS). Salary and Appointment Terms The project will be based at the E.W. Shell Fisheries Center in Auburn, Alabama, with additional research conducted at universities and research facilities in the Midwestern United States. The PhD appointment provides a $30,000 annual salary plus fringe benefits for four years. A tuition waiver is typically provided. The student will begin coursework and research in May 2027. 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: o Cover letter/motivation letter (1–2 pages) describing your background, research interests, and career goals o Curriculum vitae, including e-mail addresses and phone numbers for three referees o Unofficial transcripts and GRE scores (see GRE information) For further information about the project, please contact Dr. Ian A.E. Butts at iab0007@auburn.edu Lab website: https://ianaebutts.wixsite.com/labsite
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