Western Kentucky University (WKU) offers a fully funded M.S. Research Graduate Assistantship (Plecoptera, stoneflies) in the Aquatic Ecology and Systematics Lab. Funding includes full tuition, monthly stipend, and health insurance. Global eligibility (All Countries). Minimum 2.75 GPA (Biology/Ecology degree) required. Deadline: February 15, 2026. Application via email to Dr. Scott A. Grubbs (scott.grubbs@wku.edu).
Fully Funded Western Kentucky University M.S. Research Assistantship 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Country | USA |
| Study Abroad | Study in USA |
| Category | Postgraduate Scholarships (M.S. Research Assistantship) |
| Eligible Countries | All Countries (Global Eligibility) |
| Reward | Full Tuition Waiver, Monthly Stipend, Health Insurance (Fully Funded) |
| Key Criteria | B.A./B.S. in Biology/Ecology (min 2.75/4.0 GPA) & willingness to focus on stonefly research. |
| Application Deadline | February 15, 2026 |
Western Kentucky University Fully Funded M.S. Research Assistantship 2026
Western Kentucky University (WKU) extends a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for aspiring M.S. students to join its highly dedicated research community. This graduate assistantship is rooted in the commitment to advanced ecological research, specifically through the Aquatic Ecology and Systematics Lab. The program’s core objective is to cultivate the next generation of scientists equipped to address complex challenges in biological systematics and conservation.
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This highly valued assistantship is a direct investment in the student’s research and academic career, eliminating financial barriers and allowing the recipient to fully immerse themselves in their studies. By supporting research into critical areas of aquatic life, WKU aims to contribute significant data and findings to global conservation efforts and biodiversity management.
The specific focus of this assistantship is a testament to WKU’s dedication to specialized, impactful research, providing a unique platform for postgraduate study and professional development within the field of freshwater ecology.
Scholarship Details
This opportunity is structured as a Research Graduate Assistantship, meaning the financial support is directly tied to the student’s active participation in the research activities of the Aquatic Ecology and Systematics Lab. The program is open to all qualified applicants, providing global eligibility for both international and domestic students to apply for this position in the USA.
The core philosophy of the research involves an integrative morphological-molecular approach to address the systematics and conservation of Plecoptera (stoneflies). Anticipated activities for the successful candidate will be diverse and hands-on, including essential fieldwork, lab preparation of material for morphological and molecular analyses (such as gel electrophoresis and PCR), and rigorous data acquisition and analysis culminating in a Master’s Thesis, scientific presentations, and publications.
Benefits and Specific Scholarship Awards of the Western Kentucky University Admission
The Graduate Research Assistantship provides a comprehensive support package, effectively guaranteeing a fully funded experience throughout the duration of the M.S. program. The tiered structure below organizes the financial and academic components of this award.
Tier 1: Western Kentucky University Stonefly M.S. Research Assistantship (Up to Full Funding Value)
- Full Tuition Waiver: This is the highest-value component, covering all academic tuition fees for the duration of the Master’s program.
- Monthly Living Stipend: A fixed monthly allowance is provided to cover living expenses, accommodation, and daily necessities.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive health coverage is included, ensuring the student’s well-being throughout their study period.
Tier 2: Financial Support and Research Stipend
- No IELTS Requirement: The university has a specific provision for candidates, meaning the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam is not required for application.
- Research Material Access: Full access to all necessary lab equipment, molecular biology tools, fieldwork resources, and data analysis software (e.g., ArcGIS).
Tier 3: Core Academic Support
- Mentorship: Direct, dedicated mentorship from Dr. Scott A. Grubbs and staff within the Aquatic Ecology and Systematics Lab.
- Professional Development: Opportunities to prepare and present scientific research at national and international conferences, fostering early career development.
Eligibility Requirements for Western Kentucky University Graduate Assistantship 2026
To be considered for this fully funded Research Graduate Assistantship, candidates must meet the following mandatory and desirable criteria:
- Academic Background: Possess a B.A. or B.S. degree in Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Wildlife and Fisheries, or a closely related scientific field.
- Minimum GPA: A minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75/4.0 (or equivalent) is strictly required.
- Research Focus: A strong willingness and commitment to conduct research primarily on the systematics and conservation of Plecoptera (stoneflies).
- Work Ethic: Evidence of a strong, independent work ethic and the ability to operate effectively within a demanding research environment.
- Desirable Experience: Preference will be given to applicants with relevant experience, including field-based coursework, prior research in freshwater systems, experience with molecular biology lab work (e.g., gel electrophoresis, PCR), and familiarity with ArcGIS software.
- Visa Status: Open to all countries (Global Eligibility); successful international applicants will be supported in the acquisition of a relevant student visa.
How to Apply for Western Kentucky University Graduate Assistantships 2026 (Step by Step)
The application process for this specific research assistantship is streamlined and directed by the faculty supervisor.
- Prepare Required Documents: Compile all necessary application materials: a detailed Resume or CV, a compelling Letter of Intent describing your background, research interests, and career goals, an unofficial copy of your college transcript, and the contact information for three professional references.
- Access Research Webpage: Click the application button below to be redirected to the research webpage for any supplementary project information.
- Submit Application via Email: Email all prepared materials to the faculty supervisor, Dr. Scott A. Grubbs, at scott.grubbs@wku.edu. The subject line must be clearly titled: “STONEFLY MS.”
- Inquiry and Follow-Up: Candidates with specific questions about the research projects can contact Dr. Grubbs directly via the same email address to learn more.
Application Deadline: February 15, 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the Western Kentucky University Graduate Assistantship fully funded?
Yes, this is a fully funded opportunity structured as a Graduate Research Assistantship, covering the recipient’s full tuition, providing a monthly living stipend, and including comprehensive health insurance.
2. Is the IELTS or TOEFL exam required for this application?
No, the information provided explicitly states that there is no IELTS required for candidates applying to this specific M.S. research assistantship.
3. What is the specific research focus of the M.S. program?
The research is highly focused on the systematics and conservation of Plecoptera, commonly known as stoneflies, utilizing an integrative morphological-molecular approach within the Aquatic Ecology and Systematics Lab.
4. What is the minimum required GPA for eligibility?
Applicants must possess a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75/4.0 in their B.A. or B.S. degree in Biology, Ecology, or a closely related field.
5. What documents are required to be submitted?
Required documents include a Letter of Intent, a Resume or CV, an unofficial college transcript, and the contact information for three professional references.
6. Where do I send my application materials?
All application materials must be submitted via email directly to the faculty supervisor, Dr. Scott A. Grubbs, at scott.grubbs@wku.edu, using the subject line “STONEFLY MS.”
7. Is this assistantship open to international students?
Yes, the scholarship is open to candidates from “All Countries,” ensuring global eligibility for both domestic and international applicants.
8. Is prior research experience necessary?
While a 2.75 GPA is mandatory, prior research experience in freshwater systems and experience with lab techniques like PCR/gel electrophoresis are highly desirable qualifications.
9. Is the official application deadline for the assistantship?
The absolute deadline for submitting all application materials is February 15, 2026.
10. Does the award cover travel expenses to the USA?
The provided information confirms a full tuition waiver, monthly stipend, and health insurance. While the stipend contributes to living costs, travel expenses are not explicitly listed as a covered benefit and should be budgeted by the applicant.
