MSc Student Position – Oyster Health and Disease, Auburn University Shellfish Lab

  • Starting Date: 8/17/2026
  • Salary: Starting at $23,175 per year
  • Education Required: Bachelors
  • Location: Auburn University Shellfish Laboratory (Dauphin Island, Alabama)

Description

A Master of Science (MSc) position is available at the Auburn University (start date: August 2026). The student will be hosted by the Auburn University Shellfish Laboratory (P.I. Dr. Andrea M. Tarnecki) in the School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences (SFAAS).

Our mission is to ensure a thriving shellfish community in the United States through globally relevant research, extension and education. To accomplish this, we lead applied research projects aimed to address areas identified directly by the shellfish industry.

Responsibilities and Tasks

Eastern oyster aquaculture is currently faced with high mortalities when close to market size. These mortality events, termed Sudden Unusual Mortality Syndrome (SUMS) are a threat to sustainability of the industry. In this project, the student will focus on research aimed at elucidating the cause(s) of SUMS events. To accomplish this goal, the student will use a combination of laboratory and field experiments to explore biological conditions that may be related to SUMS. Specific studies will focus on microbial community analysis using high-throughput sequencing techniques and parasitic assays. This research will involve coordination with oyster farmers and other researchers at Auburn and other universities. Overall, the students will be expected to conduct research followed by the writing of a detailed thesis.

Qualifications

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate who has:

  • A Bachelor’s degree in biology or similar discipline
  • Knowledge of aquaculture and shellfish physiology
  • A proven ability to carry out results-driven work and fluent with data management systems (i.e., Excel, Word, statistical analysis)
  • Lab competencies in molecular biology and/or -omics technologies would be considered an asset. Please clarify your experiences in the motivating letter.
  • Practical husbandry experience with bivalves will be an asset
  • The ability to cooperate with a goal-oriented team
  • Enthusiasm about learning and participating in oyster hatchery, nursery, and field work
  • IMMEDIATE: Ability to obtain US driver’s license and vehicle, as our research station is off campus

Approval and Enrollment

This graduate appointment is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in the MSc program within the School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences (SFAAS).

Salary and Appointment Terms

These projects will be carried out at the Auburn University Shellfish Lab, which is situated in Dauphin Island.

MSc ($23,175 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 August 2026.

Application

Please submit your application no later than 31 May 2026 at 11:59 PM CDT. Applications must be e-mailed to atarnecki@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)
  • Curriculum vitae with contact information (e-mail and phone numbers) for three references  
  • Unofficial transcripts
  • GRE scores if available (refer to: https://www.ets.org/gre)  

Further information

For further information about the project, please contact Dr. Andrea Tarnecki at atarnecki@auburn.edu.