Summary
The Wetland and Aquatic Biogeochemistry Lab at Louisiana State University (LSU) is offering a fully funded PhD Assistantship. The selected student will conduct field-based research investigating phosphorus dynamics and harmful algal blooms (HABs) in coastal river and estuary systems across southeastern Louisiana.
Fully Funded PhD Assistantship in Aquatic Biogeochemistry at Louisiana State University
Position Details
| Feature | Details |
| Designation | PhD Assistant |
| Research Area | Aquatic Biogeochemistry, Nutrient Cycling, Soil Chemistry, and Environmental Management |
| Location | Baton Rouge, Louisiana |
| Stipend/Salary | Starting at $31,000 per year (plus 75% of health insurance premiums covered) |
| Hours per Week | At least 20 hours |
| Starting Date | After January 1, 2027 |
| Application Deadline | September 30, 2026 |
Eligibility & Qualifications
Required:
- Must hold (or will soon complete) a Master’s degree (MS) in environmental science, biogeochemistry, oceanography, ecology, or a closely related field.
- Comfortable conducting strenuous fieldwork in aquatic and estuarine environments.
- Demonstrated interest or experience in nutrient analysis, sediment chemistry, or water-quality monitoring.
- Self-motivated with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
Preferred:
- A previous publication record.
- Experience with analytical chemistry techniques.
Job Description
The funded PhD student will lead a project investigating how land-use change, internal sediment loading, and seasonal hydrology drive phosphorus availability and water-quality impairment in the Lake Pontchartrain Estuary and its tributaries.
Key Responsibilities:
- Leading field-based research and river transect sampling.
- Conducting high-resolution water-quality monitoring.
- Performing intact sediment core incubation studies.
- Executing phosphorus fractionation analysis to aid watershed and HAB mitigation efforts.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should email their application materials directly to Dr. John White at lsuwabl@outlook.com.
Your application email must include:
- A current CV.
- A brief statement of your research interests.
- Contact information for three professional references.
Important Note: The employer prefers email contact. Any communication attempted outside of the designated application email address will not be considered.
Last Date to Apply
September 30, 2026
