Start Date: Fall 2027

Location: Southern Illinois University – Carbondale, Illinois

Salary range: min $1,804/month (academic year) + summer salary (negotiable) + full tuition waiver + health care access. Please note that university fees cannot be waived and are the responsibility of the student.

Funding: Teaching Assistantship (academic year) + Research Assistantship or TA (summer).

Application Deadline: November 06th, 2026

About the opportunity

Join our lab to investigate mechanisms that promote native plant recovery and resistance to reinvasion following invasive plant management in Southern Illinois forest understories. Research may examine different aspects of community assembly, and there is substantial flexibility for students to develop their own interests while combining observational studies with manipulative experiments. This position is ideal for students who want to develop strong skills in plant community ecology, quantitative ecology, scientific writing and experimental set up.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applications from curious, motivated students who are excited about fieldwork and ecological research. Successful candidates will have:

• A M.Sc. in ecology, biology, environmental science, or a related field OR post-baccalaureate experience OR equivalent

• Some experience with quantitative ecology, R, excel, and data analysis

• Plant identification skills and interest (required, but from any region)

• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions

• A valid driver’s license

• Strong communication skills and interest in publishing research

How to Apply

• Submit a single PDF that includes: (1) cover letter summarizing your qualifications and interest in the position; (2) CV; (3) Unofficial transcripts; (4) Contact information for three references.

• Email your application to Laís Petri (lais.petri@siu.edu) with the subject line: “PhD Position Fall 2027”. Applications that do not follow the instructions won’t be considered. More information on our lab research, visit: www.laispetri.com.

I am always interested in hearing from motivated students who are excited about forest ecology, grassland ecology, global change ecology (particularly in plant invasions), and plant community assembly. If you have your own ideas for projects or if you are considering applying for external fellowships or other funding opportunities, I encourage you to reach out to discuss potential directions. You can find detailed information on available funding opportunities at SIU here.

Students should contact me before submitting a formal application to SIU.