About the Project:
We are seeking a motivated student interested in pursuing a master's degree to work with our Minnesota Sea Grant fisheries and aquaculture team in St. Paul as a graduate student in the Conservation Sciences Graduate Program at the University of Minnesota (MNSG Fisheries and Aquaculture).
The project goal is to refine indoor aquaculture methods for Golden Shiner (Notemigonus crysoleucas), a popular baitfish species used by recreational anglers in the Great Lakes and Midwest regions. Golden Shiner are often in short supply as bait due to declines in wild capture. One way to alleviate these shortages is by growing Golden Shiner indoors in recirculating aquaculture systems.
The successful candidate for this position will work to increase the efficiency of Golden Shiner production by experimenting with early larval feeds and optimal fish density in indoor systems.
In addition to the research component of this project, the graduate student will have the opportunity to assist in the development of an outreach program engaging K-12 teachers in Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin in using small baitfish aquaculture systems as teaching tools in the classroom. Work on this project as a graduate student will include conducting lab studies and demonstrations with larval and adult Golden Shiner in flow-through and recirculating aquaculture systems and the opportunity to work with K-12 teachers and students to integrate aquaculture into the classroom.
Benefits:
This position includes a tuition waiver, health insurance, and stipend of $29,000 per year.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s Degree in biology, ecology, or a related field with an emphasis on aquaculture and/or fisheries. Excellent written and oral communication skills, strong attention to detail, and the ability to work independently. Experience with fish husbandry and aquaculture system construction preferred.
About Minnesota Sea Grant:
Minnesota Sea Grant is part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Sea Grant Program, which supports 34 similar programs in coastal states throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. It receives funding through the NOAA Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research and the University of Minnesota. Minnesota Sea Grant partners with local, regional and national organizations and is an integral member of the Great Lakes Sea Grant Network.
UMN Conservation Science Graduate Program:
The Conservation Sciences Graduate Program at the University of Minnesota provides world-class graduate training and research opportunities. We prepare leaders to develop effective solutions to conservation and management challenges through understanding coupled biological and human systems.
How to apply:
Please email the materials below to [email protected].
- Cover letter that highlights experiences and interest in graduate training.
- A CV or resume that includes relevant professional experience.
- Contact information for three references.
- A copy of your unofficial transcripts.
Application deadline:
Priority review of applications will begin 12/15/2025 and continue until the position is filled.
Start Date:
After 1/1/2026
Questions?
Contact Amy Schrank: [email protected].
Photo caption: Minnesota Sea Grant's Don Schreiner measures and records Golden Shiners, a popular Minnesotan bait fish, as part of ongoing research to increase Golden Shiner bait production in Minnesota. Image credit: Cait Dettmann/MNSG.