Applications are now open for an exciting Master of Science (M.S.) Graduate Research Assistantship at Auburn University’s Berigan Lab in Alabama, USA. This opportunity is ideal for students passionate about wildlife ecology, conservation biology, habitat restoration, and avian research.
The selected student will contribute to a major conservation initiative focused on restoring grassland habitats and improving conditions for declining grassland bird populations across Alabama’s historic Black Belt Prairie region. The position offers a competitive annual stipend, full tuition waiver, and the opportunity to conduct meaningful research that directly contributes to biodiversity conservation in the southeastern United States.
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Opportunity Overview
Position
M.S. Student – Grassland Bird Habitat Restoration
Institution
Auburn University – Berigan Lab
Location
Auburn, Alabama, USA
Funding
$22,600 Annual Stipend + Full Tuition Waiver
Application Deadline
July 15, 2026
About the Research Project
The Berigan Lab at Auburn University is seeking a highly motivated graduate student to evaluate how grassland bird communities respond to large-scale prairie restoration efforts under Alabama’s Black Belt Prairie Initiative (BBPI).
The BBPI is a landmark conservation program supported by approximately $17.5 million in funding dedicated to restoring and conserving native prairie ecosystems throughout Alabama’s Black Belt region. These ecosystems once supported rich biodiversity but have experienced significant habitat degradation over the past century due to land-use changes and vegetation encroachment.
This graduate research project will investigate how restoration practices influence bird populations and habitat quality, providing critical information for future conservation planning and management decisions.
Why Grassland Bird Conservation Matters
Grassland birds are among the most rapidly declining bird groups in North America. Habitat loss, fragmentation, invasive species, and changes in land management practices have contributed to significant population declines across many species.
Native prairie ecosystems provide essential breeding, nesting, and foraging habitats for numerous bird species. Conservationists increasingly recognize that habitat restoration is one of the most effective strategies for reversing these declines.
Through this research project, the successful student will help generate scientific evidence that supports sustainable habitat restoration and wildlife conservation efforts throughout the southeastern United States.
Research Responsibilities
The selected M.S. student will play an active role in field research, data collection, habitat assessment, and ecological analysis.
Avian Surveys
The student will conduct bird surveys across restored and unmanaged grassland habitats to evaluate species diversity, abundance, occupancy, and habitat use.
Responsibilities include:
- Identifying bird species by sight and sound
- Conducting point-count surveys
- Monitoring seasonal bird activity
- Recording habitat associations
- Assessing population responses to restoration efforts
Vegetation Monitoring
Understanding habitat quality is critical for evaluating restoration success.
The student will conduct vegetation surveys that may include:
- Plant species identification
- Vegetation structure measurements
- Ground cover assessments
- Habitat quality evaluations
- Monitoring ecological changes over time
Habitat Restoration Assessment
A major component of the project involves evaluating common restoration practices used throughout the Black Belt Prairie Initiative.
Research activities may focus on assessing the effectiveness of:
Cedar Removal
Many prairie systems have become overgrown with eastern red cedar, reducing habitat suitability for grassland birds. The project will investigate bird responses following cedar removal efforts.
Prescribed Fire
Prescribed burning is a widely used management tool that helps maintain native prairie ecosystems by controlling woody vegetation and promoting native plant growth.
Warm-Season Grass Establishment
The study will evaluate how the restoration of native warm-season grasses influences habitat quality and bird community composition.
Data Analysis and Scientific Communication
In addition to fieldwork, the student will analyze ecological data and contribute to scientific publications and presentations.
Expected activities include:
- Statistical analysis
- Research report writing
- Thesis development
- Conference presentations
- Scientific manuscript preparation
This experience will provide excellent preparation for careers in research, wildlife management, conservation organizations, and doctoral studies.
What Makes This Opportunity Unique?
Large-Scale Conservation Impact
The project is directly linked to a $17.5 million conservation initiative, providing a rare opportunity to contribute to one of the largest prairie restoration efforts in the southeastern United States.
Extensive Field Experience
Students will gain hands-on experience in wildlife monitoring, habitat restoration assessment, ecological research methods, and conservation science.
Professional Development
The position provides valuable opportunities to:
- Work with experienced conservation scientists
- Build advanced research skills
- Develop scientific communication abilities
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams
- Network with wildlife professionals
Graduate Education Support
The assistantship includes both financial support and academic mentorship, allowing students to focus on research and professional growth.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should meet the following qualifications:
Educational Background
Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in:
- Biology
- Wildlife Ecology
- Conservation Biology
- Environmental Science
- Natural Resource Management
- Or a closely related discipline
Bird Identification Skills
Applicants should have the ability to identify southeastern United States bird species through:
- Visual observation
- Bird vocalizations and songs
Previous avian field experience is highly desirable.
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Driver’s License
A valid driver’s license is required due to extensive fieldwork and travel between study sites.
Communication Skills
Strong written and verbal communication skills in English are essential for:
- Scientific writing
- Data reporting
- Collaboration with research teams
- Presentations and outreach activities
Personal Qualities
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
- Self-motivation
- Strong work ethic
- Problem-solving ability
- Independence in field settings
- Teamwork and interpersonal skills
- Interest in conservation science
Benefits of the Position
Selected candidates will receive:
Annual Stipend
$22,600 per year
Full Tuition Waiver
Complete tuition support throughout the graduate program
Research Experience
Extensive field and analytical research training
Professional Networking
Opportunities to connect with researchers, conservation practitioners, and wildlife professionals
Career Advancement
Excellent preparation for careers in:
- Wildlife Biology
- Conservation Science
- Ecological Research
- Environmental Consulting
- Government Agencies
- Non-Profit Conservation Organizations
- Doctoral Programs
Application Process
Interested applicants should submit a single PDF document containing:
Required Materials
- Cover Letter
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Unofficial Academic Transcripts
- GRE Scores (if available)
- English Proficiency Scores (for international applicants)
- Contact Information for Three Professional References
Email Submission
Applications should be emailed directly to:
Dr. Liam Berigan
📧 lib0016@auburn.edu
Subject Line
Black Belt MS Application
Applicants are encouraged to submit their materials well before the deadline to ensure full consideration.
Why Auburn University?
Auburn University is recognized for excellence in wildlife ecology, natural resources research, and conservation science. Graduate students benefit from strong faculty mentorship, modern research facilities, and extensive field research opportunities throughout the southeastern United States.
The Berigan Lab provides a collaborative environment where students can conduct impactful research while developing the skills needed for successful careers in ecology and conservation.
Final Thoughts
The M.S. opportunity in Grassland Bird Habitat Restoration at Auburn University offers an exceptional chance to combine graduate education with meaningful conservation research. Students passionate about wildlife ecology, habitat restoration, and bird conservation will gain valuable field experience while contributing to a major ecological restoration initiative.
With a competitive stipend, full tuition waiver, and the opportunity to work on real-world conservation challenges, this position represents an excellent pathway toward a successful career in wildlife biology and environmental research.
Application Deadline: July 15, 2026
Begin preparing your application today and take the next step toward becoming a conservation scientist dedicated to protecting grassland ecosystems and bird biodiversity.
Masters in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Apply now
- What is the application deadline for this M.S. opportunity?The application deadline is July 15, 2026.
- What financial support is offered?The selected student will receive a $22,600 annual stipend along with a full tuition waiver.
- What research will the student conduct?The student will study grassland bird responses to prairie restoration efforts, including avian surveys, vegetation monitoring, and habitat restoration assessments.
- How can I apply?Email a single PDF containing your cover letter, CV, unofficial transcripts, GRE scores (if available), English proficiency scores (for international applicants), and three references to lib0016@auburn.edu with the subject line "Black Belt MS Application."
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