The Bat Acoustic Ecology Scholarship offers a fully funded M.S. graduate research assistantship at the University of West Georgia, focusing on bat acoustic ecology in coastal Alabama. This opportunity provides a stipend, tuition waiver, and field research support for a motivated student.
The University of West Georgia, a public institution in Carrollton, Georgia, hosts the Edelman research lab. The lab specializes in wildlife ecology and conservation, offering students hands-on experience in bat monitoring and habitat assessment across the Gulf Coastal Plain.
Bat Acoustic Ecology Scholarship Benefits
- $1,000 per month from August 2026 through May 2027 ($10,000 total)
- Tuition waiver for Fall/spring semesters (student fees not covered)
- $8,000 per summer for 2027 and 2028 (pending final grant approval)
- Requires medical insurance coverage. If private coverage is not carried, then coverage is available through United Healthcare at the student’s cost.
Bat Acoustic Ecology Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- B.S. in biology, wildlife ecology, or related field with at least a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Must meet all eligibility requirements for employment in U.S.
- Strong experience in ecological/wildlife research at the undergraduate or post-baccalaureate level
- Excellent quantitative, writing, and oral communication skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Willingness to spend time at remote locations
- Ability to hike across rough terrain under a variety of weather conditions while hauling heavy equipment
- Orienteering skills including use of maps, compass, and GPS.
- Valid driver’s license and ability to drive 4WD vehicle
How to Apply for Bat Acoustic Ecology Scholarship
- Email a PDF application containing a short letter of interest, Resume/CV, unofficial transcript, and contact information for two professional references to Dr. Andrew Edelman at [email protected].
- Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Bat Acoustic Ecology Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the Bat Acoustic Ecology Scholarship?
It is a fully funded M.S. graduate research assistantship at the University of West Georgia, focusing on bat acoustic ecology in coastal Alabama. The scholarship includes a stipend, tuition waiver, and field research support.
What are the eligibility criteria for this scholarship?
Applicants must have a B.S. in biology, wildlife ecology, or a related field with at least a 3.0 GPA. They must meet U.S. employment eligibility, have strong ecological research experience, and possess skills in fieldwork, communication, and orienteering.
What benefits does the scholarship provide?
The scholarship offers a $1,000 monthly stipend from August 2026 to May 2027, a tuition waiver for fall/spring semesters, and $8,000 per summer for 2027 and 2028 pending grant approval. Medical insurance is required but not covered.
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline is 07/04/2026. Review of applications begins immediately and continues until the position is filled.
How do I apply for the Bat Acoustic Ecology Scholarship?
Email a PDF with a letter of interest, Resume/CV, unofficial transcript, and contact information for two professional references to Dr. Andrew Edelman at [email protected].
Where will the research be conducted?
The research will be conducted in coastal Alabama, with field sites in forested and coastal environments. A 4×4 truck and dorm housing at Weeks Bay Research Reserve will be provided.
What is the focus of the thesis research?
The thesis research focuses on the distribution, habitat use, and seasonal activity of bats, particularly the endangered northern long-eared bat, using acoustic monitoring and habitat assessments.
What are the preferred qualifications for applicants?
Preferred qualifications include basic training in GIS, R, and statistics, as well as experience with acoustic monitoring, bats, or bioacoustics.
Is the scholarship renewable for a second year?
The second-year salary is contingent on the student applying for available graduate teaching assistantships ($10,000 with a tuition waiver). Summer pay for two years is available pending grant approval.
Who can I contact for more information?
Contact Dr. Andrew Edelman at [email protected], which is the preferred contact method.
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