University of Idaho Scholarship 2026 is an exceptional fully funded opportunity for both domestic and international graduate students who aspire to advance their skills and expertise in range science. This prestigious scholarship provides comprehensive support, including tuition coverage, $31,000 per year in living expenses, and free housing, allowing students to focus entirely on research and academic growth.
The University of Idaho Graduate Scholarship places selected candidates at the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Department of Animal, Veterinary, and Food Sciences, with hands-on work conducted at the Nancy M. Cummings Research, Extension, and Education Center (NMCREEC). Successful applicants will lead teams, collaborate with cattle producers, and engage with scientists as well as state and federal land management agencies. This post contains all the details on eligibility, benefits, and the step-by-step application process for interested students.
Benefits
- The University of Idaho Scholarship offers a salary of $31,000/year.
- The successful candidate will be given the opportunity to develop and execute their own relevant research objective(s) that will complement the funded research.
- Professional development opportunities will include scientific design and implementation, scientific writing for peer-reviewed journals, attending and presenting at scientific and stakeholder meetings, stakeholder engagement and outreach, multidisciplinary training and networking, team leadership and management, project coordination, and grant writing, among others.
- In addition to the stipend, this position offers housing in an on-site dormitory with individual sleeping area and a common living area with other graduate students or seasonal interns/technicians (successful candidate will not be required to stay in the dormitory).
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the University of Idaho Scholarship 2026, you must:
- Hold a completed Master’s degree in a related field within 3 months of starting this position.
- Have excellent leadership and communication skills.
- Have excellent interpersonal skills, attention to detail, a strong work ethic, and a valid driver’s license.
- Show willingness to conduct field research under rigorous and remote conditions during variable weather conditions.
- Preference will be given to applicants who demonstrate a passion for the industry and have experience in vegetation monitoring, livestock handling, agricultural technologies, and/or geographic mapping (such as ArcGIS or onX).
- Applicants with an established history of publication, grant writing, and experience presenting research findings or to stakeholder groups will also be given preference.
- Experience with any of the following is also beneficial:
- working/living in rural areas, working on ranching/farming operations and/or as a range technician, and operating ATV/UTVs and 4WD vehicles, and towing trailers.
How to Apply?
- Prepare your application materials: a personalized cover letter, an up-to-date resume, and contact information for at least three professional or academic references.
- Write your cover letter clearly explaining your interest in the Virtual Fence – Range Cattle project, your relevant experience, and how you can contribute to the research goals.
- Email all your documents to Melinda Ellison at [email protected]. Make sure to include “Cattle VF – PhD” in the subject line so your application is easily identified.
- Submit your application as early as possible. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and some candidates may be invited for interviews before the official deadline.
- Wait for confirmation and follow-up instructions from the selection team. If shortlisted, prepare for possible interviews to discuss your research experience and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The University of Idaho Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded PhD assistantship in Idaho for candidates with a Master’s degree. Benefits include $31,000 stipend, optional housing, multidisciplinary research experience, flexible start date, and early application preference.
What is the University of Idaho Scholarship 2026 about?
The University of Idaho Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded PhD Graduate Research Assistantship focused on Virtual Fence research for cattle management in rugged rangeland environments.
Who can apply for the University of Idaho Scholarship 2026?
Applicants must hold a completed Master’s degree in a related field within three months of starting. Candidates should have leadership skills, attention to detail, strong work ethics, and the ability to conduct rigorous field research in remote conditions with variable weather.
Where is the University of Idaho Scholarship 2026 located?
The position is based at the Nancy M. Cummings Research, Extension, and Education Center near Salmon, Idaho. Coursework will mostly be completed remotely, but research activities, cattle handling, and data collection will take place locally at NMCREEC.
What is the stipend for this scholarship?
The scholarship provides a starting salary of $31,000 per year.
Additionally, housing is offered in an on-site dormitory with individual and shared common areas, although staying on-site is optional for the candidate.
What are the key responsibilities of the candidate?
The successful candidate will manage a team of Master’s-level students and seasonal technicians. Responsibilities include monitoring virtual fence effectiveness, cattle behavior, grazing utilization, vegetation metrics, and collaborating with scientists and land management agencies.
Are prior experience requirements strict?
No prior experience is required, but applicants with skills in vegetation monitoring, livestock handling, GIS mapping, and rural fieldwork will be preferred.
Applicants with publications, grant writing experience, or stakeholder presentation experience will also have an advantage in selection.
When does the University of Idaho Scholarship 2026 start and end?
The start date is flexible between January 1 and April 13, 2026. The position will continue until completion of the research project, expected between December 1, 2028, and May 31, 2029.
What is the application deadline for the University of Idaho Scholarship 2026?
Applications are reviewed as received and preference is given to submissions before November 15, 2025. Late applications may be considered until the position is filled, but early submission increases chances of consideration for interviews and selection.
How do I apply for the University of Idaho Scholarship 2026?
Applicants must email a cover letter, resume, and at least three references to Melinda Ellison at [email protected]. Include “Cattle VF – PhD” in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and selected candidates may be interviewed before the deadline.
What professional development comes with the University of Idaho Scholarship 2026?
Candidates will gain experience in scientific design, writing, stakeholder engagement, and project leadership. The scholarship also provides networking across disciplines in range science, livestock management, agricultural technology, wildlife habitat, and rural economics.
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