University of Maine Scholarship 2026 offers an exceptional fully funded opportunity for international students aiming to pursue advanced research and graduate studies in the USA. This prestigious program provides comprehensive financial support, including full tuition coverage, health insurance, and a competitive annual stipend of $30,000 throughout the duration of the degree. Designed to attract passionate scholars, the scholarship opens the door to world-class research facilities and expert academic supervision at one of the leading institutions in Maine.
Under the guidance of renowned faculty members such as Dr. Joseph Zydlewski and Dr. Christina Murphy, selected candidates will join impactful research projects focused on Atlantic salmon migration challenges and the thermal environments influencing cold-water species like brook trout. This scholarship provides not only financial security but also the opportunity to contribute to meaningful ecological research. In this guide, you will find detailed information about eligibility, benefits, and the complete application process to help you submit a strong and successful application.
Benefits
The University of Maine Scholarship 2026 offers a graduate assistantship that includes;
- $30,000 stipend per year,
- $3,157 health, and
- $7,241 tuition (estimated). Funding is renewed annually for 4.5 years.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the University of Maine Scholarships, you must:
- Have an M.S. in biology or equivalent, quantitative skills, interest in fisheries science, and excellent work ethic.
- Have a desire to work in a collaborative and supportive graduate student community.
- A GPA of 3.2+ is desired.
- Show willingness to learn.
- Have good communication skills are essential
Required Documents
To apply, candidates must be ready to submit the following documents;
- Cover Letter
- CV
- transcript (unofficial okay)
- Reference letters
- GRE scores/percentiles (optional)
How To Apply?
- Click the Apply Now below to go directly to the official program webpage and read the full details of the position.
- Prepare your application materials, including your CV, cover letter, transcripts, and contact information for your references.
- Email all required documents to Joe Zydlewski at [email protected]. Use the subject line “Atlantic Salmon” or “Thermal”, depending on the project you are applying for.
- Submit your email before the review period begins. Application review will start on December 31, 2025.
- Selected candidates can expect the anticipated start date to be May 1, 2026, or another mutually arranged date.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This scholarship offers two new PhD-level research assistantships at University of Maine for 2026, focusing on fish habitat and Atlantic salmon bioenergetics. Selected students get full funding — stipend, health support, tuition waiver, over 4.5 years. Applicants need an M.S. in a related field and must apply with a CV, transcripts, references, and cover letter before Dec 31, 2025.
What types of positions are available under University of Maine Scholarship 2026?
At present, the available positions are PhD-level within the wildlife/conservation biology department. The listing shows no MS (master’s) positions available at this time.
What are the main research topics in the University of Maine Scholarship 2026?
Two projects are open: one is a “Thermal imagery-based analyses of fish habitat,” focusing on thermal environments for cold water fish species. The other is an “Atlantic Salmon Bioenergetics” project, modeling the costs of migration delays for adult Atlantic salmon.
What financial support does the University of Maine Scholarship 2026 provide?
Selected PhD candidates receive a stipend of US $30,000 per year, plus estimated health support of about $3,157 and a tuition allowance of around $7,241. Funding is renewable annually over the expected 4.5-year program.
What are the minimum academic qualifications required to apply?
Applicants should hold an M.S. in biology, ecology, GIS, or a related field. Quantitative skills, interest in aquatic or landscape science, good work ethics, and a desired GPA of 3.2 or above are required.
Who should I contact when applying, and how?
Send your application materials — cover letter, CV, transcripts, three references (names and contact only), and optionally GRE scores — to Joe Zydlewski via the provided contact email. Use the subject heading “Thermal” or “Atlantic Salmon” depending on the project.
When does the review period start for the University of Maine Scholarship 2026?
Review of applications begins on December 31, 2025. The anticipated start date for selected candidates is May 1, 2026, or another date arranged with the supervisor.
Are candidates from underrepresented or non-traditional backgrounds encouraged to apply?
Yes, the listing explicitly encourages applications from non-traditional and underrepresented groups for both projects, promoting inclusivity in the selection process.
What kind of skills or experience is desirable besides academic credentials?
Experience (or willingness to learn) in field ecology, GIS, database management, telemetry or physiological monitoring, fish culture, and quantitative modeling is desirable. Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with partners are also important.
How long does funding last under the University of Maine Scholarship 2026?
The assistantship is designed to support students for approximately 4.5 years, with annual renewal based on progress. This period covers the expected duration of the PhD program and provides stability throughout the research phase.
If I am not selected this year, is there a chance for more openings?
Currently, the listing shows “NEW” PhD positions as of late November 2025. Because the department indicates MS positions are “None at this time,” future openings are uncertain — interested candidates should check back periodically.
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