Headline: Recruiting a PhD Student in Dryland Soil Ecology, University of Nevada Las Vegas — Dryland Microbes Lab
Recruiting a PhD Student in Dryland Soil Ecology:
Curious about cryptic cyanobacterial diversity and processes that keep dryland ecosystems stable and resilient? The Pietrasiak Dryland Microbes Lab at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) is recruiting a PhD student for a collaborative, interdisciplinary research program focused on dryland soil ecology. Projects will use genomics, physiology, and ecological data to uncover new cyanobacterial lineages, understand how they adapt to extreme environments, and identify the physiological and genomic mechanisms behind their unique survival strategies — with a particular emphasis on carbon cycling.
What our lab is looking for:
A strong interest and academic record in microbiology, ecology, biology, or a related fieldAbility to work both independently and collaboratively, with a strong work ethicOpenness to working across field biology, lab work, and bioinformaticsPreference given to candidates with prior research experience in microbial, soil, or dryland ecology
Position details:
Fully funded through research and teaching assistantshipsAt least two semesters of teaching required (per department policy)Anticipated start: Fall 2027
About the lab: Learn more about Dr. Pietrasiak’s research at Google Scholar and follow lab updates on BlueSky: @drylandalgae.bsky.social
How to apply:
Please apply directly through the UNLV Graduate Program: https://www.unlv.edu/
Note: Application materials cannot be reviewed prior to formal submission. Please apply through the Graduate College first, then reach out to confirm your application is complete. Applications open in September; the deadline is December 1st, but early applications are strongly encouraged so we can begin conversations sooner.
Minimum admission requirements:
B.S./B.A. in biological sciences or equivalentMinimum GPA of 3.00 (4.00 scale)Relevant research or work experience preferredGRE not requiredFunding: All admitted students receive GA or RA support, including health insurance; GA includes a 9-credit tuition waiver (stipend details: https://www.unlv.edu/