PhD student: environmental hydrology
Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas
- Start
- August 2027
- Stipend
- $37,000 per year plus benefits
- Funding
- 4.5 years
- Degree
- PhD in Integrative and Applied Biology
- Background
- MS degree preferred
- Apply by
- November 30, 2026
The student's research will focus on how hydrologic variability, climate change and human activities shape river and stream ecosystems. Fieldwork will likely center on rivers of the Texas Hill Country.
Texas rivers are changing fast: floods are getting flashier, droughts longer, and streams that once flowed year-round now go dry. The student will help work out what that means for the rivers and the life in them, combining long-term gauge and climate records, watershed models and fieldwork. The project can grow in one of three directions:
- Rivers on the edge of drying. When, where and why do Hill Country streams stop flowing, and what happens to connectivity and aquatic life when they do?
- Forecasting rivers in a hotter, thirstier Texas. Use SWAT+ and data-driven models to project how climate, land use and water demand will reshape floods, low flows and environmental flows.
- Linking flow to life. Pair hydrology with environmental DNA and field biodiversity data to find the flow conditions that keep rivers diverse and functioning.
The student will shape the final direction together with Dr. Chattopadhyay, and will also lead one chapter that uses large-scale existing data or synthesizes existing research.
Who we are looking for
A background in hydrology, water resources engineering, environmental science, earth sciences, ecology or a related field. Experience with hydrologic modelling, GIS, R, Python or statistics is desirable. Strong quantitative skills and an interest in interdisciplinary research are especially welcome. Applicants from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, and international applicants are welcome.
What the position involves
Mentoring undergraduate researchers, being a collaborative member of the group and taking part in Biology Department activities. The student will teach as a teaching assistant for 4 semesters. Funds are available to attend one national and one regional conference each year.
How to apply
Apply through the online application form. It asks for your CV, short answers about your interests and experience, and contact details for two references. Please do not apply by email; all applications are handled through the form.
The deadline to apply is November 30, 2026. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed in December, and the selected candidate will then submit a full application to the Texas State Graduate College by its February 1, 2027 deadline.