By scholarshipswithaakash@gmail.com 
If you’re passionate about MS or PhD in soil science, biogeochemistry, and environmental sustainability, don’t miss this opportunity to apply for the Forest Soils and Biogeochemistry Graduate Positions at Auburn University for the 2026 academic year. The College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment (CFWE) is recruiting one PhD student and one MS student to join Dr. Yang Yang’s innovative lab at Auburn University (AU), Alabama, USA.
These fully funded graduate positions focus on soil microbial dynamics, climate change, and microplastic pollution in forest ecosystems. Successful candidates will work on real-world environmental challenges using both field and lab-based research, alongside a collaborative, interdisciplinary team.
📅 Start Dates:
- PhD: January 2026
- MS: June 2026
💰 Stipend:
- PhD: $26,500/year + tuition + benefits
- MS: $23,500/year + tuition + benefits
🌿 Program Overview: Research Scope
The Forest Soils and Biogeochemistry Graduate Positions at Auburn University are part of a long-term research initiative in the Southeastern U.S. to improve soil conservation and sustainable forest practices. The incoming graduate students will explore:
- Soil properties and microbial activity under fire and thinning treatments
- Long-term vegetation and litter datasets to assess plant-soil-microbe interactions under changing climate
- Impact of microplastics on forest soil nutrients and microbial processes
Students will collaborate in a three-week field campaign (Summer 2026) across states like Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, collecting and processing soil/litter samples for in-depth lab analysis. The research also supports manuscript preparation and international conference presentations.
🔬 About the Forest Soils and Biogeochemistry Lab
Led by Dr. Yang Yang, the lab focuses on how carbon and nutrients behave in forest ecosystems in response to disturbances like climate change, forest management, and pollution. The team uses:
- Field experiments
- Advanced biogeochemical instrumentation
- Computational statistics
- Lab-scale simulations
🧪 Lab equipment includes:
- Biological Digital Microscope
- Total Organic Carbon Analyzer
- Elemental Analyzer (FlashSmart)
- Programmable Muffle Furnace
- Thermostatic Incubators
- Deionized water systems
- Fumigation setups and more
📌 Learn more about the lab: Dr. Yang Yang’s Profile
🎓 Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
✅ Bachelor’s degree in Forestry, Ecology, Environmental Science, Natural Resources, or related fields
✅ Master’s degree required for PhD applicants
✅ Meet Auburn University Graduate School admission criteria
✅ English language test scores (for international applicants)
✅ Ability to work independently and in a team
💡 AU Graduate School Requirements
🌍 International Admissions Info
Preferred Qualifications:
✔️ Experience in soil/microbial/geochemical analysis
✔️ Field sampling experience using GPS and vegetation plots
✔️ Quantitative skills and scientific writing
✔️ Valid driver’s license (or ability to obtain one)
🧾 Responsibilities
Graduate students accepted into the Forest Soils and Biogeochemistry Graduate Positions at Auburn University will:
- Conduct literature reviews and develop lab/field protocols
- Attend weekly lab meetings and participate in collaborative research discussions
- Collect and analyze environmental data from field sites
- Prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals
- Present at conferences nationally and internationally
📥 How to Apply
📧 Email your application (PDF format) to Dr. Yang Yang at yangy@auburn.edu
Subject line: “Potential Graduate Student at AU”
Application Materials (combined into one PDF):
- Cover letter (max 1 page) – include research interests, experience & career goals
- Resume/CV – include contact info for 3 references
- Unofficial transcripts
🗓️ Deadline: Applications reviewed on a rolling basis until August 31, 2025
📞 Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for virtual interviews
⚠️ Final admission also requires:
- Official transcripts
- English test scores (if applicable)
- 3 letters of recommendation
📚 About Auburn University
Located in Auburn, Alabama, Auburn University is a top-tier research institution renowned for its programs in environmental science, forestry, and natural resources. With access to rich forest ecosystems in the Southeastern U.S. and advanced lab facilities, AU offers an excellent research and academic environment.
💡 More info: CFWE Graduate Programs
🔑 SEO Focus Keyword:
Forest Soils and Biogeochemistry Graduate Positions at Auburn University
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🌟 Why You Should Apply
- Join a fully funded graduate program in a top U.S. research university
- Work on real-world forest health and soil biogeochemistry problems
- Access high-end equipment and mentorship from Dr. Yang Yang
- Gain field experience across the southeastern U.S.
- Publish papers and attend international conferences
- Launch a successful career in research, academia, or environmental consulting
📨 Need Help with Your Application?
We offer assistance with:
- ✅ Research Proposal Writing
- ✅ Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- ✅ CV and transcript formatting
- ✅ Application proofreading and packaging
📧 Contact: scholarshipswithaakash@gmail.com
Let us help you prepare a strong, competitive application!
🔗 Internal & External Links
- 🔗 Dr. Yang Yang’s Profile
- 🔗 Graduate Admissions – Auburn University
- 🔗 International Student Requirements
- 🔗 Scholarships with Aakash
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