The University of Minnesota in the United States (US) has announced a funded Masters research opportunity in Conservation Sciences, offering an annual salary starting at $30,000.
The position is aimed at candidates interested in wildlife conservation, environmental research, community-based studies and Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
According to an opportunity published on the Texas A&M University Natural Resources Job Board on 19 October 2026, the successful applicant will work on a conservation project in partnership with White Earth Natural Resources in Minnesota.
The position requires at least 40 hours of work per week. Previous professional experience is not mandatory, and the application deadline is 30 November 2026.
The opportunity is available through the Conservation Sciences Graduate Program at the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities in St. Paul.
The selected student will join the Umana Laboratory and work on a project titled Revitalising Hunting, Fishing and Trapping in White Earth Using Participatory GIS.
Researchers Christopher Shaffer and Marissa Milstein are leading the project, which aims to understand why participation in hunting, fishing and trapping activities has declined among Indigenous communities.
These activities are important to local cultural traditions, livelihoods, food security and access to traditional food sources.
The research will examine barriers to participation and develop a community-based GIS to support education, the exchange of traditional knowledge and natural resource management.
The selected candidate will take part in community engagement, participatory mapping and research using qualitative and quantitative methods.
The advertised position offers an annual salary starting at $30,000, equivalent to at least $2,500 per month before taxes, based on the stated annual figure.
The role requires a minimum commitment of 40 hours per week.
The university also offers financial support through research assistantships, teaching assistantships and fellowships within its Conservation Sciences Graduate Program.
Eligible graduate assistants may receive tuition benefits and health insurance coverage, depending on their appointment. However, the specific research advertisement does not confirm whether this position includes a tuition waiver, health insurance or additional financial support.
Applicants are advised to contact the university to confirm the full funding package before accepting an offer.
Eligibility criteria
Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree in wildlife, ecology, anthropology or a related discipline.
Candidates must have basic knowledge of Geographic Information Systems and an interest in developing their technical skills.
The university is also seeking applicants interested in mixed-methods research, including qualitative and quantitative approaches.
Other expected skills and qualities include:
· Strong written and verbal communication skills.
· Attention to detail and the ability to conduct independent research.
· An ability to work collaboratively with tribal partners.
· Respect for Indigenous sovereignty and a commitment to building relationships with Indigenous communities.
International applicants who are required to demonstrate English language proficiency must meet the University of Minnesota’s Graduate School admission standards.
The university recognises several English language tests, including IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Duolingo English Test and Cambridge C1 Advanced.
The stated minimum IELTS Academic requirement is an overall score of 6.5, with at least 6.5 in writing and reading.
For Fall 2027 admission and later, the university lists a minimum Duolingo English Test score of 120 overall, including at least 120 in writing and reading.
Applicants taking other tests should check the university’s current score requirements. Individual graduate programmes may set higher standards.
Documents required
Applicants must follow the Conservation Sciences Graduate Program’s admission requirements.
The application materials include:
1. Personal statement: Explaining the applicant’s academic background, research interests, career goals and reasons for pursuing graduate study.
2. Diversity statement: Describing how the applicant would contribute their experiences and perspectives to the university community.
3. Curriculum vitae (CV): Outlining academic qualifications, research experience and relevant skills.
4. Three recommendation letters: Supporting the applicant’s academic and research background.
5. Academic records: Documents required by the Graduate School’s application system.
Prospective students are encouraged to contact potential research supervisors before applying to discuss their research interests and available funding.
How to apply
Interested candidates must apply through the University of Minnesota’s official online Graduate School Application System.
Applicants should review the research opportunity and the Conservation Sciences programme’s admission requirements before preparing their documents and submitting the online application.
Candidates are also encouraged to contact the researchers leading the White Earth project to discuss the research expectations, eligibility requirements and funding arrangements.
The application deadline is 30 November 2026.
