Prospective Graduate Students

Graduate school is challenging and competitive, and admission requires both funding and a strong application. Students are only accepted if they have solid academic credentials (high GPA and, if required, strong GRE scores), excellent writing skills, relevant research experience, and outstanding references from researchers. If this sounds like you and your research interests align with the work in our lab, I encourage you to reach out!

It’s best to begin the conversation early—ideally in the fall—if you are aiming to start the following academic year. Please email me with the following materials:

• An updated CV
• Unofficial transcripts and (if required) GRE scores
• A one-page statement of your research interests, motivations, and career goals
• Contact information for at least three references (at least one should be academic)
• Copies of any publications or manuscripts you’ve co-authored

Once I’ve had a chance to review your materials, we can discuss whether it makes sense to move forward.

I also require that all prospective students meet with me—either in person or virtually—before any admission decisions are made. We spend long hours together in the field and in the lab, often in close quarters, so it’s critical that you are collaborative, professional, and able to work well as part of a team.

Fellowship and assistantship decisions are typically made in early February, so your application materials and visit to UF (or our field lab) should be completed by then. If you already have external funding, such as an NSF Graduate Research Fellowship, this timeline may be more flexible.

Please visit both the Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences and SNRE program websites to learn more about their application processes and educational focuses. I can advise students who enroll through either program.

I look forward to hearing from motivated, thoughtful applicants who are excited to contribute to our team!

Prospective Undergraduate Interns and Volunteers

I welcome hardworking and enthusiastic undergraduate students and volunteers who are interested in marine ecology and eager to gain research experience at any time!

If you’d like to intern or volunteer in the lab, please email me with a brief explanation of your interests, background, and motivations. Once I’ve reviewed your message, we can discuss potential opportunities to get you involved and immersed in marine science!