The Gardner lab at the University of Texas at Austin is seeking highly motivated Ph.D. applicants for Fall 2025. Students will work on a research project focused on the fate and non-target impacts of RNAi technologies deployed in the environment. Relevant research tasks for this project include: (i) identifying dominant biological mechanisms driving RNAi fate in environmental microbiomes, (ii) assessing short- and long-term effects of RNAi exposure on microbiome development and function, and (iii) leveraging machine learning tools to build a predictive framework to assess RNAi behavior.
Preferred candidates will have a B.S. or M.S. (or equivalent degree) in environmental engineering or related field. Students should also possess strong analytical, quantitative, and interpersonal skills as demonstrated by academic transcripts, publication records, and/or extracurricular activities. Strong written and verbal communication skills are required. Additional experience with a programming language (e.g., R, Python, etc.), transcriptomics, and/or bioinformatics is also highly desired.
Interested candidates are encouraged to email Dr. Gardner at courtney.gardner@austin.utexas.edu before applying to the Graduate School at UT Austin. Please include your current CV and a personal statement that addresses your background, research interests, and long-term goals. We are motivated to maintain a diverse and inclusive lab environment; students from under-represented groups are encouraged to apply. Additional information about our group can be found at https://www.caee.utexas.edu/people/faculty/faculty-directory/gardner and https://labs.wsu.edu/envmicro.