PhD Assistantship

Job Type
Graduate
Job Institution
University of Texas at Austin
Job Description

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.