How to Apply

[**Note: Only citizens or nationals of the United States can apply, according to USDA guidelines.]

We are currently seeking applicants able to begin pursuit of a Master of Science in Biology in January or August 2013. In particular, we seek applications from individuals interested in studying microbial ecology in the context of forest restoration ecology. The M.S. fellow would join the research laboratory of Dr. Colin Jackson, but might also find opportunities for collaborative research with Drs. Steve Brewer, Jason Hoeksema, and Brice Noonan. Additional information about the latter three faculty, and about the Department of Biology in general, can be found at the Department of Biology website: http://olemiss.edu/depts/biology/

Applicants are encouraged to browse the department website, read about the expertise of the four participating faculty, and to contact one or more faculty (including Dr. Jackson) to express an interest in working with them. The application process has two steps, both of which should be completed immediately (for January 2013 admission) or before February 1, 2013 (for August 2013 admission):

  • First, an online application to the University of Mississippi Graduate School should be completed. The online application can be found here. Be sure to follow all instructions on the website in detail, including making arrangements for official GRE scores and transcripts to be sent directly to the UM Graduate School.
  • In addition to the requirements on the Graduate School online application, the Department of Biology also requires:
    • Statement of Interest (mailed by snail mail to the address below): A typewritten statement of your research interests and career goals, including a description of your interest in pursuing a career in forest ecosystem restoration ecology and management, and your interest in being considered for a USDA Graduate Fellowship in Forest Restoration Ecology. In addition, the statement should express any specific ideas you might have about how to integrate microbial ecology and forest restoration ecology. Ideally, this statement will reflect specific research ideas that have arisen in your correspondence with Dr. Jackson.
    • Three letters of recommendation (these should be mailed directly from the recommenders to the address below)

Address to which the latter materials should be sent:

Chair of Graduate Studies
Department of Biology
214 Shoemaker Hall
University of Mississippi
University, MS 38677

Please address general questions about the program to Dr. Steve Brewer: jbrewer at olemiss.edu, 662-915-1077.