The Kane Lab at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette is looking for one or more MS and/or PhD students to begin Spring 2025 or later.

Our lab takes physiological, ecological, and evolutionary approaches to understand the morphology and performance of fishes. We are seeking students to contribute to work examining station-holding pectoral and pelvic fin morphology in sculpins and other benthic fishes. Several potential projects are possible – techniques and approaches include (but are not limited to): field collection and lab rearing, 2D and 3D high speed kinematics, linear and geometric morphometrics, scanning electron microscopy, micro-CT scans, acoustic doppler

velocimetry, and swim tunnel respirometry. Initial work would be expected to fit within the scope of current projects but would include flexibility to address additional questions as desired. The Kane Lab is committed to the personal and professional success of lab members and welcomes those from non-traditional or underrepresented backgrounds.

Graduate students at either level will be fully funded (stipend + tuition
wavier) through teaching assistantships and/or institutional fellowships
awarded at the time of acceptance. Dr. Kane is committed to providing
additional summer salary through other sources when possible and has
successfully done so with all students so far. Research costs such as supplies, conference travel, etc. will be covered with current funding and additional proposals for ongoing funding are in preparation. In addition to these sources, Graduate students are expected to apply for supplemental funding from external sources when available to help cover the costs of tangential projects, gain competency with writing, and build professional experience.

The priority deadline for Spring 2025 enrollment is Sep 15, 2024.

Interested students should review the graduate admission requirements provided on the UL Biology Department’s website. If they are eligible for admission, they should then email Dr. Emily Kane at emily.kane@louisiana.edu with a current CV and a statement of interest outlining why they wish to pursue a degree on this project as soon as possible. Note that the Department no longer requires the GRE.

To learn more about this and other work in the lab, see our website at www.thekanelab.com.