IMG_7412 copy.JPG

Interested in joining us?

Prospective Undergraduate Students

We are always looking for undergraduate students who are interested in gaining research experience. During Fall and Spring semester, we have projects that can be completed at the NU Marine Science Center. We also have several competitive summer paid positions available each year. Ideal candidates will have some background or interest in ecology and/or marine biology. Some positions involve occasional long hours under less than ideal conditions in the field or greenhouse. If you are interested or would like more information, please send an email with the words UNDERGRAD ASSISTANT in the subject line to rhughes[at]neu.edu. Please include a brief (3-5 sentence) description of your background and research interests.

Prospective Graduate Students

I may take a new PhD students in Fall 2023.

I welcome curious and creative students who are excited about pursuing graduate studies in marine ecology and conservation.  I am happy for students to work on ongoing research projects in my lab or pursue separate topics of mutual interest.  Either way, my goal is for my students to develop independent research projects of broad scientific interest that can inform conservation and management strategies. 

I strive to provide my students with both the intellectual and financial resources that they need to succeed.  I maintain a lab of 4-6 (mostly PhD) graduate students, 1-3 postdocs, and 1-2 undergraduates.  I encourage my students to seek independent funding for their research for 2 reasons: 1) External funding allows greater flexibility and time for pursuing research; and 2) The ability to garner research funding is a critical component of success as a scientist, whether your goal is academia, government, NGO, or private sector employment.

Because we are a community, lab dynamics and cohesion are important to me.  I am most interested in students who not only have a strong work ethic and desire to conduct research but also an ability to communicate effectively and work well with others. Prior to a decision by you or me, it will be important for you to talk with my current students to make sure we are a good fit.

If you are interested in talking with me about graduate opportunities in my lab, please:

  1. Contact me via email with the following information - research interests, research experience, educational background (e.g., GPA, relevant coursework)

  2. Go to the Northeastern University Graduate Studies website for application information for the Marine and Environmental Sciences program. Deadline: December 15.

  3. Begin thinking about potential independent funding sources for your research. Some potential US-based ones include: National Science Foundation Graduate Fellowship, Ford Foundation Diversity Fellowships