UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS GRADUATE SCHOLARSHIP 2024
Project Description:
Dr. Rutkoski’s research group is seeking passionate graduate students (Master’s or PhD) to contribute to a project focused on enhancing the profitability of wheat production in the Midwest. Selected students will be hired as research assistants and receive a fully-funded scholarship package.
Responsibilities:
- Conduct independent research in plant breeding and quantitative genetics, focusing on either:
- Improved phenotyping and selection methods for wheat traits crucial to the wheat-soybean double-cropping system’s profitability.
- Predictive breeding methodologies utilizing advancements in genomic prediction and high-throughput phenotyping to accelerate wheat grain yield improvement.
- Participate in wheat cultivar development by leading applied breeding or phenotyping activities.
- Contribute to selection decisions within the University of Illinois soft red winter wheat breeding program.
- Actively engage in research activities such as reading scientific literature, designing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and writing manuscripts for publication.
Eligibility:
- Strong interest in scientific research, including tasks like literature review, experimental design, data collection and analysis, and manuscript writing.
- Passion for applied plant breeding and collaborative teamwork.
- Preference given to applicants with experience in field research programs or applied breeding programs (internships or work experience).
- Prior experience with data analysis and/or statistical programming is a plus.
- For PhD applicants, successful completion of a Master’s degree is highly preferred.
Benefits:
- Competitive monthly stipend:
- Master’s students: $2,453.33
- PhD students: $2,649.60
- Full tuition coverage
- Health insurance
Application Materials:
- Completed application form
- Curriculum vitae
- Contact information for recommenders
- Essay responses (details about essay questions will likely be provided on the application portal)
Note: This information is based on the provided details and may not be exhaustive. It’s crucial to refer to the official application portal for the most up-to-date information and specific requirements.