Open Research Positions
Graduate Research Assistant (PhD)
The Irrigation & Digital Agriculture Laboratory at the Panhandle Research, Extension and Education Center (PREEC), Department of Biological Systems Engineering (BSE), University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) is seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join our research group in summer/fall 2025. The successful candidate will collaborate with a multi-institutional and interdisciplinary team focusing on irrigation management and weather intelligence, while contributing to the development of educational programs for twoyear colleges, high schools, agricultural producers, and other stakeholders. This position is based at PREEC in Scottsbluff, NE, with periodic time required on the main campus for coursework completion.
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Our diverse student population continue to thrive and lead in different roles and fields
Jobs for recent graduates include
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application fee?
$50 – All applicants unless for currently enrolled UNL students
$25 – Currently enrolled UNL students (graduate and undergraduate)
The BSE Department does not provide application fee waivers. Application fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
What are the GRE requirements?
Applicants are not required to submit GRE scores to the department.
Do I need to secure an advisor before admission is granted?
Yes, every graduate student in our program is required to have an advisor. If you’re applying for a master’s degree, you can be admitted before securing an advisor, but you must be matched with one before starting the program. For PhD applicants, having an advisor is a prerequisite for admission. To find an advisor, reach out to faculty members whose research interests align with yours and express your interest in becoming their advisee.
What funding options, scholarships, or financial aid are available for graduate students?
Graduate students have various opportunities to apply or be nominated for awards, scholarships, and fellowships throughout their time in the program. One key funding option is the Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA), which is supported by faculty advisors. To secure this type of funding, you should connect with faculty members whose research aligns with your interests and express your desire to serve as their research assistant. We do not offer Graduate Teaching Assistantships in our program.
By what date must applications be submitted?
We review applications on a rolling basis, meaning there is no fixed deadline for submission. We will only review complete applications, meaning all application materials have been submitted and three letters of recommendation have been obtained. For optimal consideration, we recommend completing your application by September 1st for the Spring semester and by January 15th for the Fall semester.
What does a Graduate Research Assistantship Cover?
As a Graduate Research Assistant, you will be given an annual stipend of around $30,000. You will also be provided with tuition coverage, and 79% of health insurance. You will be responsible for paying all student fees, and the remaining 21% of your health insurance premium.
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