University of Tennessee at Chattanooga is accepting applications for a master’s graduate assistantship in botanical research and herbarium work. The position offers a $4,500 stipend per semester and a $4,806 tuition and maintenance fee waiver per semester. Applications close on October 2, 2026.
The funding is available for up to six academic semesters, depending on the student’s performance. The post is intended to begin in Spring 2027. Its listing gives different January start dates in separate fields, so applicants should confirm the exact date with the supervisor.
University of Tennessee Assistantship Details
| Scholarship Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Host University | University of Tennessee at Chattanooga |
| Location | United States |
| Degree Level | Master’s Degree |
| Academic Field | Botanical Research and Herbarium Management |
| Graduate Assistantship | Available |
| Stipend | $4,500 per semester |
| Estimated Annual Support | $18,600 |
| Tuition Fee Waiver | $4,806 |
| Assistantship Period | Up to 6 academic semesters |
| Required Work | 20 hours per week |
| Program Start | January 8, 2027 |
| Application Deadline | October 2, 2026 |
What would the student do?
The selected student will work with the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Herbarium, a collection of more than 50,000 plant specimens. The role includes preparing specimens, organising material awaiting processing and completing digitisation work so collection records can be used more easily in research.
There is scope to develop a master’s thesis on subjects such as plant diversity, invasive species, rare plants or conservation. The position also involves organisational work connected to the Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage. It is suited to someone interested in both botanical research and the practical care of a scientific collection.
Who can apply?
Applicants need an undergraduate degree in a related field and a GPA above 3.0. They must also have taken at least one undergraduate botany course, completed comparable training, or can show strong botanical experience. Communication skills and a strong work ethic are required. Previous professional experience is not listed as a requirement.
Experience with specimen databases, basic R or Python skills, and the ability to work with researchers or conservation staff would strengthen an application. The announcement does not state a nationality restriction. Pakistani applicants should still check their academic and admission eligibility with the university before applying. UTC says full time international graduate assistants receive a waiver of international tuition, while other fees remain the student’s responsibility.
How to apply
Candidates must combine a one page cover letter, a CV and contact details for four references into a single PDF. The letter should explain their botanical coursework or experience and how the position fits their educational or career plans. Send the PDF to joey-shaw@utc.edu with “UCHT Herbarium Assistantship” as the email subject by October 2, 2026. The selected candidate will then need to apply separately to UTC’s graduate programme.
