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The Johnson Laboratory at the University of Colorado is seeking a highly motivated Ph.D. student to join our research program in marine disease ecology and conservation beginning in Fall 2027. This project offers a unique opportunity to investigate an emerging parasite outbreak in coral reef ecosystems, combining fieldwork in the Caribbean, laboratory experiments, archival museum research, behavioral ecology, and quantitative modeling. The position is supported through federal funding and includes opportunities for conference travel and interdisciplinary collaborations. The selected student will join a collaborative and highly supportive research group dedicated to understanding how parasites shape ecological communities and ecosystem function.

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Quantifying the emergence and ecological consequences of a marine parasite outbreak

Parasites are increasingly recognized as important drivers of ecological change, yet their effects on marine ecosystems remain poorly understood. This project focuses on Black Spot Syndrome (BSS), a parasitic disease that causes visible lesions on reef fishes and is increasing in parts of the Caribbean. Because BSS disproportionately affects herbivorous fishes that play critical roles in maintaining coral reef health, understanding its emergence may have important implications for reef conservation and management.

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The selected student will help address questions such as:

• How have the prevalence, infection intensity, and geographic distribution of Scaphanocephalus changed across the Caribbean over the past 150 years?
• What environmental and ecological factors drive variation in disease risk across local and regional scales?
• How do parasite infections alter fish behavior and influence ecosystem processes?

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Research approaches may include Caribbean field studies, behavioral experiments, analysis of historical museum collections, spatial and ecological modeling, and participation in outreach and education programs in both Colorado and the Caribbean.

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Desired qualifications

We welcome applicants with interests in disease ecology, marine biology, conservation biology, parasitology, ecology, fisheries, or related disciplines. Experience in any of the following is particularly valuable: marine fieldwork, snorkeling or SCUBA diving, boat operations, fisheries sampling, quantitative ecology and statistics, geographic information systems (GIS), and experimental design and data analysis.

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Application materials

Please submit a single PDF containing:

• Curriculum vitae
• Statement of research interests and previous research experience including relevant marine field experience (e.g., fishing, boating, snorkeling, SCUBA diving)
• Explanation of why you are interested in this project and the Johnson Laboratory
• Description of your long-term career goals

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Please email application materials to Pieter.Johnson@colorado.edu with the subject line:

"Marine Prospective Graduate Student"

Applications received by October 4, 2026 will receive full consideration.