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University of Idaho Scholarship 2026 USA

The University of Idaho Scholarship 2026 offers a remarkable opportunity for ambitious graduate students who wish to pursue a PhD in Range Science. Designed for both domestic and international students, this fully funded scholarship covers tuition, provides a $31,000 annual stipend, and offers optional free housing. It enables selected candidates to concentrate fully on research, fieldwork, and academic development without financial concerns.

Overview of the University of Idaho Scholarship 2026

The University of Idaho has a long-standing reputation for advancing agricultural and life sciences research. The Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA) program for 2026 is part of this mission, focusing on Virtual Fence (VF) technology for cattle management across rangeland environments. This PhD assistantship combines innovative research with practical field experience in livestock systems and environmental sustainability.

Successful applicants will be based at the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, within the Department of Animal, Veterinary, and Food Sciences, and will conduct their work at the Nancy M. Cummings Research, Extension, and Education Center (NMCREEC) near Salmon, Idaho.

The position involves collaboration with scientists, producers, and land management agencies to improve rangeland practices through advanced virtual fence systems.

Scholarship Summary

Host Country: United States

University: University of Idaho

Department: Animal, Veterinary, and Food Sciences

Research Site: Nancy M. Cummings Research, Extension, and Education Center (NMCREEC)

Degree Level: PhD

Financial Coverage: Fully Funded

Annual Stipend: $31,000

Deadline: December 1, 2025

Preferred Early Application Date: November 15, 2025

Benefits of the University of Idaho Scholarship

The University of Idaho Scholarship 2026 provides extensive benefits designed to support students academically, professionally, and personally throughout their PhD journey.

Financial Benefits

  • Full tuition waiver for the duration of the PhD program.
  • Annual stipend of $31,000, paid as a graduate assistantship.
  • Free housing option in an on-site dormitory at NMCREEC.

Professional Development Opportunities

Scholars will gain experience in:

  • Scientific research design and implementation.
  • Writing for peer-reviewed journals.
  • Presenting research at academic and stakeholder conferences.
  • Leading and managing multidisciplinary research teams.
  • Project coordination and grant proposal writing.
  • Building professional networks with scientists and agencies in range science.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the University of Idaho Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following academic and professional requirements.

Academic Requirements

  • Hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Range Science, Animal Science, Ecology, or Environmental Studies.

  • The degree must be completed within three months of starting the PhD position.

Skills and Experience

  • Strong leadership and communication abilities.

  • Demonstrated attention to detail and a strong work ethic.
  • A valid driver’s license and willingness to conduct research in remote field locations under varying weather conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in vegetation monitoring, livestock handling, or agricultural technology.
  • Familiarity with geographic mapping software (e.g., ArcGIS, onX).
  • Prior research publications, grant writing experience, or presentation at professional meetings.
  • Experience working in rural settings, ranching, or farming operations.
  • Ability to operate ATVs, 4WD vehicles, and trailers safely.

Applicants with both technical and practical field experience will be given preference.

Key Responsibilities

The PhD candidate will join a dynamic research team studying Virtual Fence technology for cattle management. Responsibilities include:

  • Designing and implementing experiments related to cattle movement, grazing behavior, and vegetation patterns.
  • Managing a small team of Master’s students and research technicians.
  • Collecting and analyzing data on cattle behavior, grazing utilization, and pasture condition.
  • Coordinating with ranchers, scientists, and federal or state land management partners.
  • Writing manuscripts for publication and presenting results at academic or stakeholder events.

This position combines applied research with leadership, offering an opportunity to contribute to sustainable livestock production in challenging rangeland environments.

How to Apply for the University of Idaho Scholarship 2026

The University of Idaho has outlined a clear process for application submission. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early since applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Step 1: Prepare Required Documents

Before applying, prepare the following:

  • A personalized cover letter detailing your interest in the Virtual Fence – Range Cattle project, your background, and your career goals.
  • A current resume or curriculum vitae (CV).
  • Contact information for at least three professional or academic references who can speak to your qualifications and research potential.

Step 2: Submit Your Application

Email all documents to Melinda Ellison at ellison@uidaho.edu with the subject line:

“Cattle VF – PhD.”

Make sure your email includes all attachments and that your materials are clearly labeled.

Step 3: Application Review and Interview

Applications will be reviewed as received, and some candidates may be invited for interviews before the official deadline. Shortlisted applicants will receive instructions for the next steps, including discussions on their research ideas and previous work.

Step 4: Follow Up and Confirmation

Successful candidates will receive confirmation of their selection and further instructions on enrollment, start date, and orientation.

Application Timeline

  • Early Consideration Deadline: November 15, 2025

  • Final Deadline: December 1, 2025
  • Start Date: Flexible between January 1 and April 13, 2026
  • Expected Completion: Between December 2028 and May 2029

Research Environment at the University of Idaho

The University of Idaho provides an exceptional environment for agricultural and environmental research.

The Nancy M. Cummings Research, Extension, and Education Center (NMCREEC) is known for its advanced facilities dedicated to beef cattle and range management research. Students have access to experimental ranchlands, livestock herds, and laboratory equipment, enabling them to conduct applied research relevant to modern agricultural challenges.

This setting also offers opportunities to collaborate with industry professionals, scientists, and government agencies, ensuring that research findings have both academic and real-world impact.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the University of Idaho Scholarship 2026?

It is a fully funded PhD Graduate Research Assistantship in Range Science, focusing on Virtual Fence technology for cattle management.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants with a completed Master’s degree in a relevant field and a willingness to conduct fieldwork in remote environments are eligible.

Where is the position located?

At the Nancy M. Cummings Research, Extension, and Education Center near Salmon, Idaho. Coursework may be completed remotely, but field research occurs locally.

What is the stipend amount?

The scholarship provides an annual salary of $31,000 plus optional on-site housing.

Are housing and living arrangements mandatory?

No. On-site housing is optional, though convenient for field research and collaboration.

What are the key duties of the PhD scholar?

Managing research projects, monitoring grazing patterns, leading small teams, and publishing results in peer-reviewed journals.

Is prior experience mandatory?

No, but candidates with prior research or fieldwork experience in range or animal sciences will have an advantage.

When does the program begin?

Between January 1 and April 13, 2026, depending on the candidate’s readiness.

How long does the program last?

Typically three to four years, depending on research progress.

How can I apply?

Email your cover letter, CV, and references to ellison@uidaho.edu with the subject line “Cattle VF – PhD.”


Apply early to secure your chance to join one of the most respected agricultural research institutions in the United States.

Official Application Email:ellison@uidaho.edu

Subject Line: Cattle VF – PhD

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