Join the lab
Interested in joining the Fish & Functions Lab?
Awesome! However, before you reach out, please take a minute to look at the general information and the specifics that pertain to your career stage below. Also, look for specific position announcements right below this section.
NEW POstdoctoral position available
We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to join the lab in 2025. The position will be part of a newly funded project with Dr. Luke Tornabene at the University of Washington to examine the biodiversity of cryptobenthic fishes throughout the indo-pacific. A detailed description and application instructions are here. A companion position located in Dr. Tornabene’s lab (focused on taxonomy and systematics) is also available, with a detailed description here.
New technician position available
A research technician position is available in my lab, located at the University of Texas at Austin Marine Science Institute (UTMSI) in Port Aransas, TX. The position is part of an NSF-funded project to examine the zoogeochemistry of coral reef ecosystems. A description of the project can be found here. The ideal candidate will be able to commit to the position for a minimum of two years.
To apply, please follow the instructions on the recruitment website: https://utaustin.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UTstaff/job/PORT-ARANSAS-TX/Research-Engineering--Scientist-Assistant_R_00037677
If you have any questions about the position, please direct them to: simon.brandl@austin.utexas.edu
Graduate student positions
My lab is currently at full capacity and I am not taking on additional students for the Fall 2025 cycle.
General information
Science is built on collaboration and mentorship and I generally operate under the principle: “the more the merrier”. Therefore, I would love to hear from you if you are interested in joining the lab, but my ability to support you will always be dictated by available funding. Nevertheless, if our interests mesh well and you are willing to explore independent funding sources, I am usually happy to support your application(s).
With this being said, please take a moment to review the lab’s research focus and our code of conduct. If your interests and expectations align with both, go ahead and email me. Please make sure that you attach your current CV. If you do so but do not get a response, ping me again.
Postdocs
While it is improbable that I will have unadvertised postdoc funding lying around, there are plenty of opportunities to obtain funding. If you are interested in doing a postdoc with me at UTMSI, please send me an email with:
Your current CV.
A short (1-page max) summary of a) your PhD-research, b) your general research interests, and c) a project you would like to pursue, and d) any particular skills or career goals you wish to obtain or achieve in your postdoc.
One or more fellowship opportunities you would target.
Graduate students
To become a graduate student in my lab, you must be admitted through UT Austin. You also need funding for your tuition fees and your stipend. If you are interested in doing your graduate degree with me at UTMSI, please send me an email with:
Your current CV.
A 1-page summary of why you are interested in obtaining a graduate degree and why in my lab.
Information concerning your current (or planned) funding situation.
Any particular skills you wish to obtain during your degree (if there are any).
