Currently seeking a student for a Fall 2026 opening in the joint graduate program between Case Western Reserve University and Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. The mission of this program is to provide students with the opportunity to earn a Ph.D. degree in Biology at Case Western Reserve University while being advised by zoo scientists to conduct research that improves our general knowledge of animal biology, enhances animal health and welfare, and contributes to the protection of wildlife. Graduate Research Associates in this program are part-time staff members in the Conservation & Science Department at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is a member of the BioScience Alliance, a high-impact collaboration of Cleveland-area research and training programs in biology, also including Holden Forests and Gardens and Case Western Reserve University. This alliance of Cleveland-based organizations emphasizes student training opportunities and fosters innovative collaborations among biologists in the Cleveland area and worldwide.
The current opening is for the PhD program to work with Dr. Noah Dunham. Ideally, applicants will have a master’s degree and related research experience in animal behavior, nutritional ecology, locomotion, and/or energetics. Specifically, the research for this graduate position will focus on 1) quantifying total energy expenditure (TEE) in a variety of zoo-housed animals, including non-human primates, and examining the interconnections among TEE, diet, behavior, and health and 2) incorporating innovative technologies to study animal behavior and welfare.
To apply, submit required application materials to Case Western Reserve University Biology Department website (https://biology.case.edu/graduate/admission/) by December 15, 2025. Identify Dr. Noah Dunham in your Statement of Objectives as faculty of interest. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Dr. Noah Dunham (ntd@clev....com) prior to applying.