Starkville, Mississippi, September 2, 2025
News Summary
Mississippi State University is inviting applications for fully funded graduate research positions at the Ph.D. and Master’s levels for entry in Spring and Fall 2026. These positions focus on innovative research in geographic information systems, public health, data science, and artificial intelligence under the leadership of Dr. Mei Yang. Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply to benefit from the opportunities offered in addressing public health challenges. Interested students can expect a supportive environment with access to advanced facilities.
Starkville, Mississippi: MSU Offers Graduate Research Positions in Geospatial Health
Mississippi State University (MSU) is currently inviting applications for fully funded graduate research positions at the Ph.D. and Master’s levels for Spring 2026 and Fall 2026 entry. These opportunities are aimed at individuals interested in innovative research that combines geographic information systems (GIS), public health, data science, and artificial intelligence.
Dr. Mei Yang, a tenure-track Assistant Professor in the Department of Geosciences at MSU, leads a research group that focuses on spatial health analytics. This research aims to address significant public health challenges by applying advanced methods in GIScience, spatial statistics, and machine learning. Areas of investigation include environmental exposures, transportation systems, human mobility, and the socio-demographic and genetic determinants of health.
Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply as the positions are fully funded, a significant advantage for those pursuing advanced study without financial burdens. Candidates seeking to enhance their qualifications are advised to possess either a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field. Ph.D. applicants should also provide samples of previous research work, including journal articles or excerpts from theses and technical reports.
To apply for these graduate assistantships, prospective students must email their application materials to the designated contact and also submit an application through the MSU Graduate School portal. The university is actively seeking strong candidates who can contribute meaningfully to the research initiatives of the department.
About Mississippi State University
Founded in 1878, Mississippi State University is recognized as a top-tier public research institution with an R1: Very High Research Activity classification. The campus, sprawling across 4,200 acres in Starkville, Mississippi, offers over 175 academic programs complemented by state-of-the-art research facilities, including experimental farms and woodlands.
MSU promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and provides the necessary tools for addressing regional and global challenges in health, environment, and development. Graduate students can expect a wealth of opportunities to engage in meaningful, data-driven research aimed at societal contributions, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience that prepares them for their future careers.
Key Benefits of the Program
- Fully funded graduate positions for qualifying candidates
- Focus on significant public health challenges
- Opportunity to work on real-world applications at the intersection of various fields
- Access to cutting-edge research facilities and interdisciplinary collaboration
Students interested in advancing their careers while making a difference in the field of geospatial health research are encouraged to consider these exciting opportunities. The initiative epitomizes MSU’s commitment to harnessing technology and scientific knowledge for improved health outcomes.
Application Timeline
Applications are being accepted for both the Spring 2026 and Fall 2026 academic terms. Interested individuals should prepare their materials as soon as possible to ensure they meet submission deadlines.
By participating in this graduate program, students will not only enhance their research capabilities but will also contribute to significant advancements in public health through advanced geospatial health research.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What degrees are eligible for the graduate research positions?
- Applicants must possess a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field.
- How can I apply for these positions?
- Applicants should email their materials to the specified contact and also apply via the MSU Graduate School portal.
- Are these positions fully funded?
- Yes, all qualified applicants will receive full funding for their graduate studies.
- What fields of study does the research focus on?
- The research focuses on geospatial health, public health, data science, and artificial intelligence.
Key Features of the Graduate Research Positions
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Funding | Fully funded for qualified candidates |
| Research Focus | Geospatial health, public health, data science, AI |
| Application Period | Spring 2026 and Fall 2026 |
| Eligible Degrees | Bachelor’s or Master’s in relevant fields |
| Submission Requirements | Email materials; apply through MSU Graduate School portal |
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Additional Resources
- Global South Opportunities: Graduate Research Positions
- ScienceDirect: Environmental Health Article
- Nature: Public Health Research Article
- Wikipedia: Geographic Information System
- Google Search: Geospatial Health
Author: STAFF HERE STARKVILLE WRITER
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