Kentucky State University Scholarship 2026

A fully funded Master’s degree opportunity is open for applications at Kentucky State University in the United States. Supported through a specialized research assistantship, selected candidates will study and earn as a graduate student (M.S.) within the university’s premier aquaculture division.

Scholarship Overview

Host Country	United States
Institution	Kentucky State University (KYSU)
Study Location	Study in USA
Eligible Countries	All Countries
Requirements	Bachelor’s/Master’s degree
Scholarship Category	Postgraduate Scholarships \| Masters Scholarships
Reward	Graduate Research Assistantship \| $30,000 Annual Stipend \| Tuition Grant Opportunities
Application Closing Date	1st August, 2026

This post contains all the details of the program, including the specific technical requirements and a step-by-step application guide for interested candidates.

Research Project Details

The successful candidate will join Dr. Patrick Erbland’s laboratory to work on a cutting-edge smart farming initiative. The specific research scope involves:

Behavioral Observation: Using computer vision and physical data to monitor fish behaviors and dynamically estimate their precise appetite levels.
Prototype Engineering: Designing, programming, and building a functional prototype feeding system that automatically dispenses aquaculture feed based on real-time appetite estimation.
Sensor Integration: Working extensively with low-cost field hardware, including video cameras, audio sensors, and motion detectors.

Related Scholarship Opportunities:

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for this Graduate Assistantship at Kentucky State University, candidates must satisfy the following strict technical and physical parameters:

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Engineering, Biology, Computer Science, or a closely related scientific field.
Proficiency with computer programming languages, specifically Python, for data or sensor integration.
Practical background in designing and building prototype equipment alongside field or lab work related to aquaculture or aquatic systems.
Willingness to work flexible, long hours (including occasional weekend or holiday monitoring checks) and tolerate harsh field environments (heat, cold, high humidity, rain, and insects).
Exceptional attention to detail, strict compliance with scientific protocols, strong organizational skills, and a commitment to publishing research outcomes in peer-reviewed journals.
Must possess or be able to acquire a valid US driver’s license for field operations.

Requirements

Ensure you assemble high-quality, clear digital copies of these verification files before initiating contact. All application documents should be clean, professional layouts:

A Cover Letter (Maximum of 1 page).
Academic and professional Resume/CV.
Clear copies of Unofficial Transcripts.
Complete Contact Information for 3 Professional References.

How to Apply for Kentucky State University Scholarship 2026

Unlike standard university portal admissions, this research assistantship requires a direct, targeted application to the principal investigator. Follow this step-by-step guide:

Click on the application button below to visit the program page.
Compile your cover letter, resume, unofficial transcripts, and reference contact details into a single email thread.
Draft a formal email addressed directly to the Lead Researcher, Dr. Patrick Erbland, at: patrick.erbland@kysu.edu.
Use the exact, mandatory email subject line: “Smart Feeder MS application”.
Submit your application files as early as possible. Review processes begin strictly on June 15, 2026, and the position will close immediately once a qualified candidate is officially locked in.

APPLICATION LINK

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