All information posted below is shared by ISH members for the purpose of advertising available graduate research projects. Prospective students should get in touch with the nominated contact person listed with the opportunity.
Posted 19 Nov 2025
University of California, Davis: Two PhD positions in ant genomics and ant-plant symbioses
The lab of Dr. Rodolfo Probst at the University of California, Davis (Department of Entomology and Nematology) is recruiting two graduate students for Fall 2026. Starting in March 2026, Dr. Probst’s lab at UC Davis will integrate comparative genomics, phylogenetics/phylogenomics, systematics, and field-based ecology to understand how mutualistic interactions involving ants evolve, diversify, and respond to environmental change.
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Posted 14 Nov 2025
University of Central Florida: Funded PhD (or MSc) positions in comparative genomics, bioinformatics, and evolution of parasitic wasps
The Sharanowski lab at the University of Central Florida loves parasitic wasps, nature, evolution, field work, museums, and everything insects! Currently, we are seeking a Ph.D. student to work on comparative genomics, bioinformatics, and evolutionary projects focusing on parasitic wasps in the superfamily Ichneumonoidea. A background in genomics, genetics, evolution, statistics and/or molecular biology would be ideal. Experience in basic programming (Python, R) is ideal, though interest and willingness to learn are also valuable. Students with a degree in biology, math, or a computer science are highly encouraged. Students with master’s degrees and previous publications (or in prep) are preferred, but reach out if these topics are of interest to you but you’re not sure you have the entire set of skills. If this advertisement calls to you, but you want to pursue a Master’s degree, please reach out.
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Posted 13 Nov 2025
University of Central Florida: Graduate Positions in Systematics, Phylogenomics, and Coevolution
The Sosa-Calvo Lab at the University of Central Florida (UCF) is recruiting motivated graduate students to explore the systematics and evolution of Hymenoptera, with a special emphasis on ants. Our lab integrates fieldwork, molecular systematics, and evolutionary biology to study how insects diversify and interact with their fungal and other microbial partners.
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Posted 13 Nov 2025
University of Nebraska-Lincoln: PhD Students to begin Fall 2026
Core research areas will include molecular systematics (e.g., DNA barcoding & UCEs) and taxonomy of parasitic Hymenoptera, especially those in gall systems. Graduate students in the lab will gain extensive experience in practical taxonomy, next-generation molecular phylogenetics, and insect collections.
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