The Wilson lab in the Department of Entomology at the University of Kentucky is recruiting an MS or PhD student in Entomology to start in Spring 2027. This position will be located in Lexington, Kentucky on the main campus of the University of Kentucky. We study sustainable insect pest management and natural enemy conservation in urban trees, shrubs, and turfgrass. The selected student would be expected to study 1) how flowering lawn weeds influence biological control of scale insects in urban trees, and 2) the degree to which lawn-applied insecticides translocate into scale honeydew in nearby trees and resultant effects on natural enemy communities. The selected student will be encouraged to develop their own research projects under the general themes of the lab.

 Ideal applicants will possess a BS degree if applying to be a PhD student and an MS degree if applying to be a PhD student. Candidates should have a background in entomology, ecology, environmental sciences, biology, or a related field. Prior experience with field-based data collection, scientific writing, and statistical analysis are preferred. Successful applicants will start in January 2027. Students will receive an assistantship which fully covers tuition and provides a competitive stipend and health insurance. Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact Dr. Caleb Wilson with questions: c.wilson@uky.edu

The University of Kentucky is located in Lexington, Kentucky which contains a vibrant downtown along with many excellent options for dining, shopping, and outdoor recreation. The department of entomology is composed of 20 faculty with expertise in a wide array of disciplines. The department is consistently ranked as one of the most productive in the country and our students have moved on to successful careers in academia, industry, and government. Starting in December 2026, the department will be based in the newly constructed Agricultural Research Building which will contain state-of-the-art lab equipment for conducting research.

Additional information can be found at the Wilson lab website: https://caleb-j-wilson.com/, and the University of Kentucky Department of Entomology graduate program: https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/academics/graduate.

Prospective students should email application materials to Dr. Caleb Wilson at c.wilson@uky.edu by September 18th, 2026. Interviews will be conducted as applications are received. Applications received after September 18th may still be considered for an interview. The selected candidate will be required to apply to the graduate school at the University of Kentucky by December 1st 2026. Candidates who apply to the graduate school without interviewing with Dr. Wilson will not be considered for this position.

To apply, please email Dr. Caleb Wilson at c.wilson@uky.edu by September 18th, 2026, with “Scale insect grad student application: First name, Last name” in the subject line and attach the following documents:

1. A cover letter describing research experience, interests, and career goals

2. CV

3. Name and contact information for 3 professional references.

4. An unofficial transcript for all degrees received or in progress.