Biodiversity and Conservation Genomics (BCG) Training Program – Applications due Feb 2nd!

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Please share this announcement widely with course listservs, research labs, and interested students. Applications are now open through February 2nd.
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The Biodiversity and Conservation Genomics (BCG) Training Program, led by the Institute for Systems Genomics in collaboration with research laboratories in Ecology & Evolutionary Biology (EEB) and Molecular & Cell Biology (MCB), is now accepting applications for its fifth cohort. This year-long program runs from summer 2026 through spring 2027 and provides an integrated research and training experience in conservation genomics.

As genomic data become increasingly central to conservation and restoration efforts, BCG is designed for highly motivated undergraduates interested in applying genomic and computational approaches to real-world conservation challenges. Trainees receive hands-on experience in academic research laboratories and work closely with non-governmental organizations and government agencies actively engaged in species conservation and management.

Since 2021, the BCG program has trained 29 undergraduate researchers in bioinformatics, genome biology, molecular biology, and scientific writing. Participants have contributed to the development of two open-source software tools and the generation of reference genomes for 27 threatened species across North America and beyond.

No prior research or coding experience is required. Students from all majors are encouraged to apply.

• Learn more about the Biodiversity and Conservation Genomics Center: https://isg.uconn.edu/biodiversity/
• Learn more about the application process (due Feb 2nd) and training program: https://isg.uconn.edu/biodiversity/conservation-training/

Jobs: ChicagoBotanicGarden.PlantConservation.ResExperiences

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The Chicago Botanic Garden is now accepting applications for the 2026 Plant Biology & Conservation Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program. This full-time, 10-week NSF-funded summer program provides undergraduates with hands-on research experience in plant biology and conservation, with projects spanning topics from genetics to ecosystems.
The program includes a $7,000 stipend, travel assistance, and housing during required on-site weeks. The program runs from June 15-August 21, 2026, and may begin with a virtual first week.

Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and currently enrolled undergraduate students. We particularly encourage applications from early-stage undergraduates and students from institutions with limited research opportunities.

Application deadline: February 16, 2026
More information: https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpbcinternships.org%2Fsummer-reasearch-internship&data=05%7C02%7Cmid14018%40ad.uconn.edu%7C0421a3717ff14d71ea7608de3ef4c11b%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C639017418105484100%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=DuttcTewaaBYB3%2FaK2yqmAyFSRZk9vXcCW7%2F4ZHJb8o%3D&reserved=0
Application link: https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fetap.nsf.gov%2Faward%2F7347%2Fopportunity%2F11623&data=05%7C02%7Cmid14018%40ad.uconn.edu%7C0421a3717ff14d71ea7608de3ef4c11b%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C639017418105517136%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=1KjM0%2Bre8kmgfPCHyxCZN2wP1ILqxxQNvfd2NDKrNIo%3D&reserved=0

Graduate position in freshwater fish evolution

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Graduate position in freshwater fish evolution The Mandeville Lab at Northern Michigan University is recruiting a MS student to work on the evolutionary genomics of freshwater fish (start date fall 2026).

Research in our lab focuses on how evolutionary processes shape freshwater fish biodiversity.  Specific project topic will depend on the interests of the successful candidate, but possible focus areas include hybridization, effects of anthropogenic disturbance, population connectivity, and the evolution of fish sex determination mechanisms. We work on many different groups of freshwater fish, including but not limited to suckers, whitefish, dace, and leuciscid minnows. Please see our lab website for additional information and recent publications:
https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flizmandeville.github.io%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cmid14018%40ad.uconn.edu%7C3312ebb25e614564798108de325e08fd%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C639003576626804694%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=CTXBpwURk%2BWYahSmOc94THA5RhLQB3eefkCWd%2B74b0Q%3D&reserved=0.

Candidates interested in evolution, fish biology, ecology, genetics, conservation, or related fields are encouraged to apply. Desired qualifications include strong writing skills, excellent critical thinking, and the ability to balance working independently and collaboratively. All projects will involve analysis of high resolution genomic data, requiring computational approaches and high performance computing. No prior computational experience is required, but applicants without previous experience must be enthusiastic about building their computational skills. The Mandeville Lab is an inclusive environment that supports researchers with diverse identities, and encourages applications from students who are members of historically excluded groups.

NMU is located in Marquette, Michigan, in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Marquette is a small but vibrant city on the southern shore of Lake Superior, located close to beautiful natural areas. It’s a great place to live and work, and the proximity to many of our field sites enables us to do satisfying work integrating ecological and evolutionary questions.

To apply, please send a letter of interest, CV, transcript (unofficial is fine), and contact in- formation for three references to Dr. Liz Mandeville, lmandevi@nmu.edu. Review of applications will begin immediately, and will continue until a suitable candidate is identified. Please apply by Dec. 15 for full consideration.

PhD positions: “Improving human–wildlife coexistence” 

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PhD positions: “Improving human–wildlife coexistence”
University of St Andrews, UK
closing date: 06 January 2026
Are you interested in movement ecology, animal tracking, human–wildlife interactions, conservation science, and/or environmental planning? There is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a major new project on sustainable human–wildlife coexistence in terrestrial environments, developed in close partnership with the National Geographic Society.
For further details and information on how to apply, please see the advert on FindAPhD (see link above).
Informal enquiries can be sent, with CV, to the project lead and supervisor, Professor Christian Rutz (christian.rutz@st-andrews.ac.uk).
Please share widely.

Ph.D. Assistantship: Understanding Drivers of Change in Seagrass Ecosystems to Inform Management of Critical Habitats in the Gulf Islands National Seashore

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PH.D. STUDENT ASSISTANTSHIP
Understanding Drivers of Change in Seagrass Ecosystems to Inform Management of Critical Habitats in the Gulf Islands National Seashore
The University of Southern Mississippi
Ocean Springs, MS
We seek a highly motivated student to fill a funded Ph.D. assistantship at The University of Southern Mississippi’s Gulf Coast Research Laboratory in Ocean Springs, MS. The selected student will be co-advised by Dr. Zachary Darnell and Dr. Kelly Darnell. This assistantship will begin in Summer 2026.
The assistantship will be centered on a recently funded project to identify and monitor long-term trends and variability in seagrass-dominated ecosystems in the Gulf Islands National Seashore and identify drivers of change in biodiversity and productivity of these systems to address knowledge gaps and uncertainties prioritized by resource managers. The project will involve substantial field sampling for seagrass and seagrass-associated nekton across the Gulf Islands National Seashore in Florida and Mississippi, as well as laboratory sample processing. Experience working in seagrass beds and familiarity with coastal nekton communities is preferred but not required. This is a collaborative project with researchers at multiple academic institutions and stakeholders from multiple agencies including the National Park Service.
The student selected for this position will pursue a Ph.D. degree in the Division of Coastal Sciences within the School of Ocean Science and Engineering (SOSE). The assistantship includes tuition and a stipend of $28,500 per year for a duration of 5 years. The student selected for the assistantship will be a fully integrated member of the project team and will contribute to study design, collection and analysis of data, and manuscript preparation. Applicants with an M.S. degree are preferred.
The Division of Coastal Sciences is a research and graduate education unit within SOSE, which offers graduate and undergraduate degree programs in Coastal Sciences, Hydrographic Science, Marine Biology, Marine Science, and Ocean Engineering. The faculty and staff of SOSE leverage its location on the Gulf Coast and expertise in marine and coastal science and engineering to address challenges facing coastal and marine environments. SOSE has significant research infrastructure and facilities across four principal sites spanning the Mississippi Gulf Coast: the NASA Stennis Space Center, the Gulf Park Campus at Long Beach, the Roger F. Wicker Center for Ocean Enterprise at the Port of Gulfport, and the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory in Ocean Springs. This position will be located in Ocean Springs at the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, a marine laboratory featuring comprehensive research programs in coastal and marine biological sciences. Research program support includes state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and instrumentation; a fleet of small and large research vessels; the GCRL Museum collection; facilities at the Center for Fisheries Research and Development (CFRD) and Thad Cochran Marine Aquaculture Center (TCMAC); and the NSF I/UCRC Science Center for Marine Fisheries. Ocean Springs is a small, coastal town known for its beauty, natural resources, and vibrant arts community. It is home to galleries, restaurants, and schools that are ranked among the best in the state.
Interested students should contact Dr. Zachary Darnell (zachary.darnell@usm.edu). Please include a cover letter describing your interests and career goals, a copy of your CV, unofficial undergraduate and graduate transcripts, and contact information for three professional references. For full consideration, submit all required information by February 1, 2026.

PhD opportunity in Aquatic Chemical Ecology at the University of South Bohemia, Czech Republic

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Characterizing zooplankton infochemicals and their effects on cyanobacterial traits
(Shared position between the University of South Bohemia and the Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Czech Republic)
We are seeking an enthusiastic PhD student to join our research team at the Department of Ecosystem Biology, University of South Bohemia (USB), in close collaboration with Dr. Kumar Saurav (Centre Algatech, Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences) and Prof. Adam Petrusek (Charles University, Prague). The position is based in the Czech Republic and is part of a newly funded project investigating chemical communication between zooplankton and cyanobacteria, and how these interactions shape the dynamics of freshwater ecosystems.
USB is located in the ?eské Bud?jovice region, a relaxed city of ~100,000 inhabitants within easy reach of Prague and Vienna. The USB campus offers access to a vibrant research community and numerous modern facilities.
Project Overview
Cyanobacterial blooms pose significant risks to freshwater ecosystems through the production of toxins, alterations to food webs, and reduced water quality. Although zooplankton can be strongly affected by cyanobacteria, they also produce infochemicals that can modulate cyanobacterial morphology, growth, colony formation, and toxin production. Yet, the chemical nature, diversity, and ecological relevance of these cues remain largely unknown.
In this project, the PhD Candidate will:
Characterize infochemicals released by copepods and cladocerans across a phylogenetic gradient of taxa common in Central European lakes and ponds.
Examine their effects on cyanobacterial traits using bioassays and chemical profiling.
Integrate approaches from freshwater ecology, chemical ecology, and microbial ecology.
Role of the PhD candidate
The PhD candidate will be central to the project and will work closely with collaborators at USB, IMIC and Charles University. Responsibilities include:
Maintaining and cultivating freshwater zooplankton species.
Running laboratory experiments testing zooplankton–cyanobacteria interactions.
Preparing samples for mass spectrometry and working with chemical profiling datasets.
Participating in field sampling and infochemical analyses.
Analyzing ecological and chemical data (e.g., in R).
Writing scientific manuscripts and presenting findings at conferences.
This position is ideal for a student interested in interdisciplinary aquatic science, combining organismal biology, chemical ecology, and modern analytical approaches
Required Qualifications
Master’s degree in ecology, biology, environmental science, limnology, chemistry, or related fields.
Interest in freshwater ecology, zooplankton biology, and chemical ecology.
Ability to work across disciplines that combine ecological research with environmental chemistry.
Experience in laboratory experiments, culturing organisms, or preparing samples for mass spectrometry is an advantage.
Hand on experience of HPLC, and mass spectrometry is a plus.
Experience with R or similar tools for data analysis is beneficial.
The working environment is international; excellent communication skills in English are essential.
Position Details
Funding: Fully funded PhD (4 years). The student will receive a university PhD scholarship and part-time employment on the project (starting at ~32,000 CZK (~1,330 EUR) in the first year, which may increase over time and includes health insurance and pension contributions) sufficient to cover living expenses in the Czech Republic.
Host institutions:
University of South Bohemia (USB), Faculty of Science, Department of Ecosystem Biology in Ceske Budejovice
Centre Algatech, Institute of Microbiology (IMIC) of the Czech Academy of Sciences,  in T?ebo? (about 20 km from ?eské Bud?jovice)
Start date: No later than September 2026.
Language of the program: English.
Applicants from all countries are eligible, but a M.Sc. degree is required to enter a PhD program in the Czech Republic.
How to Apply
Please send a single PDF comprising the following information to Dr. Claire Duchet (cduchet@prf.jcu.cz) and Dr. Kumar Saurav (saurav@alga.cz) in cc with the subject: “PhD Application – Zooplankton Infochemicals Project”
Include a CV, a cover letter describing your motivation and relevant experience, contact details for 2–3 referees, writing sample: thesis chapter, report, or publication
Deadline: 15.01.2026
Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed shortly after. The invited candidate will then submit a formal application to the Faculty of Science at USB, with faculty-level interviews. The position can start from March 2026 onward. Therefore, candidates available only in the autumn are also encouraged to apply. The successful candidate will be expected to start their PhD no later than September/October 2026 at the start of the winter semester.
For questions or informal inquiries, please contact Claire Duchet (cduchet@prf.jcu.cz).
Claire Duchet, PhD

PhD OFFER: Legacy of Pre-Fire Silvicultural Treatments on Post-Fire Forest Regeneration

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PhD OFFER: Legacy of Pre-Fire Silvicultural Treatments on Post-Fire Forest Regeneration
Project description:  In 2023, wildfires in Québec’s boreal forests reached unprecedented levels, largely affecting managed stands. In boreal ecosystems, fire is a primary natural disturbance, and many tree species have evolved reproductive strategies that depend on it. However, in recently burned areas, the stands most affected were often those previously subject to silvicultural interventions such as planting, removal of broadleaf trees, thinning to stimulate growth, or salvage logging after fire. These human modifications can profoundly alter the natural dynamics of forest recovery. Yet, how such pre- and post-fire silvicultural actions influence the capacity of forests to regenerate naturally remains poorly understood.
This doctoral project will investigate how the legacy of pre-fire silvicultural treatments shapes seedling regeneration dynamics after wildfire in Québec’s boreal forests. The candidate will examine how these legacies affect tree establishment, mortality, understory development, and sapling productivity, with a particular focus on key species such as black spruce (Picea mariana) and jack pine (Pinus banksiana). Fieldwork will be conducted in the Nord-du-Québec region, in a network of burned plots established to monitor regeneration dynamics and abiotic conditions (e.g., soil moisture, temperature, microsite availability). Special attention will be given to the ecophysiology of seedlings — including growth, survival, and physiological responses to post-fire conditions — to better understand the mechanisms that determine regeneration success. Regeneration will be followed over time, allowing the project to capture both short- and mid-term dynamics of seedling establishment and survival.
Candidate Profile: We are looking for a candidate with a background in forestry, biology, natural products chemistry, ecology, plant physiology, or a related field, holding a master’s degree (or equivalent) in one of these disciplines. A strong interest in plant physiology and integrative approaches to ecology is essential, as these areas are at the core of our work. We particularly value a positive and persevering attitude, coupled with natural kindness, in a collaborative work environment. Creativity, scientific curiosity, and the ability to carry out projects independently are also important qualities.
Location, Supervision, and Research Environment: The selected candidate will be based at the Forest Research Institute (IRF) of the Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), Rouyn-Noranda campus. Supervision will be provided by Valentina Buttò (IRF-UQAT), specialist in functional ecology and forest modeling, and Annie Desrochers (UQAT), specialist in silviculture and ecophysiology. The candidate will enroll in the doctoral program Doctorat en écologie et aménagement des écosystèmes forestiers (1579) at UQAT (see program details here: link). A scholarship of 24 000 Canadian dollars is offered to the candidate for the duration of the program. UQAT is a French-speaking university; however, non-French speakers will have access to free French classes if they wish to learn the language. They will also be supported by the supervisors and university staff to ensure the best conditions for academic and personal success. IRF-UQAT offers highly personalized supervision, fostering a close-knit, supportive environment that maximizes student success.  Project Start Date: from Winter 2026 (January – April)
Required Documents: To express your interest, please send a CV, a cover letter, copies of your transcripts (which can be unofficial), and the contact details of two referees to Valentina Buttò (valentina.butto@uqat.ca) and Annie Desrochers (annie.desrochers@uqat.ca)

2026 Paid Summer Internship for Undergraduates at UC San Diego

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Hello,

I’m pleased to share an exciting paid summer internship for STEM undergraduates at the University of California San Diego and Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Please feel free to distribute this opportunity to your undergraduate students and post it on your institution’s job boards. More information and the flyer are included below.

Thank you!

Victoria Alzona

Summer Internship Coordinator

Marine Physical Laboratory

Scripps Institution of Oceanography

mpl-internship@ucsd.edu

The Marine Physical Laboratory (MPL) at the world-renowned Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California San Diego is now seeking curious, motivated undergraduates with strong quantitative skills to apply for the 2026 MPL Summer Internship Program.

This paid, eight-week research program provides students the opportunity to work on their own individual research project under the guidance of leading scientists in the field. Interns also participate in weekly seminars, hands-on activities, and professional development events. Participants receive an hourly wage of $18.25.

Research areas include:

Acoustics and InfrasoundApplied Ocean SciencesAutonomous Ocean Platforms and Global Observing SystemsCoastal OceanographyInternal Waves and Ocean MixingMarine Mammal BiologyMarine RoboticsNonlinear and Surface WavesOcean AcousticsOcean Instrumentation and TechnologyOcean–Atmosphere InteractionsPhysical OceanographyPopulation and Community EcologyUpper Ocean and Submesoscale Processes

Eligibility

Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents currently enrolled as a second-year, or third-year undergraduates. (Senior-year undergraduates, former MPL interns, and high-school students are not eligible.)Applicants must be at least 18 years old by the internship start date. Applicants must be available to begin in June 2026 and work 40 hours per week for the full 8 consecutive weeks.

Application Procedure
To learn more and apply, please visit: https://mpl.ucsd.edu/internships/.

Applications are due Friday, January 23, 2026, at midnight Pacific Time.
Applicants will be notified of decisions by the end of April.

UC San Diego is an equal opportunity employer with a strong commitment to diversity. Students from underrepresented backgrounds are especially encouraged to apply.

Contact
For questions, please email: mpl-internship@ucsd.edu.

Follow Us:
Instagram: @mplinternship
Threads: @mplinternship
Twitter/X: @mplsummerintern

Seasonal technician positions: Forest ecology / plant community ecology 

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Seasonal technician positions: Forest ecology / plant community ecology

Tyson Research Center

Washington University in St. Louis

The Myers Ecology Lab at Washington University in St. Louis (http://www.myersecologylab.com) seeks two seasonal field technicians to participate in two forest-ecology projects at the university’s field station, Tyson Research Center (http://tyson.wustl.edu): 1) a long-term study of an oak-hickory forest-dynamics plot that is part of the Forest Global Earth Observatory (ForestGEO) global network of scientists and forest research sites dedicated to advancing long-term study of the world’s forests (https://www.forestgeo.si.edu); and 2) a landscape-scale experiment investigating the importance of prescribed fire, plant-functional traits, and natural enemies as drivers of forest diversity and change. The technician will develop skills and gain experience in: 1) field protocols for censuses of long-term ForestGEO plots, including tree identification, tree mapping, and measurements of tree growth, mortality, and seed production; 2) data collection for large-scale field experiments, including surveys of plant community composition and dynamics across environmental gradients; 3) management of large data sets; 4) mentoring of undergraduate and high school students in field research; and 5) team-based ecological field research. The Myers Ecology Lab and Washington University are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse work environment. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.

Position details: This is a full-time, temporary position (up to 6 months) with no benefits. Candidates interested in a shorter position (minimum of 3 months) are also encouraged to apply. Wages will be commensurate with experience. The position is available starting between April 1 and May 18, 2026. The successful applicant will need to secure their own housing in St. Louis or near Tyson Research Center (20 miles from campus). Located on the edge of the Ozark ecoregion, Tyson Research Center is a 2000-acre field station dedicated to multi-scale research, teaching, and collaboration across disciplines, institutions, and levels of academic training.

Minimum requirements: Bachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g. biology, ecology, forestry); experience conducting field research; excellent teamwork skills; ability to work outdoors under a range of conditions that include hot or cold weather, mosquitoes and ticks, and steep terrain; enthusiasm to learn new concepts and field skills.

Preferred qualifications: A strong interest in ecology; experience working in a field team; experience with plant identification, especially in temperate forests.

To apply: Please submit 1) a cover letter describing your interest in this position, how the position would advance your career goals, relevant experience, start date availability, and contact information for three references including e-mail addresses and phone numbers; and 2) a CV or resume. Application materials must be submitted electronically through https://jobs.washu.edu by entering the job ID number (JR91482) as a keyword on the Search WashU Jobs page. Review of applications will begin January 5, 2026 and continue until the position is filled. Candidates are strongly encouraged to e-mail Dr. Jonathan Myers (jamyers@wustl.edu) to indicate interest in the position as soon as possible using the subject line “Seasonal Ecology Technician”. Questions regarding the position can be directed to Dr. Jonathan Myers.

MS Assistantship in Ecological Forestry of White Oak

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The Department of Forestry and Natural Resources at the University of Kentucky is seeking qualified applicants for a MS assistantship available starting July 2026. The project will study the patterns and drivers of white oak’s growth and evaluate the role ecological forestry practices can play in sustaining white oak through promoting enhanced recruitment and reduced mortality. The research will leverage assessments of undisturbed stands and those subject to silvicultural practices such as thinning to understand how stand density, forest microclimates, and tree characteristics influence white oak growth and recruitment patterns. Tree-ring analysis will be used to help inform how past stand conditions influenced tree response. There will also be opportunities to explore mechanistic drivers of white oak’s growth through collaboration with Dr. Sybil Gotsch’s forest ecophysiology laboratory in the University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources.

This graduate assistantship will provide students with a detailed ecological understanding of the region’s oak dominated forests as well as experience in the study of forest growth, dendrochronology, ecophysiology, and silviculture.

Assistantship will include a stipend of $28,117, tuition, and health benefits. Interested students should contact Dr. John Lhotka (john.lhotka@uky.edu, 859-257-9701). Please visit the following website, https://forestry.mgcafe.uky.edu/masters-program, to obtain information on the application process.

_____________________________________________________

Sybil G. Gotsch, Associate Professor (she/her/hers)

PI-Forest Ecophysiology Lab

Department of Forestry and Natural Resources

College of Agriculture, Food and Environment | University of Kentucky

105 T.P. Cooper Building, 730 Rose Street

Lexington KY 40546-0073

T: 859-257-7596 | F: 859-323-1031 | E: sybil.gotsch@uky.edu

Websites: https://forestry.ca.uky.edu/; http:/www.sybilgotsch.com/