PhD Position in Ecosystem Ecology: The Zhou Lab at the Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Biology (EEMB), University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), invites applications for a fully funded PhD position starting in Fall 2026. The lab explores how ecosystem processes respond to global change, focusing on carbon and nutrient dynamics in fire-prone ecosystems and the biogeochemistry of ecosystem engineers such as termites. This opportunity is ideal for motivated students with a strong background in ecology, environmental science, or related fields who are eager to pursue research integrating field experiments, observational studies, and biogeochemical analyses.
PhD Position in Ecosystem Ecology/Biogeochemistry at UC Santa Barbara (Fall 2026)
🧾 Summary Table
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Designation | PhD Position |
| Research Area | Ecosystem Ecology / Biogeochemistry |
| Location | Department of Ecology, Evolution & Marine Biology (EEMB), University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), USA |
| Supervisor | Dr. Yong Zhou, Assistant Professor |
| Duration & Funding | 5 years (fully funded through Graduate Student Researcher and Teaching Assistant positions) |
| Salary & Benefits | Minimum salary per collective bargaining agreement; tuition, registration fees, and health insurance fully covered |
| Program Start Date | Fall 2026 |
| Application Deadline | December 1, 2025 |
🎯 Research Focus Areas
- Plant-Soil-Microbe Feedbacks in Response to Fire
Investigate how fire disturbances influence ecosystem processes and nutrient cycling. - Biogeochemistry of Ecosystem Engineers (e.g., Termites)
Explore how ecosystem engineers contribute to carbon and nutrient transformations.
Graduate students are encouraged to develop independent research projects aligned with these core themes, integrating fieldwork, lab experiments, and ecosystem modeling.
🎓 Eligibility / Qualification
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Biology, Soil Science, or related disciplines.
- Prior research experience in ecosystem ecology, biogeochemistry, or environmental fieldwork is highly desirable.
- Strong interest in global change research, ecosystem processes, and interdisciplinary approaches.
- Excellent communication and analytical skills.
🧪 Job Description
- Conduct independent and collaborative research within the lab’s focus areas.
- Participate in fieldwork, biogeochemical analyses, and data modeling.
- Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present research at conferences.
- Assist in teaching and mentoring undergraduate students as part of the Teaching Assistant duties.
📝 How to Apply
Before submitting a formal application to the UCSB EEMB Graduate Program, interested candidates should contact Dr. Yong Zhou via email at yongzhou@ucsb.edu with the following materials:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) including contact details for up to 3 references.
- Unofficial academic transcript.
- Brief statement (1-page max) describing research interests and previous research experience.
Dr. Zhou welcomes inquiries about potential project ideas and program details.
For more information, visit:
🔗 EEMB Graduate Program – UCSB
🔗 Zhou Lab Website
⏰ Last Date to Apply:
December 1, 2025
Contact:
Dr. Yong Zhou, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Biology
University of California, Santa Barbara
📧 Email: yongzhou@ucsb.edu
🌐 Website: https://zhoulabucsb.weebly.com
