Funded Graduate Positions: The laboratory of Dr. Christina Kwapich at the University of Central Florida (UCF) is offering fully funded graduate positions in organismal biology, focusing on Florida ant fauna. These positions are supported through Teaching and Research Assistantships, which include health insurance and tuition waivers. Graduate students will conduct field research, present their findings at conferences, and be actively involved in the laboratory’s intellectual activities. The application deadline is November 15th, 2024, with positions starting in August 2025.
Supervisor: Dr. Christina Kwapich
Summary Table
| Designation | Fully Funded Graduate Research Positions (MS/PhD) |
|---|---|
| Research Area | Ant colony organization, seed harvesting ants, nest architecture, myrmecophiles |
| Location | University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL |
| Eligibility | BS/MS in related fields, research experience, strong communication skills, driver’s license |
| Funding | Teaching/Research Assistantships, health insurance, tuition waiver |
| Last Date | November 15, 2024 |
Designation
Funded MS and PhD Graduate Research Positions
Research Area
Major research areas include:
- Ant colony organization
- Production ecology of seed harvesting ants
- Nest architecture
- Myrmecophile life history
Location
Department of Biology, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
Eligibility/Qualification
- PhD Candidates:
- BS in animal behavior, entomology, evolution and ecology, or related fields.
- Demonstrated research productivity (e.g., publications, thesis, independent projects).
- MS Candidates:
- BS in the above-mentioned fields.
- Prior research experience in a lab or research-related environment.
Additional Requirements:
- Deep interest in organismal biology and field research.
- Willingness to work in hot and humid field conditions.
- Strong written communication skills.
- Valid driver’s license (required for using departmental vehicles).
- Existing taxonomic knowledge of insects and animal care experience are encouraged.
Job Description
Graduate students are expected to:
- Develop independent research questions on Florida ant fauna.
- Conduct fieldwork and research.
- Present their findings at national and international conferences.
- Participate in the laboratory’s and department’s intellectual community.
- Positions are fully funded through Teaching and Research Assistantships, which cover health insurance and tuition.
How to Apply
Prospective candidates should first review the laboratory’s publications and research talks available on the lab webpage. To apply, send the following materials to Christina.Kwapich@ucf.edu:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing coursework, skills, work, and research experience.
- A 1-page cover letter addressing:
- Academic and research preparation.
- Motivation for joining the research areas listed.
- Future career goals.
- Copies of any peer-reviewed publications, theses, or other research products.
Last Date for Apply
November 15, 2024
Positions will start in August 2025. If invited to formally apply to the UCF Biology Graduate Program, additional application materials must be submitted to the university by December 1, 2024.
