Description
University College Dublin (UCD) is offering two funded PhD positions through the InterPoll project, supported by Research Ireland. These roles are designed for students eager to explore how managed honeybees interact with wild pollinator species in different environments. While global research suggests competition with managed species can stress wild insects, these projects aim to fill critical knowledge gaps specifically within the Irish landscape.
Both researchers will join a dynamic team at UCD’s School of Agriculture and Food Science and the Earth Institute. The positions offer a collaborative environment, working alongside a wider team of academics, postdocs, and fellow PhD students.
Available Research Projects
The InterPoll project is divided into two distinct but complementary PhD tracks:
Project 1: Field-Based Behavioural Interactions
This role focuses on establishing a large network of field sites with varying honeybee densities. You will assess the abundance and diversity of all pollinators while specifically observing the behavior of honeybees and wild bumblebees in natural settings. This position involves extensive fieldwork and communication with landowners.
Project 2: Experimental Mechanisms & Testing
This role focuses on the "why" and "how" behind bee interactions. You will develop lab and semi-field experiments using the insect cage network at the UCD Rosemount Environmental Research Station. The work involves manipulating honeybee presence and forage availability to assess bee behavior and plant traits.
Funding and Benefits
Selected candidates will receive a comprehensive financial package for the duration of the program:
- Stipend: A tax-free personal stipend of €25,000 per year.
- Tuition: Coverage of EU fees (Note: Non-EU applicants are welcome but must cover the difference in fee rates).
- Research Costs: All travel and research-related expenses are fully covered by the project grant.
- Duration: Both scholarships are funded for a period of 4 years.
Eligibility Criteria
These positions are ideally suited for candidates with a strong background in the natural sciences and a passion for ecology.
- Academic Background: An undergraduate degree in ecology, zoology, environmental science, or a related discipline.
- Minimum Grade: Applicants should hold at least a 2.1 honors degree.
- Project-Specific Skills: * Field Project: A full, clean driver's license is mandatory due to the extensive travel required for field site visits.
- Both Projects: Strong teamwork and communication skills are essential, as you will work closely with postdocs and the wider InterPoll team.
- Start Date: Successful candidates are expected to begin their studies on 1st September 2026.
Application Process
Interested candidates must submit their application through the official project form by 17th May 2026 at 5pm. Applicants are required to combine the following documents into a single PDF file:
- Cover Letter: Detailing your interest, motivation, and what you can contribute to the project (maximum 2 pages).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Highlighting your relevant research experience (maximum 3 pages).
- Writing Example: A sample of scientific writing, such as a manuscript, essay, or lab report.
- Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for an online interview.
For more details on the lab's work, visit Stanley Ecology Lab.
