Fully-Funded Residential Summer School in Oxford University, UK

Fully-Funded Residential Summer School in Oxford University, UK

Join a fully-funded, 5-day summer school in Oxford to learn insect ID, field surveying, and DNA techniques - and help tackle the global insect decline.

This postgraduate course aims to equip you with basic insect identification and field surveying skills, including modern techniques such as eDNA and DNA barcoding, and to train you in identifying the main groups of UK pollinators: aculeate bees and hoverflies.

The course will be taught by experts from the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, supported by external consultants and entomologists from the University's Departments of Biology and Continuing Education.

Content delivery includes:

1. Practical fieldwork in Wytham Woods, one of the best-studied woodlands in the world;
2. Workshops and seminars on key insect groups and sampling techniques;
3. Self-paced, expert-led practical sessions using microscopes and identification keys for bees and hoverflies.

An online component with two introductory lectures on insect morphology, survey techniques, and museum collections supports in-person learning.

Location:

United Kingdom

Accommodation and Expenses:

Accommodation at an Oxford University college (five nights) with full board is provided. Reasonable travel expenses within the UK will also be covered.

The course fees are covered by NERC, and there is no charge to participants.

Entry Requirements:

Applications will be assessed based on:

• Relevance of the training to your research project
• Research experience or current PhD study
• Potential impact of the course on your career
• Interest in entomology and/or museums

Supporting Statement:

Demonstrate your suitability based on the above criteria in a statement of up to 3,000 characters ( 700 words).

Supporting Reference:

Submitted by:

• Your supervisor if a current student; or
• Your line manager if not a current student.

Note:

• Referees should not include your name or gender in their reference.
• Referees must state if you are funded by NERC.
• References should come from a recognized academic email and be on official letterhead.

Eligibility:

Open to all regions.

Application Process:

Deadline: Friday, 9 May 2025.

Required documents:

• Personal statement demonstrating your fit for the course
• Current CV
• Support letter from your supervisor or line manager

More guidance can be found in the 'selection criteria' section.

Application Deadline: May 9, 2025 (6 days remaining)

Note:

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