Funded PhD in Wood Ant Conservation and Terrestrial Ecology at Maynooth University Maynooth University in Ireland

Maynooth University is advertising a funded PhD position in wood ant conservation and terrestrial ecology in Ireland, based in the Department of Biology and linked to the Terrestrial Ecology Lab.

The project title is The rare and declining hairy wood ant (Formica lugubris) in Ireland: investigating future translocation options and feasibility. The research will examine how to identify potential nest sites across Ireland, develop and modify protocols for translocation, and trial translocation methods in lab and field settings. The student will also collect specimens, run trials, and work with a network of stakeholders, including landowners and conservation partners.

This opportunity is supervised by Tara Dirilgen at Maynooth University. The post is suitable for a highly motivated applicant interested in ecology, conservation science, entomology, zoology, and applied field-based research on a near-threatened ant species.

Funding: the scholarship is fully funded for four years and includes a stipend of €25,000 per annum plus annual tuition fee support (EU fees).

Eligibility highlights: minimum 2.1 honours degree in a relevant subject, or a relevant Master's degree in entomology, conservation science, zoology, ecology, or a cognate discipline. A full, clean driver's licence is required. Non-native English speakers must meet Maynooth University English language requirements. The student must be resident in Ireland and available for full-time study.

Deadline: apply by 3 June 2026, 5pm GMT. Applications are submitted via the university application portal/application form, with a cover letter, CV, one sample of scientific writing, and two referees.