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Four diverse research programs in the
Department of Entomology at the
University of Illinois that study social insects are joining forces to
form a new training initiative for graduate students and postdoctoral
associates. Our interests range broadly, from conservation and ecology to
molecular phylogenetics to sociogenomics. We share an important goal: to use
social insects in combination with cutting-edge techniques and theories to address some of the leading questions in biology today. We are building on
our depth and breadth in social insect biology to launch this new
initiative.
Our interest in
these intriguing organisms fits well with an exciting new thrust in the biology of the post-genome era: a vigorous comparative organismal biology
combined with integrative analyses of biological problems, employing the
most recent tools in bioinformatics and genomics.
 This training
program will take place in an interactive and supportive research community
that places great value on training graduate students and postdoctoral
associates to meet the challenges of the modern biology. Special emphasis is
placed on developing the conceptual and technical tools of integrative
biology, with extensive opportunities to work in diverse labs. There are
opportunities to study the organisms in their native environments, from
Illinois to the Amazon Basin. We also provide special opportunities to
enhance professional development skills, including scientific writing,
public speaking, and obtaining grant funding. Support is available to
qualified applicants through teaching assistantships, research
assistantships, and fellowships.
All trainees
will be able to benefit from an extraordinary range of expertise,
outstanding state-of-the-art facilities, and excellent field sites, both
temperate and tropical. |
