Arthropods are the most diverse and abundant group of animals on Earth, playing essential roles in nearly every ecosystem. Which is why, Indica School is excited to partner with Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Tiruvananthapuram to offer the Arthropod Ecology and Taxonomy course! This course is designed for PhD students and early career ecologists seeking to deepen their understanding of arthropod diversity, ecology, and ecological functions. The course offers a research-oriented approach that blends theoretical foundations with practical experience.

Participants will gain hands-on skills in both field sampling techniques and laboratory-based identification, focusing on a few major arthropod groups: ants, spiders, beetles, centipedes, bees, aquatic insects, butterflies and moths. Emphasis will be placed on accurate taxonomic identification, ecological roles, and the use of arthropods as model organisms in ecological research.

Through lectures, fieldwork, lab sessions, and group discussions, students will explore topics such as arthropod biodiversity, community ecology, ecological interactions among other topics. The course is ideal for those aiming to pursue specialized research on arthropods or integrate into broader ecological studies.

By the end of the course, participants will have developed a practical taxonomic skill set and an ecological framework essential for designing and interpreting arthropod-focused research in any ecosystem.

Eligibility: The opportunity is open only to students currently pursuing their PhD, or early career researchers who have recently completed their doctoral studies. In an effort to support greater equity and inclusion within the academic and research community, we strongly encourage applications from individuals based in regions or communities that have historically had limited access to similar opportunities. While all applications will be reviewed based on alignment with the program's goals, we are committed to inclusivity and diversity.
 
If you are not currently enrolled for a PhD program or if you have not completed a PhD degree recently, you are NOT eligible.
 

Learning: Provide a broad introduction to conducting ecological research using arthropods as model systems.

Contents: Mix of field-based, lab-based and lecture sessions to cover
  • Foundations of ecological science;
  • Ethics and regulations;
  • Fundamental skills to identify a few major arthropod taxa.

Students will conduct group projects encompassing all steps involved in arthropod ecological research.

Venue: Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Thiruvananthapuram (IISER TVM). The campus, ensconced in the Western Ghats, provides a great setting for the students to learn field skills and conduct the project at the end of the course
Dates: 28th September 2025 to 11th October 2025 (14 days)
Intake: 15 students
Course Fees: Nil  Meals and accommodation: Rs. 5600/-
Grant to cover travel, food and accommodation is available
Application Timeline:
  • Opens: 1st July 2025
  • Closes: 15th July 2025 22nd July 2025 (deadline extended)
  • Final selection will be made by 2nd week of August
Documents Required: The following documents are required when applying
  • Updated CV in PDF format
  • Writing sample (this can be your dissertation OR coauthored scientific article OR writing in periodicals or blogs OR technical report) in PDF format
  • Letter of support from Head of Department/Centre or Supervisor. If you wish to apply for grants to cover travel, food and accommodation, this letter should also state that funds are needed by the student to cover travel, meals and accommodation. This should be in PDF format.

For additional details, contact indicaschool at ncbs dot res dot in

This initiative is generously funded by     

Click Here To Apply

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