We invite applications for the Arthropod Field Ecology Course, an intensive two-week residential training programme for PhD scholars and recent PhD graduates interested in arthropod ecology and field-based research to be conducted in Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh. The course will be conducted from 24th October 2026 to 6th November 2026 at the NCBS Field Station, Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh. 
 
The course will provide participants with hands-on experience in study design, field sampling for ecological research and basic taxonomic skills focusing on a few major arthropod groups. Emphasis will be placed on developing skills for using arthropods as study organisms in ecological, evolutionary and behavioural research. Through lectures, fieldwork, lab sessions, and group discussions, participants will explore classical and emerging topics in arthropod ecology. The course is designed to provide both conceptual understanding and practical skills that participants can apply in their own ecological research on arthropods. A vital component of the course will involve student-led field projects, proposal development, presentations, and expert feedback, enabling participants to apply the concepts learned in arthropod ecosystems.
 
Eligibility:
ONLY Candidates who are currently pursuing PhD or have recently completed their doctoral degree are eligible. 
Applicants who only have or are pursuing Masters or Bachelors degrees are NOT eligible, this decision is final. Refer to FAQ for strict eligibility criteria.
 
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 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.
 
Applicants who have a track record of working with arthropods or are pursuing their dissertation research on arthropods will be strongly preferred. If you are not currently working with arthropod-related themes you have to strongly justify why you should be considered for the course (e.g. you are proposing to expand to arthropods in your research).
 
Location: Participants will be hosted at NCBS Field Station, Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh.
Date: 24th October 2026 to 6th November 2026

Intake: 15 participants.

Application timelines
Opening date: 9:30 AM (0930 hours) on 28th August 2026
Closing date: 5 PM (1700 hours) on 18th September 2026
Interview: Mid September 2026
Results: Mid September 2026.

Course fees: No course fees. Accommodation and meals are covered by us.

Limited grants are available to cover travel on a need basis. We provide travel support only to applicants who do not currently have any fellowships/scholarships, or are unemployed after graduation.

Information/documents required:

  1. Updated CV: indicating all previous projects, works experience, and qualifications relevant to the course. Please mention the year you started your PhD degree, the institution, and completion year (for early career applicants).
  2. Letter of support: from your supervisor or mentor who can evaluate the suitability of this course for your PhD / research career and can provide an assessment of your motivation and aptitude to attend the course. Additionally the letter should outline the usefulness of attending this course to the specific research you are carrying out. If you want to seek funds to cover travel please inform your supervisor to clearly state that you currently do not have any fellowship/scholarships or source of funds, in the letter justifying the request. 
  3. Writing sample: We want to see a sample of your scientific writing. This can be a) your Masters Thesis, OR b) a co-authored scientific article where your role is clear, OR c) a co-authored technical report, OR d) popular writing in a periodical/online blog etc.
  4. Statement of Interest (to be entered in online form): this document should mention why you want to attend the course. It should outline your motivation, how the course aligns with your research plan, and how it can be applied to your ongoing or recently completed research.
     

Refer our FAQ section for questions/queries before applying. 

Click here to apply
(Deadline extended to 18th September 2026, 5 PM)

Click here to download poster in PDF

NCBS Arthropod Field Course 2026