********************GradStudentPositions******************** Reproductive division of labor in facultative eusocial Hymenoptera 1 PhD Position (funding for four years), Department of Zoology, Charles University, Prague Supervisor: Michael Mikát Starting date: October 2026 Deadline of call: 6st March, 2026 Insect societies are among the most successful and fascinating outcomes of evolution, largely due to the presence of workers individuals who sacrifice their own reproduction to support the reproduction of others. Reproductive altruism is a central concept in the study of social insects, yet much remains unknown about the conditions that enable its emergence. While a substantial body of theoretical research exists on the origins of reproductive altruism, few studies have investigated the extent of this phenomenon in simple insect societies. This project seeks to explore reproductive skew in carpenter bees (Xylocopinae), a group characterized by relatively simple social structures, using genetic markers. Student will assess within-nest relatedness across 10 Xylocopinae species and integrate our findings with data from approximately 20 other simple social Hymenoptera species. By identifying the key factors influencing reproductive skew and testing the applicability of existing reproductive skew models, we aim to refine or develop more accurate models. Ultimately, our research seeks to shed light on the origins and persistence of reproductive division of labor, advancing our understanding of the evolution of social insects. Required Qualifications: - MSc degree (for Ph.D. applicants) in the field of biology. - Strong writing and communication skills. - Interest in the evolution of social insects. - Passion for biology. Preferred Qualifications: - Experience with entomological research. - Proficiency in statistical analysis (e.g., R). - Programming skills (e.g., Python). - Experience with bioinformatics. - Ability to work and endure harsh field conditions. - Familiarity with relatedness analysis, particularly using microsatellites. Prospective candidates should submit an academic CV (including a list of publications). Additionally, please provide a motivation letter addressing the following points: a) The biological questions and approaches that interest you most. b) Your interest in and experience with social insects. c) Your previous experience in biological research. d) Provide references to senior researchers you have collaborated with in the past. The deadline for this call is March 6, 2026. The most promising candidates will be invited to an online meeting, which will take place during March. Supervisor: Michael Mikát https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Michael-Mikat?ev=hdr_xprf Team members: Jiøí Hadrava, Daniel Benda Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic Contact: michael.mikat@gmail.com (if you are interested to additional info, do not hesitate to ask) Michael Mikát (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca) ********************Jobs******************** Hobart and William Smith Colleges Visiting Assistant Professor of Biology (Ecology and Evolution) Position Description: Hobart and William Smith Colleges invites applications for a Visiting Assistant Professor of Biology position in Ecology and Evolution to begin August 1, 2026. This is a full-time, one-year position with a teaching load of six courses over two semesters. The appointment has the possibility for renewal contingent on successful annual review and ongoing curricular needs. Teaching responsibilities will include one or more core courses (Introductory Biology, Ecology, Evolution, or Biostatistics) and upper-level courses in the candidate's area of expertise. The teaching load typically entails two classes with associated labs and two lecture-only classes. HWS Biology courses have access to field-based resources, including a campus forest, a research vessel on Seneca Lake, and a 100-acre field station a short distance from the main campus, as well as molecular biology facilities, microscopy, and computing resources. About HWS: A liberal arts and sciences institution, Hobart and William Smith is known for consistent success in preparing students for meaningful lives and fulfilling careers through an outcomes-based focus on their futures. Our nationally ranked faculty are accessible teachers and scholars known for the impact of their research and distinguished by the depth of their mentorship. World challenges are studied in the classroom where critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills are honed. In the field, knowledge turns into discovery. In office hours, plans are carefully crafted to tie interests and talents to an academic path that motivates beyond graduation. Our location in the heart of the Finger Lakes allows faculty, staff and students to live and work collaboratively on the banks of a resource-rich lake. Student-athletes play for 30 varsity teams boasting 24 national titles, including the 2023 and 2024 NCAA DIII Men's Ice Hockey Championships. With three graduate programs, students can build on their undergraduate degree with a Master of Arts in Higher Education Leadership, Master of Arts in Teaching, or a Master of Science in Management. Together, the experiences and mentorship at HWS prepare students to lead lives of consequence. Qualifications: Candidates with a Ph.D. in an appropriate field and college-level teaching experience are strongly preferred, but A.B.D. with college-level teaching experience will be considered. Application Instructions: Candidates should submit the following materials via Interfolio: cover letter including potential courses they could teach, curriculum vitae, contact information for three confidential professional references, a one-page statement of teaching philosophy with evidence of teaching effectiveness and attention to inclusivity in the classroom, and a one-page statement summarizing their research interests. Review of applications will begin January 20, 2026, and continue until the position is filled. Specific inquiries about the position may be directed to Dr. Shannon Straub, Chair of the Biology Department (straub@hws.edu). The salary range for this position is $59,160-$68,000. https://apply.interfolio.com/179542 Questions regarding Interfolio or visa status should be directed to Human Resources (hr@hws.edu). Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The Colleges are an equal employment opportunity employer and prohibit discrimination and harassment in their programs and activities against employees or applicants based on race (including traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles), color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity or expression, age, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, citizenship, genetic information or predisposing genetic characteristics, marital status, familial status, domestic violence victim status, caregiver status, military status, including past, current, or prospective service in the uniformed services, social class, or any other category or characteristic protected by applicable law. "Straub, Shannon" (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca) ********************Jobs******************** The Department of Entomology at the University of Maryland seeks a full-time, Professional-track (non-tenure) faculty Lecturer to contribute to the undergraduate curriculum in the Biological Sciences Program (BSCI). The position begins on August 1, 2026. The appointee will teach 2 undergraduate courses per semester to include Introductory Biology, Organismal Biology, and/or Genetics. Duties include preparation and presentation of course materials, supervision and coordination of teaching assistants, and other duties as needed to accomplish the instructional mission[DH1] . The appointee will also be a member of the department's academic advising team. This is a 9.0-month position with opportunities for separately compensated teaching in summer or winter terms. As a faculty member in the Entomology Department, the appointee will participate in departmental and campus service. To apply, please submit to the Job Link ( https://umd.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/UMCP/details/Lecturer_JR102962-1) a cover letter, curriculum vitae, statement of teaching philosophy, and names of 3 individuals on this job link who we may contact for letters of reference, by February 15, 2026, for best consideration. Andy Yeh (to subscribe/unsubscribe the EvolDir send mail to golding@mcmaster.ca)