Graduate Position: Grassland Arthropod Ecology at Kansas State University

The Smithsonian Institute is hiring a graduate student for a funded position in Grassland Arthropod Ecology at Kansas State University, starting Spring 2026. The role involves field research on insect communities in Great Plains grasslands, with a focus on ecological roles. The position offers a stipend of $28,193.88, full tuition waiver, and healthcare. Applicants need a Bachelor’s degree by January 2026 and a strong interest in ecology.
Position Overview

Salary: $28,193.88 per year
Application Deadline: 06/15/2025
Starting Date: After 01/01/2026
Hours per Week: 40
Education Required: Bachelor’s Degree
Experience Required: None

The Welti Arthropod Ecology Lab is recruiting a graduate student (MSc or PhD) to study grassland arthropod ecology in Kansas State University’s Division of Biology. This funded position begins in Spring 2026 and offers full tuition, healthcare, and a stipend. Research will focus on insect communities and their ecological roles in Great Plains grasslands, including work at the iconic Konza Prairie Biological Station.

Description

Now transitioning from the Smithsonian’s Great Plains Science Program to Kansas State University, the Welti Lab investigates arthropod community dynamics across space and time. This graduate role offers flexible research focus areas such as herbivore-arthropod interactions, nutrient cycling, or long-term trait changes in grasshoppers. Students will join a collaborative and inclusive research team and benefit from access to world-class prairie ecosystems, long-term datasets, and supportive mentorship.

Responsibilities
• Design and conduct original field-based research on grassland arthropods
• Analyze ecological data, including trait and community composition metrics
• Conduct sampling at Konza Prairie and other grassland field sites
• Process large quantities of arthropod samples
• Present findings through reports, publications, and conferences
• Collaborate within the lab and broader research community
• Contribute to a respectful, inclusive, and safe research environment

Minimum Requirements
• Undergraduate degree in ecology, biology, or related field by Jan 2026
• Strong interest in grassland or arthropod ecology
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and in teams
• Willingness to work in the field under hot weather conditions
• Valid driver’s license
• Commitment to lab safety and scientific integrity

Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with arthropod or plant fieldwork
• Identification skills in prairie ecosystems
• Prior research experience or independent projects
• Familiarity with R for statistical analysis
• Experience with ecological survey methods

Additional Notes

This is a fully funded graduate assistantship offering a $28,193.88 annual stipend, full tuition waiver, healthcare coverage, and university fees. The student will be based in Manhattan, Kansas, with fieldwork centered around Konza Prairie Biological Station. The lab emphasizes mentorship, work-life balance, and inclusive scientific collaboration.

How to Apply

Submit a single PDF to elwelti@ksu.edu with the subject line “Arthropod Ecology graduate application”. Your file should include:
• A one-page personal statement detailing your background, interests, and fit
• CV
• Informal undergraduate transcript
• Contact information for three references

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with a final deadline of June 15, 2025. Early submission is encouraged.