The Integrative and Comparative Biology PhD Scholarship at the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW), United States, is a funded doctoral research opportunity offered through the Animal Evolution & Ecology Lab (WAVE Lab) in the Department of Biology and Marine Biology. The project focuses on animal color ecology, camouflage evolution, mammal and bird ecology, and evolutionary biology. Successful applicants receive a combination of Research Assistantship and Teaching Assistantship support, an annual stipend of up to USD $25,000, and a full tuition waiver.
About the Integrative and Comparative Biology PhD Scholarship
The WAVE Lab at the University of North Carolina Wilmington is seeking a PhD student for admission into the Integrative and Comparative Biology PhD Program beginning in January 2027.
The research project investigates the evolution and ecology of camouflage in mammals and birds. Students will explore how coloration, environmental conditions, and evolutionary processes influence camouflage effectiveness and adaptation across species.
The project combines multiple research areas, including:
- Animal color ecology
- Camouflage ecology
- Evolutionary biology
- Mammal ecology
- Bird ecology
- Comparative biology
- Molecular ecology
- Phylogenetic analysis
The successful student will work under the supervision of Dr. Sean Mahoney in the Animal Evolution & Ecology Lab and will participate in field, laboratory, museum, and computational research activities.
Why Choose The Integrative and Comparative Biology PhD Scholarship?
This PhD provides an excellent opportunity to conduct advanced research in animal ecology and evolution while receiving full financial support.
You benefit from:
- Full tuition waiver
- Annual stipend of up to USD $25,000
- Research and teaching assistantship funding
- Access to advanced hyperspectral and spectrophotometry technologies
- Opportunities for fieldwork in diverse and remote environments
- Training in molecular ecology and evolutionary genetics
- Experience with museum-based research collections
- Mentorship within a leading animal ecology research laboratory
The programme prepares students for careers in:
- Academic research
- Wildlife ecology
- Evolutionary biology
- Conservation science
- Museum research
- Government and environmental agencies
Integrative and Comparative Biology PhD Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: United States
- Host University: University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW)
- Department: Biology and Marine Biology
- Research Lab: Animal Evolution & Ecology Lab (WAVE Lab)
- Scholarship Name: Integrative and Comparative Biology PhD Scholarship
- Study Level: PhD
- Funding Type: Research Assistantship and Teaching Assistantship
- Research Area: Animal Ecology, Camouflage Ecology, Evolutionary Biology
- Duration: PhD Programme Duration
- Study Mode: Full-Time, On-Campus
- Location: Wilmington, North Carolina, USA
- Annual Stipend: Up to USD $25,000
- Tuition Support: Full Tuition Waiver
- Application Deadline: 4 September 2026
- Expected Start Date: January 2027
Scholarship Benefits
The Integrative and Comparative Biology PhD Scholarship provides:
- Annual stipend of up to USD $25,000
- Full tuition waiver
- Research Assistantship support
- Teaching Assistantship support
- Training in advanced ecological and evolutionary research methods
- Access to hyperspectral imaging and spectrophotometry equipment
- Opportunities for field and museum-based research
- Professional development and publication opportunities
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this scholarship, applicants should demonstrate interest and experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Animal ecology and evolution
- Camouflage ecology
- Mammal ecology
- Bird ecology
- Color science
- Molecular ecology
- Evolutionary genetics
Desired qualifications include:
- Training in mammal or bird ecology and evolution
- Experience using color science models in R or Python
- Experience with comparative phylogenetic analyses
- Experience with Resonon hyperspectral cameras
- Experience with Ocean Optics spectrophotometry equipment
- Remote fieldwork experience in challenging environments
- Experience working with museum collections
- DNA extraction and genetic analysis experience
- Scientific publication record appropriate to career stage
- Completed a BS degree
- Completed MS degree (preferred but not required)
Applicants do not need to possess all qualifications to be considered.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following as a single PDF file:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover Letter (maximum two pages)
- Contact information for three references
The cover letter should:
- Explain interest in the PhD programme
- Describe relevant research experience
- Demonstrate alignment with desired qualifications
- Outline long-term career goals
Application Process & Timeline
Follow these steps:
- Review the research opportunity and desired qualifications.
- Prepare a CV highlighting scientific training and research experience.
- Write a cover letter explaining your research interests and career goals.
- Compile contact information for three references.
- Combine all application materials into a single PDF file.
- Email the application package directly to Dr. Sean Mahoney.
- Participate in an initial screening interview if shortlisted.
- Visit campus during the fall semester if invited.
- Apply formally to the UNCW Integrative and Comparative Biology PhD Program.
- Complete the university admission process after supervisor approval.
