Funded PhD Position on Soil Pesticide Residues and Bee Conservation at the University of Guelph, Canada
Are you passionate about pollinator conservation, environmental science, ecology, or sustainable agriculture? The University of Guelph in Canada is offering a funded four-year PhD position that explores one of the most important yet understudied challenges in modern agriculture: the impact of soil pesticide residues on soil-dependent bees. Hosted by the School of Environmental Sciences, this doctoral opportunity is part of the Horizon Europe-funded ProPollSoil project, an international research initiative focused on protecting pollinators by improving soil health. The successful candidate will work with leading researchers in Canada and Ireland while contributing to research with real-world implications for biodiversity, food security, and environmental sustainability.
The University of Guelph is widely recognized for excellence in agricultural, environmental, and life sciences research. Its strong emphasis on sustainability, biodiversity, and interdisciplinary collaboration makes it an outstanding destination for doctoral students interested in solving global environmental challenges. Through the Horizon Europe ProPollSoil network, students gain valuable international experience while working on research that can influence agricultural policy, pollinator conservation, and ecosystem management worldwide.
The Funded PhD Position on Soil Pesticide Residues and Soil-Dependent Bees at the University of Guelph offers an exceptional opportunity for aspiring researchers interested in pollinator conservation, ecology, environmental science, and sustainable agriculture. As part of the internationally funded ProPollSoil consortium, doctoral students will work on research with global significance, contribute to protecting essential pollinator species, and collaborate with leading scientists across Canada and Europe. If you are eager to advance scientific knowledge while helping shape more sustainable agricultural systems, this PhD represents an outstanding opportunity to launch your research career.
Scholarship Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Host University | University of Guelph |
| Country | Canada |
| School | School of Environmental Sciences |
| Degree | PhD |
| Funding | Fully Funded |
| Duration | 4 Years |
| Research Area | Soil Health, Pollinator Ecology, Pesticides, Environmental Science |
| International Project | Horizon Europe – ProPollSoil |
| Supervisor | Prof. Nigel Raine |
| International Collaborator | Dr. Dara Stanley (University College Dublin, Ireland) |
| Application Deadline | 21 August 2026 |
| Expected Start | September 2026 |
About the Research Project
Modern agriculture relies on pesticides to protect crops and improve yields. However, increasing evidence suggests that these chemicals may also affect beneficial insects that are essential for healthy ecosystems. Most previous research has focused on how bees are exposed to pesticides through nectar, pollen, seed treatments, or spray drift. Far less is known about the risks posed by pesticide residues that remain in soil, despite the fact that approximately 70% of all bee species depend on soil for at least part of their life cycle.
This PhD project aims to close that knowledge gap by investigating how soil pesticide residues influence the health, survival, and behavior of wild bees. The findings will contribute to developing safer agricultural practices that balance crop production with pollinator protection.
Research Focus
The doctoral project will examine how pesticide-contaminated soils affect different soil-dependent bee species, including:
- Solitary ground-nesting bees
- Hoary squash bees (Xenoglossa pruinosa)
- Bumble bee queens
The research combines laboratory experiments with semi-field studies to understand exposure pathways and biological effects under realistic environmental conditions. Students will gain experience in:
- Pollinator ecology
- Environmental toxicology
- Soil science
- Experimental design
- Behavioral ecology
- Conservation biology
- Laboratory and field research
About the ProPollSoil Project
The PhD is funded through ProPollSoil, a Horizon Europe research project titled: Understanding and Managing Soil Health Impacts to Protect Soil-Dependent Pollinators. The project brings together researchers from multiple institutions across Europe and North America to investigate how soil health influences pollinator populations. As part of this international consortium, the PhD candidate will collaborate closely with:
- Prof. Nigel Raine (University of Guelph)
- Dr. Dara Stanley (University College Dublin)
- Researchers from the wider ProPollSoil network
This collaboration offers valuable international research experience and opportunities to contribute to high-impact scientific publications.
Supervision and Research Environment
The successful applicant will join the Raine Lab within the School of Environmental Sciences at the University of Guelph. The laboratory is internationally recognized for research on:
- Bee biology
- Pollinator conservation
- Sustainable agriculture
- Environmental toxicology
- Ecosystem services
Students benefit from an interdisciplinary research environment with access to advanced laboratory facilities, experimental field sites, and global collaborations.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants should hold a Master’s degree (MSc or equivalent) in a relevant field. Suitable academic backgrounds include:
- Behavioural Ecology
- Ecology
- Conservation Biology
- Entomology
- Zoology
- Environmental Sciences
- Agricultural Sciences
- Ecotoxicology
- Related biological sciences
Preferred Qualifications
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
- Strong interest in pollinator research
- Experience in ecological or environmental research
- Laboratory and/or fieldwork involving insects
- Scientific writing skills
- Motivation to work within an international research team
Previous research experience with insects is highly desirable but not mandatory.
Funding and Benefits
The selected PhD student will receive:
- Funding for a four-year doctoral programme
- Membership in the international Horizon Europe ProPollSoil consortium
- Supervision by internationally recognized researchers
- Opportunities for collaboration with University College Dublin
- Access to modern laboratory and research facilities
- Training in experimental ecology, pollinator science, and environmental research
- Opportunities to publish research and attend scientific conferences
Required Application Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents:
1. Cover Letter
A motivation letter (maximum two pages) explaining:
- Why you are interested in the project
- Your research background
- Your motivation for pursuing this PhD
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Include:
- Research experience
- Academic achievements
- Relevant skills
- Contact information for two academic or scientific referees
3. Academic Transcripts
Copies of unofficial university transcripts for previous degrees.
4. Scientific Writing Sample
Submit one example of your academic writing, such as:
- Research paper
- Laboratory report
- Thesis chapter
- Scientific manuscript
- Published article
- Academic essay
How to Apply
Applications should be submitted by email. Email Subject: Soil pesticide PhD application; Send all required documents to: Prof. Nigel Raine Email: nraine@uoguelph.ca Supervisor: the PhD student will be supervised by Prof. Nigel Raine as part of the Raine Lab in the School of Environmental Sciences at the University of Guelph.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 21 August 2026 |
| Review of Applications | Begins Immediately |
| Expected Start Date | September 2026 |
Applications will continue to be reviewed until the position is filled, so early submission is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this PhD position fully funded?
Yes. The position is funded for four years through the Horizon Europe-supported ProPollSoil project.
Where is the PhD based?
The PhD is based at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada.
What is the duration of the programme?
The doctoral programme is funded for four years.
What research topics are covered?
The project focuses on:
- Pollinator ecology
- Bee conservation
- Soil pesticide residues
- Environmental toxicology
- Soil health
- Sustainable agriculture
- Conservation biology
Do I need a Master’s degree?
Yes. Applicants should have completed a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant scientific discipline.
Is previous experience with insects required?
Experience working with insects in laboratory or field settings is highly desirable but not strictly required.
What documents are required?
Applicants must submit:
- Cover letter
- CV
- Academic transcripts
- Scientific writing sample
- Contact details for two academic references
When is the application deadline?
Applications should be submitted by 21 August 2026. Reviews begin immediately, and the position will remain open until filled.
Who will supervise the PhD?
The successful candidate will be supervised by Prof. Nigel Raine at the University of Guelph and collaborate with Dr. Dara Stanley at University College Dublin.
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