Diversity and inclusion are more than just words for us. These are central in guiding how we come together as a research team, cultivate excellence, and go forth into the world to share our discoveries and our love of our work. If this sounds good to you, then please inquire about joining the lab!
It's 2023 and the lab is growing! This is a great time to join our team. Are you ready to do some great science and have fun?
It's 2023 and the lab is growing! This is a great time to join our team. Are you ready to do some great science and have fun?
Research scientist
Would you like to engage in cutting-edge research, but not have to think about writing grant proposals and papers? Do you have strong organizational skills, enjoy handling fascinating insects, and like working with students? If so, then this position could be for you! I am hiring a research scientist to start in August 2023 (start date flexible). This position is for someone with a Ph.D., though I will consider those with a M.S. degree as well. What matters most is a positive attitude, dedication to learn, communication skills, and organization skills. The successful applicant will run NSF-funded experiments, engage with a broad group of researchers across fields, keep the lab organized and running smoothly, and work closely with undergraduate and M.S. - level researchers. I care about the people who work with me, and all positions involve opportunities to pursue your own interests and to work to your own strengths. If you'd like to know more about what this position could mean for you, please first send your CV to cwmiller@ufl.edu and ask if the position is still available. If so, then, download a copy of the application document and send it along with your CV, cover letter, and contact information for three references to Dr. Miller, cwmiller@ufl.edu. I am currently considering applications and will continue to consider them on a rolling basis until the position is filled. The salary is at least $50,000 plus benefits, and funding has been secured for three years.
Postdoctoral researchers
Opportunity #1: In February 2024 an exciting position is opening up for a postdoctoral researcher to work on NSF-funded experiments for up to three years. We need someone with Ph.D. research experience in biomechanics, evolutionary biology, animal behavior or all three (no previous experience with insects is required). This project involves working with collaborators at KIT Germany, the University of Cambridge, and Imperial College. I am considering applications on a rolling basis, so it is better to apply sooner rather than later. For the initial application, send your CV and cover letter to cwmiller@ufl.edu. In your cover letter, please clearly explain 1) your expertise and major accomplishments in the areas mentioned, 2) how your previous research experience is relevant to the topics addressed by this research group, and 3) how your career will benefit from working in the Miller Lab. Due to the sheer volume of applications received, I will not be able to consider or respond to applicants that do not clearly address these three points. The salary is at least $50,000 plus benefits for at least 2.5 years. This position is open to international applicants as well as those from the United States.
Opportunity #2: Are you interested in a National Science Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship? If so, I will work on you to put together ideas for your proposal. I'm especially interested in applicants who would like to work on 1) animal weapon evolution and biomechanics or 2) the influence of ecological factors on the construction of the arthropod cuticle. Send me an email, Dr. Miller, cwmiller@ufl.edu by June 1, 2023 for the NSF deadline in November 2023. This position is open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
Opportunity #2: Are you interested in a National Science Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship? If so, I will work on you to put together ideas for your proposal. I'm especially interested in applicants who would like to work on 1) animal weapon evolution and biomechanics or 2) the influence of ecological factors on the construction of the arthropod cuticle. Send me an email, Dr. Miller, cwmiller@ufl.edu by June 1, 2023 for the NSF deadline in November 2023. This position is open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
Prospective graduate students
I am looking for students with substantial research experience and strong motivation to do great science. You do NOT need previous experience with insects, instead I'm looking for researchers with a solid understanding of evolutionary biology, ecology, and/or animal behavior. The next positions available are specifically to work at the interface of ecology, evolution, biomechanics, and behavior under a grant from the National Science Foundation. We aim to understand the role of nutrition on the construction of a sexually selected weapon and the consequences for fighting behavior. If you would like to be considered, send an email to Dr. Christine Miller, cwmiller@ufl.edu, no later than October 1st, 2023. In this email, please include 1) a description of the kinds of research questions that motivate you, 2) how your previous work inspires your current interests and ties to work in this lab, 3) a brief overview of any publications, presentations, and your academic experiences, 4) a CV, 5) an unofficial transcript, and 5) why you feel you are ready for graduate school. I sort through applications and hold interviews before students apply to the UF Graduate Program (to save students time and money). View my mentor/mentee compact to understand expectations before joining the program. Graduate positions are open to international students and those from the USA.
Graduate student funding: All accepted graduate students receive UF tuition, a stipend, and health benefits. Funding for graduate students comes from grants to the lab, fellowships and assistantships from the University of Florida, and outside sources such as the NSF GRFP. Have you heard of the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program? The NSF GRFP recognizes and supports outstanding graduate students in NSF-supported STEM disciplines who are pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral degrees at accredited US institutions. The five-year fellowship includes three years of financial support including an annual stipend of at least $34,000 and a cost of education allowance of $12,000 to the institution. If you are interested in writing a NSF GRFP proposal, contact me by July 1st (the summer before you plan to apply for graduate school; well over a year before starting)! The NSF GRFP is only open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
Graduate student funding: All accepted graduate students receive UF tuition, a stipend, and health benefits. Funding for graduate students comes from grants to the lab, fellowships and assistantships from the University of Florida, and outside sources such as the NSF GRFP. Have you heard of the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program? The NSF GRFP recognizes and supports outstanding graduate students in NSF-supported STEM disciplines who are pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral degrees at accredited US institutions. The five-year fellowship includes three years of financial support including an annual stipend of at least $34,000 and a cost of education allowance of $12,000 to the institution. If you are interested in writing a NSF GRFP proposal, contact me by July 1st (the summer before you plan to apply for graduate school; well over a year before starting)! The NSF GRFP is only open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
Undergraduate research positions & internships
Are you interested in scientific research? Are you considering a career in evolutionary biology, ecology, or animal behavior? If so, this is the lab for you. Drop us a line to see if we have any undergraduate research positions or internships available. Your research will matter -- it will advance science and the results of your work may even end up being taught in university courses! Academic credit is available for at least the first semester, and then many students apply for funding through the University Scholars Program, McNair Program, and others. We have high standards for our undergraduate researchers, and the sky is the limit in terms of undergraduate successes. This lab is a great place to start your scientific research career! For inquiries, email Dr. Miller, cwmiller@ufl.edu with your resume and a cover letter. Undergraduate research positions and internships are available to those from the U.S. and international applicants.
Learn about Ummat's Ph.D. experience!