Our research group at Concordia University investigates the forces enabling the maintenance, and governing the distribution, of biological diversity contemporarily and historically. Some of our work aims to use such information to better predict how biodiversity will change in the face of global changes. We also have an interest in understanding how human-driven community reassembly will reshape ecosystem processes. We combine theoretical and empirical work, and most of our field-based projects focus on insects (ants, dragonflies, bees) and the role they play in ecosystems.
We welcome highly motivated PhD students to develop their own research project within our lab’s themes, leveraging existing datasets and generating new ones.
Current research questions include
• What are the ecological and evolutionary determinants of range limits and dynamics in
the context of environmental changes?
• What are the rules governing the assembly of ecological networks, including
plant-pollinator networks, plant-microbial networks and host-parasite networks?
• What is the role of ants and other soil arthropods in nutrient cycling and carbon storage?
Ideal candidates will have
• Strong background in ecology, biogeography, evolution
• Proficiency in R or other programming languages
• Experience with large datasets and analytical skills
• Prior fieldwork experience (an asset)
• Knowledge of ecological modeling and/or spatial analysis (an asset)
Other useful skills include
• Mathematics
• Insect physiology and metabolism
• Biochemistry
The position includes funding for stipend (via Concordia University scholarships) and research activities, with opportunities for teaching and professional development. International students are eligible for tuition waivers. Priority will go to candidates who are competitive for external funding and have previous experience with scientific publishing.
To apply
Email Dr. Jean-Philippe Lessard (jp.lessard@concordia.ca) with:
3-4 paragraphs describing research interests and fit for the position
Updated CV
Unofficial transcripts
Deadline: January 8th, 2026
Start date: August 2026
We welcome applications from diverse backgrounds and encourage minorities to apply. Concordia University is nested within the vibrant city of Montreal, Canada, both of which are very diverse and inclusive. Our lab group welcomes students from the global south and the LGBTQ+ community.
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