HAU/RES Entomology Summer School

The growing need for natural history training calls for a specific focus on insects, the most diverse and abundant group of terrestrial organisms. Despite the recognised national need within the environmental sector for expertise in field survey methods, species identification, and associated laboratory skills there remains a shortage of training programs that address these specific requirements. The HAU/RES Entomology Summer School, a five-day course hosted at Harper Adams University in collaboration with the Royal Entomological Society, seeks to fill this gap. Scheduled for July 2025, the course provides foundational skills for ecological and evolutionary research in entomology, with a particular emphasis on field sampling techniques, insect identification, and essential laboratory skills such as insect culturing and specimen preparation for curation. The summer school prioritises practical skill development through hands-on training in the lab and field, complemented by concise lectures and interactive, student-centered workshops. Its constructivist approach equips participants with the tools for continued self-directed learning, rather than focusing solely on the dissemination of information. Active and problem-based learning methods are employed to foster a deep understanding of key concepts and skill mastery, with both collaborative and individual activities enhancing the learning experience. The course is taught by experienced entomology lecturers and specialised staff from the RES, the UK's leading organisation dedicated to advancing insect science. In addition to its focus on practical skills, the course offers valuable peer-to-peer and professional networking opportunities, creating a platform for participants to share experiences, knowledge, and ideas. These interactions are designed to promote collaboration beyond the course, fostering a supportive and engaged community within the field of entomology. Furthermore, the course includes professional development sessions aimed at equipping participants with the tools needed not only for their research but also for advancing their careers, whether in academia or industry. The HAU/RES Entomology Summer School stands out as the only entomology training program in the UK specifically designed for PhD students and early-career researchers (ECRs). Following the inaugural course in July 2024, participant feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and recommendations have led to several enhancements for the 2025 course. Additions include a lab session on insect culturing and an RES-led workshop on securing small grant funding for entomology research. The course's learning outcomes are aligned with industry needs, addressing identified skill gaps while incorporating feedback from previous attendees. Training is specifically designed for novice entomologists and focuses on key areas such as fieldwork, species identification, and insect culturing. The learning outcomes are as follows: i) Understand the importance of taxonomy and accurate species identification in ecological and evolutionary research. ii) Plan and execute insect field sampling in accordance with research objectives, while assessing the strengths and limitations of various methods. iii) Develop proficiency in specimen curation and preparation for identification. iv) Gain expertise in using online tools and traditional keys for accurate insect identification. v) Acquire knowledge of insect culturing techniques. By focusing on these outcomes, the HAU/RES Entomology Summer School aims to provide a robust foundation for participants to continue developing their skills and knowledge in entomology beyond the course itself.