Our Higher Education Teaching Award celebrates exceptional teachers and lecturers of insect science at universities, colleges, and research institutions worldwide, who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in teaching entomology at the undergraduate, postgraduate, or lifelong learning levels.
This award recognises educators who bring innovation and research insight to preparing the next generation of entomologists. The award is part of the Royal Entomological Society’s commitment to support excellence in education and to recognise those who inspire their students to pursue research, fieldwork, and further study in entomology.
Whether through course design, mentoring students, or innovative teaching methods, these educators play an essential role in the future of insect science.
Higher Education Teaching Award at a Glance
| Prize | £400
Certificate
RES membership for 1 year |
| Purpose | Recognise outstanding teaching and mentoring in higher and lifelong education |
| Eligibility | Educators teaching entomology at undergraduate, postgraduate, or adult education level.
Nominees and nominators do not need to be currently a member. |
| Deadline | 31 December 2026 |
| Decision body | RES Education Committee. |
Application Guidance
Please read the information below carefully before applying for this award, paying particular attention to the assessment criteria.
Objectives
The award aims to:
- Recognise educators who deliver innovative, research-led teaching in entomology at higher education and lifelong learning institutions.
- Celebrate those who have demonstrated excellence in mentoring and supporting student research in insect science.
- Highlight teaching practices that combine taught learning with practical and field applications.
- Promote educators who make entomology accessible and engaging to a diverse range of students, including those from underrepresented backgrounds.
Eligibility
This award is open to educators at
- Universities and colleges
- Research institutions
- Adult and lifelong learning institutions
Nominees must be teaching at the undergraduate or postgraduate level, or in adult education, and have a proven track record in the teaching of entomology or insect-related science.
International educators are eligible and encouraged to apply.
Self-nominations and third-party nominations are accepted.
RES membership is not required.
Assessment Criteria
Nominees should show evidence of impactful teaching practice. Strong nominations will demonstrate:
- Excellence in Teaching: Demonstration of innovative and effective teaching methods in entomology. How does the nominee engage and inspire students?
- Research Integration: How does the nominee integrate their research into teaching? Are there clear links between their teaching and the latest developments in insect science?
- Mentorship & Student Success: Has the nominee successfully mentored students who have gone on to impactful careers or further study in entomology?
- Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: How has the nominee promoted inclusivity and supported a diverse range of students in their teaching and mentoring?
How to Nominate
Nominations should include:
- A completed nomination form
- Optional links to professional profiles and teaching resources
- Links to the nominee’s social media, website, or LinkedIn profile (optional but encouraged) to highlight their academic contributions and outreach work.
Key Dates
Deadline: 31 December 2026
Assessment Process
Nominations are assessed by the RES Education Committee.
Decisions are based on published criteria and collective review.
All decisions are final.
Prize and recognition
- £400
- Certificate
- One year of RES membership
Recipients are recognised at the RES Annual Conference and through Society communications.
Successful Recipients
2025 Winner
Chris Foster, University of Reading
2024 Winner
Heather Campbell, Harper Adams University
Related Award – Teaching Young People
Know someone who deserves recognition for creatively introducing entomology to children and young people of school-age learning?
Visit our Teaching Insect Science to Young People Award instead.
Have you received a RES Award or Grant?
