The National Science Foundation Division of Environmental Biology awarded the University of Alaska Fairbanks $746,168 on January 1, 2027, under the Biological Sciences program (CFDA 47.074) to conduct phylogenomic research on snow scorpionflies (Mecoptera: Boreidae) and clarify their evolutionary relationships and species diversity.
The project will combine morphological, geographic, and genomic data through fieldwork and analysis of museum specimens to generate comprehensive, time-calibrated phylogenies for the family. Deliverables include whole genome sequences for most snow scorpionfly species—a first for the group—a curated museum collection of specimens, and an identification key for adults. Researchers will use phylogenetic analysis to clarify species boundaries and detect previously undiscovered species across the northern hemisphere where these cold-adapted, flightless insects are rarely observed.
The award supports STEM education and public engagement with emphasis on K-12 students through museum exhibits, online publication of results, and summer "bug camps" taught by researchers. Performance occurs in Fairbanks, Alaska, with a period of performance from January 1, 2027, through December 31, 2029. The Biological Sciences program supports basic research to promote progress in biological sciences and strengthen the Nation's scientific enterprise.