PhD Studentship Conservation Biology of the Threatened Killarney Fern (Trichomanes speciosum) in Ireland.
National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin and Trinity College, Dublin Trichomanes speciosum is categorized as Endangered in Ireland, and is listed in Annex II of the EU Habitats Directive. The aims of this fully funded project are to contribute to the conservation management of this species by assessing clonal growth, reproduction and population differentiation. This will require the development of appropriate field monitoring methods, site characterization, assessment of population sizes, use of molecular markers to provide population genetic information, and the development of conservation management guidelines for the species. The research will be co-supervised by Dr Noeleen Smyth (National Botanic Garden,Glasnevin) and Dr Steve Waldren (Botany Department, Trinity College Dublin). Conditions of the award: Applicants should have a first or upper second class primary degree, or an MSc, in a appropriate discipline (Botany, Environmental Science). Familiarity with molecular techniques, field survey work, and an ability to drive are all highly desirable, as well as a capacity for both individual research and integration into team work. The starting date for the position is October 2008. Amount of the award: Successful candidates will receive a stipend of 16,002 per year for up to three years. Fees for postgraduate students from the EU will be fully covered by the project. There will be opportunities to earn extra money teaching and demonstrating on undergraduate courses and invigilating examinations. Application procedure: submit a current CV, a letter containing a statement of interest,and the names and contact details of two referees to Dr N. Smyth (National Botanic Garden, Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland. Phone: +353-1-8040327, Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED], from whom further details may be obtained. Closing Date: 10th May 08.
