Graduate Assistantship available in Plant Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Biology
Description: My lab is broadly interested in the evolution and conservation of plants, often focusing on plant hybridization and mating patterns. My research program broadly aims to understand the evolutionary consequences of global climate change, species invasions, and species rarity. More specifically, I study (1) the mechanisms regulating genetic diversity, phenotypic evolution, and population demography in rare and invasive plants and (2) how evolutionary processes (hybridization, adaptation) and properties (mating systems, genetic diversity) affect the ecological function of plant populations (e.g., reproduction, extinction). As such, my research touches on a variety of sub-disciplines, including conservation biology, agricultural ecology, and population dynamics using a combination of field, greenhouse, and eco-informatic approaches. Students are expected to develop their own independent projects but will also have opportunities to collaborate on funded investigations of hybridization, plant evolution, and ecological conservation in North American agricultural and natural plant ecosystems. Ryerson's Chemistry and Biology department program boasts an exceptionally active and growing faculty. Areas of emphasis include environmental and molecular biology. Year-round financial support is available for graduate students. Toronto is an exceptionally diverse community and a wonderful place to live. Applications: I am accepting applications from prospective MSc or PhD students to start a graduate program in September 2011. If you are interested, please email me ([email protected]) a statement of your research interests with your CV and the names and email addresses of at least 2 references. ** Although all strong candidates will be thoroughly considered, Canadian applicants are strongly encouraged to apply **
