We are seeking Master of Science students with interest in ecology and historical ecology of freshwater ecosystems for research in our laboratory at the University of South Florida St. Petersburg. Students would be enrolled in a thesis-based Master’s program in Conservation Biology. Our research examines biological and chemical evidence in lake sediment cores to reconstruct historical changes in lakes, watersheds, and wetlands. Findings have relevance to management, restoration, and conservation programs. Our research requires knowledge of modern freshwater ecology, and genuine interest in examining evidence in the historical context. We particularly seek students who have interest in aquatic and wetland plants, who would participate in historic analyses involving pollen, plant macrofossils, phytoliths, diatoms, algae, etc. The investigators have more than 30 years of experience in freshwater historical ecology. Florida has 8000 lakes that offer diverse research opportunities. Interested applicants should have a B.S. in a biological discipline, ecology coursework, and preferably some coursework in freshwater ecosystems and non-agricultural plants. Our program is small, selective, and M.S. students would be eligible for teaching assistantships that provide health insurance and some tuition waivers. The M.S. program application deadline is June 1, but those with interest in conducting thesis research in our lab should contact us well in advance to discuss their interests. We request serious inquiries only to:
Dr. Thomas J. Whitmore - whitm...@usfsp.edu Dr. Melanie Riedinger-Whitmore – marie...@usfsp.edu
