The terHorst Lab is recruiting 1-2 students to the Masters program at California State University, Northridge for Fall 2013. Research in my lab generally focuses on community ecology and the factors that allow species to coexist. In particular, I am interested in how rapid evolution on contemporary time scales alters the outcome of species interactions and affects coexistence and genetic diversity in communities. My research combines theoretical and experimental approaches that bridge the gap between evolutionary biology and community ecology. More information is available at http://www.msu.edu/~terhors3
I have used several systems to explore these questions, including interactions between invasive and native species in California grasslands, natural microcosm communities inside carnivorous pitcher plants, symbioses between corals and algal symbionts, and communities of epifaunal marine invertebrates. Students are welcome to work in any of these systems, but are also encouraged to develop work in other appropriate field or laboratory systems. Projects that include a theoretical component are encouraged, so programming skills are useful, but are not required. Some examples of potential Masters student projects are: (a) genetic variation in invasive ability and selection on traits during invasion, (b) the effect of gene flow on local adaptation in natural microcosm communities, (c) contemporary evolutionary responses to global change. Northridge is located in the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles and provides access to many different natural habitats. The location is within a short commute of West LA, Santa Monica, Hollywood, or most locations in the Valley. The Biology program at CSUN has a reputation of turning out excellent Masters students who often continue on to top-tier Ph.D. programs. More information about the Biology program is available at http://www.csun.edu/biology Interested candidates should send email inquiries to casey.terho...@kbs.msu.edu describing their career goals and previous research experience. Include a CV/resume, if appropriate. You should also give a sense of your research interests, but these need not be specific plans, as students will be encouraged to develop their own independent projects during their first year. Underrepresented groups in ecology are especially encouraged to apply. Applications to CSUN are due by March 15, but potential applicants should contact me well before then to determine whether or not you should apply. Interested applicants can also meet with me at the Benthic Ecology Meeting in Savannah, GA from 3/20-3/24. Casey terHorst Current position: Kellogg Biological Station, Michigan State University Fall 2013: Assistant Professor, California State University, Northridge
