We are seeking a highly-motivated student to conduct research on invasion risk of non-native plants. The student will pursue a MS degree through either the Agronomy Department or the School of Natural Resources and Environment (SNRE) Interdisciplinary Ecology program at the University of Florida in Gainesville, FL starting Fall 2017 or Spring 2018.
The student will be co-advised by Dr. S. Luke Flory (florylab.com) and Dr. Deah Lieurance and will primarily work with Dr. Lieurance and the UF/IFAS Assessment of Non-native Plants in Florida’s Natural Areas (https://assessment.ifas.ufl.edu ), an internationally recognized invasion risk assessment program. Examples of previous research conducted through the UF/IFAS Assessment include evaluation of the invasion risk of clumping and running bamboo species (Lieurance et al., in review), predicted versus actual invasiveness of vine species in Florida (Gordon, Lieurance, & Flory, 2017), and the development of a list of low-risk biofuel species (Quinn, et al. 2015). We anticipate one part of the MS thesis to focus on use of the invasion risk assessment program and a second part to include observational or experimental field ecology.
Applicants should have a background in ecology, environmental science, conservation biology, risk analysis, or a related field, and an interest in the ecology and management of invasive species. Additionally, applicants with experience in database management, statistical modelling, and other computer skills are encouraged to apply. Responsibilities of the MS student will include completing graduate coursework, research related to the UF/IFAS Assessment objectives, publishing research findings, and participating in outreach activities, such as educational workshops, and involvement with invasive species related organizations (e.g. Florida Invasive Species Partnership).
The stipend for this assistantship is $21k/year and includes a full tuition waiver and access to health care benefits. Interested applicants should send a brief cover letter, including a statement of research interests, CV, contact information for 3 references, and copies of transcripts and GRE scores to Dr. Flory (flory@ufl.edu).