Plant Ecology & Global Change

Dr. Beth Lawrence is seeking a motivated PhD student to join her lab group at the University of Connecticut and an interdisciplinary research team starting January 2026. This fully funded PhD opportunity (~$40,000/year for four years) will focus on understanding how global change drivers—such as elevated CO₂, temperature shifts, nitrogen deposition, water availability, and fire—impact reproduction in boreal conifer species. Dr. Lawrence is committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable research environment and strongly encourages applications from students of diverse backgrounds.

The successful candidate will:

• Conduct fieldwork in northern New England and Quebec

• Analyze C:N:P:K stoichiometry and stable isotope signatures from herbarium and field-collected samples

• Perform seed germination trials

• Mentor students in a summer youth science immersion program in Alaska

Preferred Qualifications:

• M.S. in plant ecology, environmental science, or a related field

• Experience with fieldwork and biogeochemistry

• Strong oral and written communication skills

• A passion for inclusive, interdisciplinary science

Location: University of Connecticut, USA

Deadline: 15 October 2025

Interested candidates should email Dr. Beth Lawrence at [email protected], including:

1. A statement of research interests

2. A CV with relevant experience and contact information for three references

More about the lab: https://lawrencelabuconn.weebly.com/