🔬 Lab: Vahsen Lab, Odum School of Ecology @ University of Georgia
📅 Start Date: Fall 2026

🌍 Research Focus

The selected student will study:

• The role of rapid evolution in shaping ecosystem processes in coastal marsh sedges.
• Eco-evolutionary dynamics using field experiments and computational forecasting.
• Interactions between quantitative ecology, evolution, and coastal resilience.

🎯 Key Objectives:

• Investigate how evolutionary changes influence marsh ecosystem function.
• Combine field data, modeling, and statistical approaches to predict ecological outcomes.
• Explore coastal plant responses to environmental change.

✅ Preferred Qualifications

• Background in 🌱 ecology, evolutionary biology, statistics, or quantitative methods.
• Research experience with plants and/or coding in R (preferred but not required).
• Strong 📊 analytical skills and interest in interdisciplinary approaches.

📋 Expectations

• Conduct rigorous research with potential for 📜 peer-reviewed publications.
• Collaborate within a dynamic lab group focused on eco-evolutionary processes.
• Present findings at 🎤 scientific conferences and contribute to lab projects.

💰 Funding & Support

• Competitive stipend (~$35K/year) including 🎓 full tuition coverage + benefits.
• Funding through research/teaching assistantships (details negotiable).

📩 Application Process

Submit to Dr. Megan Vahsen (megan.vahsen@uga.edu) with subject line:
“Graduate Position – [Your Name] – [MS/PhD Interest]”
Include:

• 📝 Email statement (interest & qualifications).
• 📄 CV/Resume.
• 📌 Two professional/academic references.

⏳ Review begins immediately (priority before September 1, 2025).

📍 Location & Lab Culture

• University of Georgia (Athens, GA): A vibrant college town with cultural amenities and access to coastal field sites.
• The Vahsen Lab values 🤝 collaboration, curiosity, and inclusive science.

Encouraged to Apply: Students from diverse backgrounds. Questions? Email Dr. Vahsen!