PhD: Palaeoecology of leaf chemistry

Applications are invited for a funded 4-year PhD in Dr Karen Bacon’s Plant Ecology & Palaeoecology lab group in the School of Natural Sciences, NUI Galway. The project is part of a larger project focused on understanding plant extinction and leaf traits in both a modern and palaeobiological context. The successful candidate will investigate the effects of atmospheric composition and/or preservation environment on the preservation potential of different plant functional types in the fossil record. This may include determining the impacts of atmospheric composition and depositional environment on leaf chemistry and leaf traits. The project will be based in NUI Galway and involve travel to the University of Leeds and working with Dr Fiona Gill.
The PhD position is suitable for biology, botany, chemistry, Earth science, environmental science, physical geography, palaeontology, and plant science graduates with an interest in leaf traits, leaf chemistry and extinction.
The award includes:
• Fees for a PhD in Science are covered at the EU rate which is approximately €5,750 p.a. for up to four years. Non-EU fees are unfortunately not covered.
• Annual tax-free stipend: €18,000 per year for four years
• Start date: 1st September 2022 or as soon as possible thereafter.