Plant Ecology
Our research spans plant community and ecosystem ecology, often focusing on relationships between biodiversity and ecosystem function, in alpine, forest, grassland and wetland ecosystems. Particular strengths include measurements of ecosystem carbon flux and soil microbial biomass.
Plant-soil systems sustain life on terrestrial Earth. Soils are the planet’s largest reservoir of biodiversity, underpinning species interactions that drive ecosystem function and nature’s benefits to people. Under accelerating pressures from land use and climate change, these systems both respond and feedback to global climate.
Our goal is to understand how species interactions shape ecosystem trajectories and stable states, enabling society to address critical questions:
1) What species can and will thrive under increased anthropogenic pressures?
2) How should we target our efforts to best save species and restore ecosystems?
3) How can we design ecosystems that honour our bicultural and biological heritage while operating within planetary boundaries?
Prospective Students
I am actively recruiting students at all levels of study. Student projects will involve fieldwork and/or glasshouse experiments and may include molecular biology, biochemical work and modelling. Students with relevant research interests are encouraged to contact me by email or to drop by my office.
Contact
Associate Professor
School of Biological Sciences