Background
Warming temperatures and a reduction of sea-ice scour opens the Arctic intertidal as habitat for colonization by both seaweeds and marine invertebrates. Indeed, large increases in the biomass of seaweeds and invertebrates on Arctic coasts have already been documented in the past decades and are predicted to continue. To understand the ramifications of this widespread ecological change in the Arctic intertidal, we needs to examine species-specific responses and how these drive inter-species interactions and ecosystem dynamics.
Project description
In this project, the student will investigate how changes in sea-ice scour impact intertidal communities in Svalbard. In this project, the student will use laboratory techniques, including taxanomic and genetic methods, to assess abiotic forcing on: i) seaweed morphology ii) the colonization of the intertidal by seaweeds and invertebrates iii) the genetic constitution of intertidal invertebrate and seaweed populations. The student will have access to invertebrates, seaweed, and eDNA samples collected at six rocky beaches in Kongsfjorden, and genetic material from the museum collection.
Learning Outcomes
The student will develop both the critical thinking and practical skills necessary to becoming a well-rounded ecologist. In particular, the student will become proficient in taxonomic and eDNA metabarcoding laboratory techniques, data analysis, statistical methods, and scientific writing. In addition, the student will have access to museum materials and laboratory facilities. We offer a supportive learning environment, where the student will be part of a larger working group.
What we expect from you
Commitment and dedication
Supervision and teaching:
You will be supervised by Lauren Wiesebron and Torsten Struck (both UiO).
For further inquiries, please contact Lauren Wiesebron (lwiesebron@gmail.com)