Investigating the lichen symbiosis via stable isotopes and confocal microscopy
Klara Scharnagl, Curator
University and Jepson Herbaria
Closed. This professor is continuing with Fall 2024 apprentices on this project; no new apprentices needed for Spring 2025.
We are using a combination of microscopy and stable isotope (carbon and nitrogen) analyses to better understand the intimacy of the relationship between the filamentous fungal partner and the photosynthetic (green algae or cyanobacteria) partner within the lichen symbiosis, and how this will impact their ability to respond to global climate change.
Role: Students will either assist in extractions and measurements in the stable isotope lab on campus, or will assist in sectioning and imaging using a confocal microscope. All necessary training will be provided. All students will have the opportunity to join in field collections of the lichens being studied, and training in keying out (identifying) lichens using morphological characters.
Qualifications: Prior experience in lab work and field work is desirable but not essential.
Day-to-day supervisor for this project: Inga Conti-Jerpe, Post-Doc
Hours: 3-5 hrs