We are seeking a Master’s student for a 30, 45, or 60 credit thesis opportunity starting Spring / Summer 2026 to explore the relationship between pollinator visitation, seed set, and seed viability. Work schedule is flexible and will involve seed counting and the possibility to conduct germination tests
Background:
While there is good understanding of the negative consequences of pollinator declines for crops, we know very little about the effects on wild plant communities. Wild plant communities are thought to be more resilient to changes in pollinator assemblages than crops because they contain different traits and variation in their responses to fluctuation. Such variation arises from the differential dependence of plant species to rely on pollinators for reproduction. However, it is predicted yet barely known whether these differences on pollinator dependence can maintain overall plant diversity but significantly shift plant composition.
Project description:
To address this gap, we have already manipulated pollinator visitation to three wild plant species of varying pollinator dependence (low, medium and obligate insect pollinated). A subset of these pollinators has been sampled for pollen which has been identified using machine learning techniques. In addition, we have sampled seeds from all three wild plant species to determine if pollination success is related to visitation and / or body pollen.
The student will contribute to the project by counting and measuring seeds utilizing automated software, and possibly conducting germination tests on a subset of seeds for additional credits.
Using these data, the student will determine how pollen limitation, or variation expected in climate or land use scenarios, determines pollination services. Working on this project will help develop laboratory and data collection skills, as well as experience with analytical tools and scientific writing.
Are you interested?
If you would like to know more about this position and working with insect pollinators, please contact Arrian Karbassioon (arrian.karbassioon@mgeo.lu.se) and Richard Walters (richard.walters@mgeo.lu.se) for more information.