Reconstructing early terrestrial ecosystems: a case study on exceptionally preserved biotas from the Lower Devonian deposits of New Brunswick, Canada
Supervisors: Prof Charles Wellman (University of Sheffield, UK) & Prof Patricia Gensel (University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, USA)
Key words: Palaeontology; Palaeobotany; Palynology
Description of project
One of the most important localities for the study of early terrestrial ecosystems is the Lower Devonian terrestrial deposits of New Brunswick, eastern Canada. These deposits have been studied for over half a century and yield exquisitely preserved plants, arthropods and fish, including lagerstatte with plants exceptionally preserved by ash falls. Unfortunately, however, the dispersed spore assemblages from these deposits have never been described, despite preliminary studies proving that they contain abundant, diverse and exquisitely preserved spores. This gap in knowledge has hindered interpretation of these important non-marine biotas. The aim of this project is to undertake the first detailed study of the dispersed spore assemblages from these deposits. They will be used to: (i) provide a secure biostratigraphical framework for analysis of the biotas (complementing a recent detailed sedimentological study); (ii) analyse the palaeoecology of the floras by integrating quantitative analysis of the dispersed spores with knowledge of their parent plants (gleaned through studies of in situ spores) biology and ecology. The student will be provided with a rounded training in the techniques of Devonian palynology, palaeobotany and terrestrial ecosystem reconstruction, bedded within a solid stratigraphical/sedimentological framework. This will prepare him/her for a career in academia or industry (e.g. exploration palynologist). The project will be based in Sheffield under the supervision of CW but with input from PG (particularly during fieldwork in New Brunswick, eastern Canada).
To apply, please complete an online application form which can be found at www.shef.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/apply/applying
The closing date is 15th January 2013