Untangling the diversity and evolution of hairsedges (Bulbostylis, Cyperaceae) in Africa

This project addresses a number of identified critical skills gaps, including: (1) Taxonomy & Systematics - the PhD student will develop a range of skills in these disciplines through training from the lead supervisor and through application of these skills to the plant family Cyperaceae.

The project will also develop the student's ability to apply systematics research to our understanding of ecological and evolutionary processes; (2) Field Science - this project has a field component, with a range of field observation and sampling techniques including sampling for herbarium vouchers, phylogenomic and (micro)morphological study; (3) Data Management - skills will be developed in manipulation of large datasets, notably genomic level data management and bioinformatics, as well as accumulation and management of datasets; (4) Multi-disciplinarity - phylogenomic, morphological and occurrence/ecological data will be applied together to gain understanding of the diversity, evolution and conservation of hairsedges; (5) Translating Research - the PhD student will be encouraged to use a range of science communications means to disseminate their findings including formal presentations, Kew Science blogs and social media feeds.