Coral Reef and Molecular Ecology

Principal Investigator

Joshua D. Voss. Ph.D.
Associate Research Professor
772-242-2538
jvoss2@fau.edu

Publications | CV | Lab Website

Coral reef communities are not just exquisitely beautiful, they are extremely important both ecologically and economically. Highly productive and biodiverse coral reefs protect our coastlines from erosion, provide essential habitat, and are integral in global nutrient cycling. In addition, corals support a worldwide multi-billion dollar diving and tourism industry. However, the ecological and societal benefits imparted by these reefs are seriously threatened. Coral reefs are experiencing a recent period of severe decline due to emerging coral diseases, climate change, fisheries exploitation, and land-based sources of pollution.

The Coral Reef & Molecular Ecology Lab integrates experimental and field monitoring approaches with advanced molecular techniques to better understand and protect coral ecosystems. Our primary goals are to:

• Identify and characterize coral reef habitats and resources
• Explore biodiversity, symbioses, and ecological processes in corals
• Track and predict the impacts of coral stressors and management actions on reef ecosystems
• Evaluate evidence of horizontal and vertical connectivity among coral reef ecosystems
• Develop and test techniques to enhance coral resilience and recovery
• Train researchers and students in both field and molecular techniques for coral reef ecology
• Provide data, information, and expertise to improve management strategies for marine ecosystems

Provide data, information, and expertise to improve management strategies for marine ecosystems

To learn more about our lab and research, please visit our lab website.

Information for Prospective Students

We are always looking for intelligent and motivated graduate students to pursue challenging, fun, interesting, and impactful research in coral reef and molecular ecology. Please contact Dr. Voss with your CV and concise summaries of your experience, academic preparation, research interests, GPA, GRE scores, and career goals. Students with molecular experience and a strong diving background are particularly encouraged to apply. For more information on the Graduate Programs at FAU including admission requirements and funding opportunities see the Graduate School, Master's and PhD programs in Biology, and the Masters's program in Marine Science and Oceanography. 

Additionally, the Harbor Branch Summer Internship Program provides 10-week paid internship opportunities that include immersive and independent marine science research alongside faculty at the Harbor Branch campus. Our lab typically hosts 1 or 2 undergraduate interns each summer.