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The following topics for master thesis are available
The following topics for master thesis are available
(click on the links to download information)
Effect of Soil Microclimate and Microorganism Abundance on Decomposition Service
Effect of Soil Microclimate and Microorganism Abundance on Decomposition Service
This research will investigate how variations in soil microclimate and the abundance of soil microorganisms affect organic matter decomposition and nutrient cycling in semi-natural ecosystems like Montado. It explores the role of microclimatic factors, such as Potential Solar Radiation (PSR), in differentiating soil microhabitats and influencing decomposition rates. Additionally, the study examines the impacts of climate change on these processes and the importance of microorganism abundance for efficient nutrient cycling and soil quality. Through experiments and soil analyses, the research aims to understand these complex relationships for better land management and conservation strategies.
Download proposal here.
Characterizing functional diversity patterns of herbaceous plant communities in response to contrasting microclimate in oak woodlands
Characterizing functional diversity patterns of herbaceous plant communities in response to contrasting microclimate in oak woodlands
Potential solar exposure resulting from local topography largely shapes microclimate, exerting an important effect on natural regeneration and vegetation characteristics, particularly in water-limited environments. The objective of this work is to characterize the functional patterns of response of the montado herbaceous plant community to contrasting solar exposition. To this end, the herbaceous plant community will be characterized using the point intercept method and key functional traits will be measured in the dominant species. Functional traits will include life form (i.e., grasses/forbs), growth form, N-fixing ability, life cycle, and dispersal syndrome. Based on the data collected, intra and interspecific functional diversity will be analysed in situations of contrasting potential solar radiation, using appropriate statistical tools. The results will contribute to understanding the pattern of community response to contrasting microclimate conditions, to better inform management and restoration strategies for these ecosystems.
Download proposal here.
Characterizing functional diversity patterns of woody plant communities in response to contrasting microclimate in oak woodlands
Characterizing functional diversity patterns of woody plant communities in response to contrasting microclimate in oak woodlands
Potential solar exposure resulting from local topography largely shapes microclimate, exerting an important effect on natural regeneration and vegetation characteristics, particularly in water-limited environments. The objective of this work is to characterize the functional patterns of response of the montado shrub plant community to contrasting solar exposition. To this end, the shrub plant community will be characterized using the line intercept method and key functional traits will be measured in the dominant species. Functional traits will include maximum height, leaf characteristics (e.g., specific leaf area), and physiological attributes. Based on the data collected, intra and interspecific functional diversity will be analysed in situations of contrasting potential solar radiation, using appropriate statistical tools. The results will contribute to understanding the pattern of community response to contrasting microclimate conditions, to better inform management and restoration strategies for these ecosystems.
Download proposal here.
Do small-scale changes in habitat affect spider communities?
Do small-scale changes in habitat affect spider communities?
The objective of this research is to study the taxonomic and functional diversity patterns of spiders and relate them to various small-scale biotic and abiotic factors. The fieldwork, to be conducted by a team of arachnologists, will involve sampling 18 plots using trapping and active sampling methods, with habitat characterization and data collection on vegetation structure and GIS-derived variables. Lab work will include sorting, identifying, and quantifying spider material, with a focus on around 100 species present in study area. Statistical analyses will use hill numbers for taxonomic diversity, functional tree representation for functional diversity, and variation partitioning to understand diversity drivers. The research aims to contribute to publications on diversity patterns.
Download proposal here.
For students: contact the researchers to demonstrate your interest, or send an email to Fernando Ascensão (fjascensao@edu.ulisboa.pt).
For teachers and researchers: if you wish to suggest a master topic, please fill this template and send the file to Fernando Ascensão (fjascensao@edu.ulisboa.pt).
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