The Meng Lab seeks to understand how global change affects terrestrial ecosystems. We ask fundamental questions: How do global change drivers—from rising temperatures to urban expansion and deforestation—affect ecosystem seasonality, function, and resilience?
Our research examines plant responses to climate variability and anthropogenic pressures, with a particular focus on vegetation dynamics, their environmental drivers, and their role in regulating climate and influencing human health and well-being. We combine satellite remote sensing, field and greenhouse experiments, Earth system modeling, and AI/ML approaches in environmental data science to reveal patterns and mechanisms across scales.
Students and postdocs in the Meng Lab gain experience at the interface of ecology, global change science, and human-environment research, working on projects that span from local urban ecosystems to global land–atmosphere interactions. Prospective students and postdocs are encouraged to:
1. Explore this site for more information about the group
2. Review recent publications listed under the Publications tab
3. Visit the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences admission website
Prospective students and postdocs should reach out to Dr. Meng to inquire about available opportunities.
Resources for Prospective Postdocs
Prospective postdocs are encouraged to contact Dr. Meng to discuss potential projects and funding opportunities. Candidates considering external fellowships may find the following especially relevant to our work:
NOAA Climate & Global Change Postdoctoral Fellowship
National Science Foundation Postdoctoral Research Fellowships in Biology (PRFB)
David H. Smith Postdoctoral Conservation Research Fellowship
To allow sufficient time for competitive applications, please reach out at least the summer before your intended start date. Inquiries at any stage, however, are always welcome.
Other resources:
Resources for Prospective Graduate Students
We will not recruit new graduate students for Fall 2026, but stay tuned for future updates.
Research topics for prospective Ph.D. students are open in the field of global change ecology, urban ecology, and tropical ecosystems and will be determined by Dr. Meng and the student. Our program is Ph.D.-focused; we do not offer stand-alone Master’s degrees.
Qualifications: strong quantitative programming skills and solid background in global change ecology, vegetation remote sensing, and land surface processes. Proficiency in spoken/written English.
Application: The Fall application deadline for the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (EES) program is January 1. Please visit the departmental webpage for admission requirements and application process. If you are interested in applying, please send me an email with your CV, research interests, and career goals.