Research Focus
Dr. Jyotsna Sharma’s research focus is on the ecology and conservation of rare plants, especially those of the Orchidaceae. Both molecular and field methods are used to investigate pertinent questions. Current projects range from orchid ecology investigations in Texas and California to mycorrhizal ecology of orchids and of the genus Dirca in the U.S. and Mexico.
Importance of Graduate Students
Graduate student training is an important component of an academic research program. Dr. Sharma believes that Ph.D. students should be encouraged to take the creative and experimental lead while receiving constructive guidance from their advisors. Graduate education is an opportunity for a student to ‘conduct and communicate meaningful research in a supervised environment while s/he develops independent thinking skills.’
Future Research
‘On a global scale, we are losing biodiversity. Orchidaceae is one of the largest plant families with an estimated 30,000 species, a majority of which are considered rare. A chance to contribute to their scientific study and conservation is satisfying,’ Dr. Sharma says. Future research will focus on ‘conservation ecology of orchids, and on diversity and function of symbiotic microbes associated with plants in the Orchidaceae and with rare plants in other families.’ Dr. Sharma believes that collaborative research, training of undergraduate and graduate students, and publishing scientific findings are basic to a research program.
Jyotsna Sharma, Assistant Professor of Environmental Horticulture (Plant Ecology and Conservation).
Texas Tech University,
Department of Plant and Soil Science,
Campus Box 42122, Lubbock, TX 79409 
806. 742-2838 