Environmental Horticulture Graduate Program
Amber Gardner / PhD Student
I graduated from UF with a Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation in 2008. Soon after, I gained employment with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Upland Habitat Research and Monitoring Program where I worked for nearly seven years. During this time, I developed a passion for plant conservation, so I returned to UF and completed my Master of Science degree in Environmental Horticulture in 2017. During that time, I investigated the seed biology of Harperocallis flava, a federally endangered species. I am now beginning a Ph.D. program where I will continue my research with H. flava. My research interests are centered around using seed biology and micropropagation for native plant conservation and restoration.
Adviser: Dr. Hector Perez
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EDUCATION
- University of Florida B.S. Wildlife Ecology and Conservation 2008
- University of Florida M.S. Horticultural Sciences- Environmental Horticulture 2017
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RECENT SERVICES AND HONORS
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Graduate School Funding Award 2017-2021
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William C. and Bertha M. Cornett Fellowship 2017-2018
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Graduated Summa cum laude, UF 2008
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University Scholars Award Recipient, UF 2007
- Treasurer, UF Student Chapter of The Wildlife Society, 2007-2008
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RESEARCH
My current research focuses on the seed biology and germination ecology of Harperocallis flava, a federally endangered species that is endemic to the central panhandle of Florida. By employing both lab and field based approaches, I will investigate embryo development, germination timing, seed persistence in the soil, and the use of micropropagation in the conservation of this rare species.
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TEACHING
Assisted in the development of the Seed Biology course HOS 6932
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PUBLICATIONS
- Gardner, A.G., and K.A. Williges. 2015. Praxelis clematidea (Asteraceae): A New Plant Invader of Florida. Southeastern Naturalist. 14(1):N21-N27.
- Freeman, J.E., K. Williges, A.G. Gardner and E.H. Leone. In Press. Plant functional group composition on restored longleaf pine – wiregrass (Pinus palustris – Aristida stricta) savannas with a history of intensive agriculture. Natural Areas Journal.