This $280,634 federal Project Grant from the National Science Foundation's Mathematical and Physical Sciences (CFDA 47.049) program supports research at the University of Florida on how individual variation in species traits can influence ecosystem stability. The project aims to develop a theoretical framework for studying "trait-shift induced interaction modification" and its effects on ecological dynamics. Researchers will integrate mathematical modeling and empirical analysis to characterize different types of species interaction modifications driven by intraspecific trait variation. The work will train young researchers in interdisciplinary ecology and mathematics, as well as develop educational kits and programs to engage K-12 students, particularly underrepresented groups, in important ecological concepts. This 3-year award runs from May 2024 through April 2027 and does not involve any sub-awards.
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