Jyotsna Sharma

Dr. Jyotsna Sharma is a Professor of Plant Ecology & Conservation in the Department of Plant and Soil Science at Texas Tech University's Davis College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. She directs the Sharma Laboratory, which investigates biotic-abiotic interactions in plant communities through NSF, DoD, and IUCN-funded research. Her work bridges basic ecology and applied conservation in epiphytic and terrestrial systems.

Education:

• B.S. Horticulture and Business (Summa Cum Laude) - University of Arkansas, Fayetteville
• Graduate Research in Plant Ecology - University of Missouri, Columbia
• Postdoctoral Research Associate - Iowa State University

Research Focus: Dr. Sharma's lab examines spatial-temporal dynamics of angiosperm populations, specializing in orchid ecology, mycorrhizal networks, and conservation genetics. Key areas include:

• Orchid-fungal symbiosis and microbiome interactions
• Population responses to habitat fragmentation
• Endophytic microbial communities in rare plants
• Restoration ecology during the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

Teaching: Develops graduate courses including:

• PSS 6000: Research Methods in Plant Science
• PSS 6001/PSS 6315: Mycorrhizal Symbiosis

Emphasizes critical thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Professional Engagement: Active member of IUCN Orchid Specialist Group, Botanical Society of America, Ecological Society of America, Native Orchid Conference, and North American Orchid Conservation Center.