A Hunter College graduate student has received a $37,423 National Science Foundation grant to complete her dissertation on endangered lemurs in Madagascar — which could help protect biodiversity across the globe.
Doctoral student Aparna Chandrashekar is completing the study under the supervision of Associate Professor Andrea L. Baden, director of Hunter’s Primate Molecular Ecology Laboratory and the Ranomafana Ruffed Lemur Project.
“I’m thrilled to have the importance of my research recognized by the National Science Foundation and thank them for the grant,” Chandrashekar said.
The study and grant underscore Hunter’s commitment as an anchor institution to providing young talent with high-impact, world-changing opportunities for research in the sciences and to advance the public good by promoting scientific breakthroughs.
The research, which is the result of ongoing collaboration among Hunter’s Primate Molecular Ecology Lab and several national and international nonprofit organizations, including the University of Florida (Dr. Kim Valenta & Mrs. Caitlynn Fila), The Dr. Abigail Ross Foundation for Applied Conservation (Dr. Abigail Ross), and the University of Antananarivo, will allow researchers to save endangered species from extinction by studying their genetic diversity and connectivity throughout Madagascar’s eastern rainforests, and using results to guide reforestation efforts.
Chandrashekar’s dissertation is important because habitat loss and fragmentation are rapidly transforming landscapes around the world, threatening the survival of countless species by disrupting their ability to move, reproduce, and maintain healthy populations. Madagascar’s eastern rainforest, home to some of the world’s most unique biodiversity, has experienced much deforestation, leaving species in fragmented patches across their range.
The study focuses on understanding how different species of lemurs respond to the changing environment. By identifying the species-specific traits and landscape features that help or hinder their movement and reproduction across groups, the study aims to inform conservation efforts, such as reforestation and habitat-corridor design, that support the persistence of Madagascar’s remarkable wildlife.
The project highlights the importance of tailoring conservation strategies to meet the diverse needs of species in fragmented ecosystems, providing a model for protecting biodiversity globally.
