Selby Gardens has welcomed its newest professional botanist this month, Dr. Sally Chambers, expanding the institution’s study of the fern plant group. Typically, orchids and bromeliads are the stars of the Gardens’ research focus, but, with the addition of Chambers, the ferns, with approximately 30% of species being epiphytic, will receive increased attention. Though Chambers’ research work will apply to all of the plants Selby Gardens studies, not just ferns. Chambers most recently held the position of postdoctoral researcher at the University of Florida. She holds a PhD in plant ecology and evolutionary biology from Purdue University and completed her undergraduate work in natural resource and conservation management at the University of Kentucky. Chambers’ botanical garden experience includes an internship in the Horticulture Department at Missouri Botanical Garden.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens