Schatz Center for Tree Molecular Genetics
The Louis W. Schatz Center for Tree Molecular Genetics at Penn State engages in Conservation Genetics, Genomics and Biotechnology research and training focused on species restoration and forest ecosystem sustainability. The Schatz Center endowments established through the generosity and foresight of Dr. L. W. Schatz support post-doctoral fellows, visiting scholars, undergraduate, and graduate students, a biennial colloquium on tree genetics topics, infrastructure, and a wide array of research initiatives.
Latest News
May 1, 2023
Research Spotlight: Arbor Day, Penn State Research in Tree Molecular Genetics
Trees play an integral part in ecosystem health and the sequestration of carbon. Even as sources of food, life, and homes for many people and organisms, deforestation continues to threaten tree populations. Arbor Day is a time when communities can come together to preserve and celebrate this resource. At Penn State, there are multiple research groups dedicated to researching trees for the purpose of conservation and learning about how trees interact with their ecosystems. One such group within the Schatz Center for Tree Molecular Genetics, is focused on the preservation of the Black Ash Tree from the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB). The Emerald Ash Borer (or EAB) is an invasive species of beetle in the United States that is dangerous to Ash trees all over North America. Postdoctoral researcher, Dr. Melissa Lehrer and Ph.D student, Kyra LoPiccolo are both working on projects surrounding the conservation of Ash trees and the effects of the EAB here at Penn State.
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July 21, 2022
Torrey pine genetic research benefits efforts to save trees
A new genomic study of one of the rarest pine tree in the world, the Torrey pine, aimed at bolstering the case for a genetic rescue of the species barely surviving in the western U.S., revealed the complexity and risk associated with the endeavor.
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February 16, 2022
Geneticists studying how plants adapt to climate change
Combining results from huge “common garden” experiments with genomic sequencing Penn State molecular geneticist Jill Hamilton aims to tease apart the genetic basis for climate adaptation
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August 18, 2021
New Schatz Center Director Arrives
The Schatz Center and Department of Ecosystem Science and Management welcome the new Director of the Schatz Center Dr. Jill Hamilton. Dr. Hamilton's areas of expertise include Population Genomics, Conservation Genetics, Molecular Ecology, Evolution, Quantitative Genetics, Climate Change and Ex Situ Conservation.
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Contact Us
- Associate Professor & Director, Schatz Center for Tree Molecular Genetics
- Email jvh6349@psu.edu
