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

September 6, 2026

Adaptation and a 'Noah's Ark for Trees' Offer Hope for Endangered Black Ash

Excited to share a new paper from PhD Candidate, Kyra LoPiccolo published recently in Annals of Botany using ex situ collections to examine seed morphology and early-growth phenotypes for black ash populations sourced from across the species' range. This work represents a wonderful cross-border collaboration that is laying the foundations for ash restoration and represents a critical resource to disentangle the important role of genetics, environment and their interactions to ash health and persistence. Stay tuned for more from this project as we are only at the beginning of this exciting work!

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December 21, 2025

Genetic Teamwork may be Key to Climate-Resilient Trees

New study suggests that following hybridization, when plant genomes work together, trees perform better under climate stress

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July 28, 2025

Huck Students Impress at Forest Genetics Conference

Penn State graduate students took the Forest Genetics 2025 conference by storm, winning more than half of the poster and presentation awards available. Three Huck trainees were among those recognized.

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July 8, 2025

National Forest Genetics Groups Meet at Penn State for Bi-annual Conference

Leading North American forest genetics researchers, professionals, and students joined together at Penn State for Forest Genetics 2025, where they shared ideas and made connections to enhance research dedicated to preserving forests.

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