Updated – Women in Science in the Plant Physiology Lab of the Estonian University of Life Sciences

Text by Kristiina Mark

Plant Physiology Lab at our university hosts many inspiring and dedicated female researchers working in the field of plant sciences. Here we cheer on our feminine brain power, that currently includes researchers and associated professors Dr. Astrid Kännaste, Dr. Assoc. Prof. Eve Runno-Paurson, Dr. Inga Jüriado, Dr. Kaia Kask, Dr. Kristiina Mark, Dr. Assoc. Prof. Tiina Tosens, Dr. Triinu Remmel and junior researchers Congmiao Xie, Helina Nassar, Jesamine Jöneva Rikisahedew, Upasana Sharma, Vivian Kuusk and support stuff MSc. Evi Vaino, MSc. Piret Pärlist, MSc. Mari Tobias, MSc. Tiia Kurvits.

To emphasize the capacity of our collegium, lets run some simple statistics.

• This group of colleagues includes project managers, lecturers/teaching professors, research project leaders, lab managers, technicians/assistants, supervisors, PhD students.
• They have technical and scientific capacity in wide range of plant science fields, such as plant anatomy, plant stress, biogenic volatile organic compound (VOC) measurements, measurements of gas-exchange and photosynthetic parameters, plant pathogen research, lichenology, symbiosis biology, plant-insect interactions, implementation of novel agricultural crops, plant biochemistry, etc.
• As combined, they have research work experience and competence from working in at least 9 different countries (Australia, China, Estonia, Finland, India, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, USA).
• Among our women scientists are principal investigators of 5 currently running funded research projects, while many are also participating as senior research stuff in 5 currently funded research projects. In their total career they have carried out (at least) 63 funded research projects (out of which 17 as the principal investigators).
• In total we have dedicated 179 years to work in science (calculated as sum of years starting from PhD studies) and have published at least 173 research articles (indexed as 1.1., as indicated in the Estonian Science Info System, by 07.02.2024).

But what inspires the women in our Plant Physiology Lab?

“I am currently conducting research in the field of plant ecophysiology where I am hoping to draw links between anatomy and physiology. Being at the forefront of research allows me to grow by being challenged daily, and I am inspired by other successful women who have found their voices in science. My favourite part of what I do is getting to conduct experiments in the lab.”

-Jesamine Rikisahedew, PhD student and junior researcher

“Research fields are plant physiology and ecophysiology. I am interested in the inner workings of the cornerstone process of life on Earth, photosynthesis, and how it has adapted to various environments, as well as how to improve it for the sake of climate-resilient crops.”

– Dr. Tiina Tosens, Associate professor

„Olen põllumajandusteadlane, kes huvitub põllukultuuridest ja nende tervisest ning seda juba ligi 23 aastat. Liigun põllul ja laboris. Viimastel aastatel on lisandunud Eestis uute põllukultuuride kasvatamise uurimine ja populariseerimine. Eriline armastus on kartuli ja bataadi vastu.“

– Dr. Eve Runno-Paurson, Associate professor

“I work on the symbiotic interactions of lichen, and the diversity and evolution of lichen secondary metabolites for my thesis. The beauty and diversity of lichen is brightly shining in my world all the time when I came across lichen during my master study.“

– Congmiao Xie, PhD student and junior researcher

“I conduct research mostly on cryptogam biology, ecophysiology and ecology. This includes mosses, lichens and algae. Many things about these organism groups are still unknown, and it is absolutely fascinating to study the physiology (aka “behaviour”) of someone you might consider as an alien (and it’s not a joke – some of them easily survive outer space and Mars conditions!). My work is my inspiration, the daily challenges and thrilling discoveries, but I also highly appreciate inspiring interactions with students, their personal, academic and scientific growth, and thriving collaboration with colleagues.”

– Dr. Kristiina Mark, researcher

“My research field is plant stress and volatiles. My inspiration is constant stress :D”

– Dr. Kaia Kask, researcher

“Olen nooremteadur ja aednik. Mulle meeldivad taimed ja nende heaolu eest hoolt kanda nii tubastes tingimustes kui põllul. Teaduses huvitab kartul ja tema kahjustajad.“

– Helina Nassar, PhD student and junior researcher

“My field of research is rooted in ecophysiological and anatomical studies of cryptogams; mostly lichens and mosses, where I aim to determine how these organisms acclimate to changes in various environmental conditions. My research consists of fieldwork and lab work, where I get to experience a balance of both worlds. I greatly enjoy visiting the natural habitats (forests and natural parks) of the organisms I study where I can tune in to nature. My inspiration is my idols in the research field, and every woman who adds value to their fields of science, which pushes me to be motivated and upscale my skills in research as well as in life.”

-Upasana Sharma, PhD student and junior researcher

Women in Science in the Plant Physiology Lab of the Estonian University of Life Sciences

Text by Kristiina Mark

Plant Physiology Lab at our university hosts many inspiring and dedicated female researchers working in the field of plant sciences. Here we cheer on our feminine brain power, that currently includes researchers and associated professors Dr. Astrid Kännaste, Dr. Assoc. Prof. Eve Runno-Paurson, Dr. Inga Jüriado, Dr. Kaia Kask, Dr. Kristiina Mark, Dr. Assoc. Prof. Tiina Tosens, Dr. Triinu Remmel and junior researchers Congmiao Xie, Helina Nassar, Jesamine Jöneva Rikisahedew, Upasana Sharma, Vivian Kuusk and support stuff MSc. Evi Vaino, MSc. Piret Pärlist, MSc. Tiia Kurvits.

To emphasize the capacity of our collegium, lets run some simple statistics.

• This group of colleagues includes project managers, lecturers/teaching professors, research project leaders, lab managers, technicians/assistants, supervisors, PhD students.
• They have technical and scientific capacity in wide range of plant science fields, such as plant anatomy, plant stress, biogenic volatile organic compound (VOC) measurements, measurements of gas-exchange and photosynthetic parameters, plant pathogen research, lichenology, symbiosis biology, plant-insect interactions, implementation of novel agricultural crops, plant biochemistry, etc.
• As combined, they have research work experience and competence from working in at least 9 different countries (Australia, China, Estonia, Finland, India, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, USA).
• Among our women scientists are principal investigators of 5 currently running funded research projects, while many are also participating as senior research stuff in 5 currently funded research projects. In their total career they have carried out (at least) 63 funded research projects (out of which 17 as the principal investigators).
• In total we have dedicated 179 years to work in science (calculated as sum of years starting from PhD studies) and have published at least 173 research articles (indexed as 1.1., as indicated in the Estonian Science Info System, by 07.02.2024).

But what inspires the women in our Plant Physiology Lab?

“I am currently conducting research in the field of plant ecophysiology where I am hoping to draw links between anatomy and physiology. Being at the forefront of research allows me to grow by being challenged daily, and I am inspired by other successful women who have found their voices in science. My favourite part of what I do is getting to conduct experiments in the lab.”

-Jesamine Rikisahedew, PhD student and junior researcher

“Research fields are plant physiology and ecophysiology. I am interested in the inner workings of the cornerstone process of life on Earth, photosynthesis, and how it has adapted to various environments, as well as how to improve it for the sake of climate-resilient crops.”

– Dr. Tiina Tosens, Associate professor

„Olen põllumajandusteadlane, kes huvitub põllukultuuridest ja nende tervisest ning seda juba ligi 23 aastat. Liigun põllul ja laboris. Viimastel aastatel on lisandunud Eestis uute põllukultuuride kasvatamise uurimine ja populariseerimine. Eriline armastus on kartuli ja bataadi vastu.“

– Dr. Eve Runno-Paurson, Associate professor

“I work on the symbiotic interactions of lichen, and the diversity and evolution of lichen secondary metabolites for my thesis. The beauty and diversity of lichen is brightly shining in my world all the time when I came across lichen during my master study.“

– Congmiao Xie, PhD student and junior researcher

“I conduct research mostly on cryptogam biology, ecophysiology and ecology. This includes mosses, lichens and algae. Many things about these organism groups are still unknown, and it is absolutely fascinating to study the physiology (aka “behaviour”) of someone you might consider as an alien (and it’s not a joke – some of them easily survive outer space and Mars conditions!). My work is my inspiration, the daily challenges and thrilling discoveries, but I also highly appreciate inspiring interactions with students, their personal, academic and scientific growth, and thriving collaboration with colleagues.”

– Dr. Kristiina Mark, researcher

“My research field is plant stress and volatiles. My inspiration is constant stress :D”

– Dr. Kaia Kask, researcher

“Olen nooremteadur ja aednik. Mulle meeldivad taimed ja nende heaolu eest hoolt kanda nii tubastes tingimustes kui põllul. Teaduses huvitab kartul ja tema kahjustajad.“

– Helina Nassar, PhD student and junior researcher

Results of our sweet potato field trial in a TV show

Text and photos created by Eve Runno-Paurson

Eve Runno-Paurson in ERR morning program Tervisioon on 16 October 2023

Our research team from Chair of Plant and Crop Science has conducted field trials on sweet potato in Eerika for six growing seasons (2018-2023). Assoc. Prof Eve Runno Paurson reported the results on a TV morning programme. https://etv.err.ee/1609123454/terevisioon, start at 1h 42 min

Research team in 2022

New member of our team

My name is Riccardo Scodeller and I am a new doctoral student under the co-supervision of Ass. Prof. Tiina Tosens and Prof. Ülo Niinemets. I come from the north-eastern region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, in Italy, where I completed my academic education in Natural Sciences and Global Change Ecology at the University of Trieste. My BSc’s and MSc’s thesis projects titles where “Multitemporal analysis of vegetation dynamics in terraced landscapes” and “Conservation education: evaluation of environmental education in a zoo”, respectively. After my graduation I did some fieldwork on the Red-billed chough conservation project at Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust (Jersey), and for the last two years I worked as a science teacher in a secondary school.

Here at the Estonian University of Life Sciences I will be working on the topic “Physiological and structural trade-offs underlying the global variation of mesophyll conductance”, where I will expand the existing database by gathering anatomical and physiological data from plant groups of interest in the efforts of determining which factors affect mesophyll conductance and photosynthesis in higher plants.

I am grateful for this opportunity to develop new skills in microscopy and physiological analysis, deepen my understanding of scientific methodology and network while meeting new and interesting people!

Exploring the Amazon: Fieldwork at the Uatumã Sustainable Development Reserve (ATTO), Manaus, Brazil

Text by Vinicius Fernandes de Souza

Tropical forests, like the mighty Amazon Rainforest, are the heavyweights in releasing of volatile organic compounds from vegetation, contributing around 80% of global BVOC emissions. The Amazon, with its incredible diversity of plant life, is the superstar of scent production.

So, join us on a journey into the heart of the Amazon as we explore how these natural fragrances shape our world and why they matter to us all.

Campaign period: From 21 Nov until 11 December 2022.

Author: Dr. Vinícius Fernandes de Souza. Researcher member of Professor Ülo Niinemets’ lab at the Estonian University of Life Sciences – Tartu, Estonia.

The trip was made possible thanks to the MOBILITAS+ project. Many thanks to the EU Regional Development Fund and the Estonian Research Agency for their support.

🌿🌍 #Nature #AmazonRainforest #FragranceScience

A rising star!

Text by Tiina Tosens

A rising star in the world of photosynthesis! Our student and excellent team member, August Luure, successfully defended his thesis in front of the Commission of Biochemistry and Biophysics at Tartu University. His supervisors, Associate Professors Tiina Tosens and Hanna Hõrak, along with Jesamaine, a PhD student, guided him throughout the process. Congratulations to August on this remarkable achievement, and we eagerly anticipate his future accomplishments.

August Luure and Tiina Tosens after defense.

Unveiling the Secrets of Welwitschia mirabilis: A Research Expedition in the Namib Desert

Text by Jesamine Rikisahedew

Introduction

Embarking on a research expedition to the Namib Desert alongside my two esteemed PhD supervisors, Tiina Tosens and Ülo Niinemets, was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me as a budding plant biologist. Our mission? To unravel the hidden secrets of Welwitschia mirabilis, a captivating desert plant renowned for its longevity and adaptability. Join me as I recount our enthralling journey of scientific discovery, studying the intricate anatomy and physiology of this extraordinary plant species.

Left to right: Jesamine Rikisahedew, Tiina Tosens, Paulina Fendinat, Ülo Niinemets, Theo Wassenaar standing in front of a Welwitschia mirabilis plant in the Husab Plain of the Namib Desert.

The iconic two leaves of Welwitschia mirabilis.

Probergrothius angolensis, also called ‘Welwitschia bug’, on the cones of a female Welwitschia plant.

Setting the Stage: Gobabeb Research Station

Our scientific adventure took us to Gobabeb Namib Research Institute, a renowned hub of desert research situated amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Namib Desert. We were lucky enough to be joined by our collaborators from the Namib University of Science and Technology, Associate Professor Theo Wassenaar and his PhD student, Paulina Fendinat. Surrounded by the expertise of my 4 cohorts and armed with state-of-the-art equipment, we set out to explore the mysteries concealed within the fascinating Welwitschia mirabilis.

Gobabeb Research and Training Facility

Associate Prof. Tiina Tosens and Prof. Ülo Niinemets enjoying the dunes in the Namib Desert.

Delving into the Leaf Anatomy

It is well-known that Welwitschia is unique in that they have two ever-growing leaves. This means that they are special in the way that they contend with water scarcity and thus carbon sequestration in their environment. With the guidance of my experienced supervisors, we embarked on an intricate dissection of Welwitschia mirabilis leaves to uncover its hidden anatomical wonders. Carefully examining the plant’s thick, leathery leaves, we revealed a fascinating network of vascular bundles that ensured efficient transportation of water and nutrients throughout the plant. Specialized cells and tissues, such as sclereids and stomata, caught our attention, providing unique adaptations for water retention and gas exchange in the arid desert environment. As we documented and analysed the intricate leaf structures, we marvelled at the plant’s resilience and its ability to thrive under extreme conditions. Our focus is to determine which factors affect the photosynthetic capacity of these plants, and so I sampled along the length of the leaves to see if there are differences due to age. The rest of the microscopical analyses are ongoing in our lab.

Cross-section of the thick, leathery leaves of Welwitschia mirabilis.

Jesamine in front of some particularly large Welwitschia plants.

Decoding the Leaf Physiology

Our journey into the physiology of Welwitschia mirabilis was equally captivating. Equipped with the Walz GFS-3000 gas exchange system, we delved into the plant’s physiological mechanisms, unravelling the strategies it employed to withstand the arid environment of the Namib Desert. Our team of collaborators informed us of the sunken pits housing the stomata that reduced water loss while allowing for efficient gas exchange. The presence of a waxy cuticle layer on the leaves acted as a protective barrier against desiccation, preserving precious moisture within the plant’s tissues. We looked at how the rate of photosynthesis was affected by changes to light, humidity, and carbon dioxide concentration. Witnessing the delicate balance between photosynthesis and water conservation within Welwitschia mirabilis deepened our understanding of how plants adapt to extreme conditions. In addition to the typical physiological measurements, we also collected biogenic organic volatile compounds to enrich our knowledge of how this plant operates in its environment.

Ülo, Paulina and Tiina collecting various data simultaneously.

Jesamine and Tiina collecting physiology data in the field using the Walz GFS-300 gas exchange machines.

Surviving the Desert Challenge

Welwitschia mirabilis has long been an emblem of survival in the Namib Desert. Together with my supervisors, we explored the plant’s extensive root system, which delves deep into the sandy soil, efficiently extracting even the most elusive traces of water. We marvelled at the plant’s remarkable ability to allocate resources, ensuring its longevity and survival in an environment where water is scarce and unpredictable. Witnessing first-hand how Welwitschia mirabilis thrived in the face of adversity inspired us to further investigate its remarkable adaptations and shed light on its evolutionary success.

Implications for Botanical Research

As researchers, our journey studying the anatomy and physiology of Welwitschia mirabilis holds significant implications for plant biology and ecological understanding. By unravelling the intricate mechanisms that allow this plant to overcome harsh desert conditions, we contribute to the broader knowledge of plant adaptations and resilience. The insights gained from studying Welwitschia mirabilis may prove invaluable in addressing global challenges such as water scarcity and climate change, where understanding how plants survive in extreme environments becomes increasingly important. Our expedition to study Welwitschia mirabilis in the Namib Desert also fostered a deep sense of responsibility for its conservation. With its unique adaptations and ecological significance, this botanical marvel deserves our protection. As researchers, we are committed to raising awareness about the importance of preserving Welwitschia mirabilis and its delicate desert ecosystem. Through our research and collaboration with organizations like Gobabeb and NUST, we strive to contribute to conservation efforts and ensure the long-term survival of this remarkable plant species for generations to come.

Jesamine collecting BVOCs from the leaves.

Researchers discussing the best plan for analyses.

Associate Profs. Theo Wassenaar (NUST) and Tiina Tosens (EMÜ) examining a Welwitschia mirabilis plant.

Conclusion: A Journey of Scientific Discovery

Our research expedition to the Namib Desert, studying the anatomy and physiology of Welwitschia mirabilis, was a truly transformative experience. Collaborating with my knowledgeable PhD supervisors, I was able to explore the intricate mechanisms that allow this plant to thrive in an unforgiving environment. Witnessing the resilience and adaptability of Welwitschia mirabilis left an indelible impression on me as a young plant biologist. As we concluded our expedition, I left with a profound appreciation for the intricate wonders of nature and a renewed dedication to uncovering the secrets of the botanical world.

Jesamine, Ülo and Tiina celebrating a successful trip to Gobabeb.

Star-gazing amongst the dunes in the Namib Desert.

Updated: four PhD positions in plant ecophysiology

Professor Ülo Niinemets and Associate Professor Tiina Tosens from the Estonian University of Life Sciences are currently seeking dedicated candidates to join our interdisciplinary team and do research on the following thesis topics:

1. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the global variability of photosynthesis by combining cutting-edge microscopy with physiological approaches. This research involves working with a large database and conducting fieldworks in unique ecosystems to uncover the mechanisms and trade-offs of photosynthesis adaptations.

2. Exploring the mechanisms of the natural variability of crop photosynthesis and resource use efficiencies by contributing in the ultimate goal of enhancing yields and transforming the futuure of agricultural productivity.

3. Investigating the emission of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) in response to plant biotic stress, with the overarching goal of understanding the global variability of BVOC emissioon patterns and its effect on vegetation and the climate.

4. Tree abiotic stress tolerance, size and longevity as key determinants of performance of forests under global change.

We offer a funded tuition-free study program that provides access to state-of-the-art facilities, fostering an environment of cutting-edge research within an inspiring team. As a Junior Researcher, you will embark on an exciting professional journey with a competitive monthly salary and fully covered social security. We locate in Tartu – a small and green lively university town.

To be eligible for the program, you must hold a Master’s degree in Biology or Life Sciences and have a solid foundation in the field of plant biology (preferably in plant ecophysiology).

We hope the candidates:

• to be in good terms with data analysis (also using R)
• fluency in spoken and written English is essentialenabling effective communication of your research.

For PhD candidates who have obtained a master’s degree or equivalent qualification outside Estonia the deadline for document submission is June 1st, 2023. Applications are submitted via the webpage: https://estonia.dreamapply.com/en_GB/

For PhD candidates who obtained a master’s degree or equivalent qualification in Estonia the deadline for document submission is June 15st, 2023. Applications are submitted via the webpage: www.sais.ee

For further information, advice and to express your interest, please feel free to contact Assoc. Prof. Tiina

Tosens (tiina.tosens@emu.ee) or Prof. Ülo Niinemets (ulo.niinemets@gmail.com).

—Spread the word and share this opportunity—

Three PhD positions in plant ecophysiology

Professor Ülo Niinemets and Associate Professor Tiina Tosens from the Estonian University of Life Sciences are currently seeking dedicated candidates to join our interdisciplinary team and do research on the following thesis topics:

1. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the global variability of photosynthesis by combining cutting-edge microscopy with physiological approaches. This research involves working with a large database and conducting fieldworks in unique ecosystems to uncover the mechanisms and trade-offs of photosynthesis adaptations.
2. Exploring the mechanisms of the natural variability of crop photosynthesis and resource use efficiencies by contributing in the ultimate goal of enhancing yields and transforming the futureof agricultural productivity.
3. Investigating the emission of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) in response to plantbiotic stress, with the overarching goal of understanding the global variability of BVOC emissionpatterns and its effect on vegetation and the climate.

We offer a funded tuition-free study program that provides access to state-of-the-art facilities, fostering an environment of cutting-edge research within an inspiring team. As a Junior Researcher, you will embark on an exciting professional journey with a competitive monthly salary and fully covered social security. The workplace is located in Tartu – a small and green lively university town.

To be eligible for the program, you must hold a Master’s degree in Biology or Life Sciences and have a solid foundation in the field of plant biology (preferably in plant ecophysiology).

We hope the candidates:

• to be in good terms with data analysis (also using R)
• fluency in spoken and written English is essential enabling effective communication of your research.

The deadline for document submissions is June 1st, 2023.

For further information, advice and to express your interest, please contact Assoc. Prof. Tiina Tosens (tiina.tosens@emu.ee) or Prof. Ülo Niinemets (ulo.niinemets@gmail.com)

—Spread the word and share this opportunity—

The EcolChange Centre of Excellence Final Conference 2022

Photo by Jaan Liira

The Centre of Excellence in Research EcolChange – Ecology of Global Change: Natural and Managed Ecosystems – has been in operation since 2016 and will end on 1 March 2023, so it is time to take stock of what the most outstanding results have been and which areas of research are promising for further development.

The final conference of the EcolChange Centre of Excellence will take place on 28 October 2022 at the Oecologicum (new ecology building), University of Tartu, Liivi Street 2, Tartu.

Registration is open until 15 October 2022 https://ecolchange.emu.ee/en/news-events/seminarid/final-conference-2022/

In the framework of the conference, we will present breakthrough research and trends for further development of the EcolChange research (6 research groups).

A separate session is dedicated to doctoral students and young researchers. Speakers are expected to give a short presentation (1-2 Minutes) that will be interesting and understandable for all researchers in the different fields. 

The EcolChange Centre of Excellence is very international. 1/3 of its 150 members are from outside Estonia. Most of the conference participants are members of the Centre, but also researchers from other Estonian universities in addition to the University of Tartu and the Estonian University of Life Sciences.