Field trial of GMO trees to increase carbon sequestration
Faculty mentor/Supervisor: 
Amanda Goddard
Department Affiliation: 
Forest Ecosystems & Society
Project Location: 
Corvallis Campus & associated field / greenhouse sites
Project Description: 
The purpose of this study is to assess the effectiveness of constructs used to improve the rate of photosynthesis in black cottonwood trees by reducing photorespiration with the end goal of creating trees that can sequester more carbon. This technology may aid in the global goal of removal of 1,000 gigatons CO2 by 2100 to relieve pressures of climate change. The applicant will be responsible for monthly data collections on trees at a field site 15 minutes from Corvallis campus. Measurements they will be responsible for personally include diameter at breast height (DBH) and height measurements monthly. One time collection of SPAD measurements during senescence and regular monitoring of the trial will also be required. The applicant will also be responsible for leaf collections and data entry and partial analysis under the supervision of the supervisor. They will also be responsible for maintenance of field trials and lab maintenance as assigned.
Describe the type of work and tasks you anticipate the student will perform: 
Field data collection (DBH, height, SPAD meter, leaf collections). Data entry and organization, data cleaning Analysis in R studio, excel and imageJ Creation of a scientific poster summarizing their project and results
Hourly rate of pay: 
12.75
Detail your mentorship plan: 
I will personally teach the applicant to take field measurements, how to properly record field data, how to properly enter data, and how to use R-studio to do basic analysis of data (primarily linear models, ANOVA and Tukey contrasts, creation of histograms, scattergrams, and bar graphs). I will also teach them how to analyze data in imageJ. We will have biweekly meetings to review work done and address any questions or concerns. We will be in contact on days they intend to work to assign duties as needed.