Revitalizing Forest Modeling: Unleashing Molecular Biomarkers for Precision in Climate Change Predictions

Research Opportunity at the United States Environmental Protection Agency

Title:

Revitalizing Forest Modeling: Unleashing Molecular Biomarkers for Precision in Climate Change Predictions

Research Area (s):

Climate Change and Resilient Systems

Lab, Region/Center, Office:

Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure  (CCTE), Office of Research and Development

Opportunity Location:

Research Triangle Park, NC

Opportunity Funding (Duration):

• National Science Foundation Non-Academic Research Internships for Graduate Students (INTERN) Supplemental Funding Opportunity (6 months maximum)
• Other Programs (contact research lead)

Project Description:

Forests, vital for ecosystem services and climate change mitigation, face challenges from evolving environmental changes including extreme climate events. While existing mathematical models often focus on the whole-organism level, such as tree, for characterizing and predicting climate change effects on forest development, this project addresses a gap by integrating mechanistic and biomarker data. Capturing the interplay between genetic factors, biochemical processes, and environmental stressors enhances predictive accuracy for informed decision-making.

This project pioneers a novel approach using proteomics assays to identify conserved and region-specific protein biomarkers, providing nuanced insights into climate change impacts on tree growth across diverse US regions. Bridging molecular understanding with mathematical modeling ensures more precise predictions tailored to western, northern, and eastern climates. By incorporating these biomarkers, the research significantly advances strategies for assessing, predicting, and managing forests amid changing climatic conditions.

Fellowship Goal and Learning Objectives:

Goal:  The fellow will learn how to translates scientific insights into actionable tools, providing an advanced mathematical modeling framework for characterizing and predicting climate change effects on various ecosystems.

Learning Objectives:

• Identifying Protein Targets, Biomarkers, and Biochemical Pathways
• Determining Benchmark and Departure Doses for Identified Biomarkers
• Incorporating Protein Biomarkers into Existing Mathematical Models for Prediction of Climate Change Effects

Preferred Skills and Qualifications:

Preferred Skills:

• Good verbal and writing skills; Enjoy lab and field studies.
• Ability to work both as a part of a team and independently.
• Basic knowledge and skill of molecular and cellular biology

Qualifications:  Graduate student or Ph.D. in one of the relevant fields (e.g., Molecular and Cellular Biology, Biochemistry, Physiology, Genetics, and OMICS).

Point of Contact or Research Lead:

Dr. Yue Ge (ge.yue@epa.gov)