Need
Changes in the frequency and occurrence of pests and pathogens are seen as significant potential threats to our tree resource. Increased stress on tree health is anticipated with environmental change, further increasing tree susceptibility to pests and pathogens. Impacts in the forest ecosystem as a result of changes to management practise and environmental variability are also poorly understood.
Solution
Tle Sylva Scholarship: the theme of the scholarship is healthy trees and productive forests. This reflects a joint vision between the Sylva Foundation and the Department of Plant Sciences, University of Oxford, to foster a robust tree and forest resource in the light of projected environmental change. Maintaining a healthy and functioning tree resource is critically important to support the delivery of a wide range of sustainable outputs, including wood products for a low carbon society.
Aims
Attract applicants of the highest calibre and award the first Sylva Scholarship in Autumn 2010
Activities
» Student starts work October 2010.
» Partners (research and funding) in place
Success: the appointment of a research student to start work by October 2010. Due to complete 2013.
Raise additional funds to secure a funds sufficient to endow the scholarship in perpetuity
Activities
» Raise a total of £300,000 (including Gift Aid) that the University will match at 40%
A donation of £300,000 (including Gift Aid) will be match-funded at 40% by the University
Impact
Sylva Scholars will make a significant contribution to the health and productivity of woodlands in the UK and beyond. These people will also be given a significant promotion towards making a lasting contribution to sustainability through their careers. Success will be measured by research outputs, student numbers, and specific target outcomes.
Risk
Lack of suitable calibre applicants - Univ Oxford attracts a large number of research students of the highest calibre. Funding - the first scholar is fully funded in the partnership between Sylva Foundation and the Department of Plant Sciences. Future Scholars will not be appointed unless sufficient funding is in place. Research costs for each project must be sourced - demonstrably relevant and quality projects should be attractive to funders.
Reporting
Regular reports based on termly student progress. Annual reports. Other research and communication outputs.
Budget - Project Cost: £300,000
| |
Amount |
Heading |
Description |
| |
£300,000 |
Donation |
Or £240,000 plus Gift Aid |
Current Funding / Pledges
| Source |
Amount |
|
| Dept. Plant Sciences |
£37,500 |
Guaranteed |
| Core funding |
£16,500 |
Guaranteed |
Location
All research students will be placed at the Department of Plant Sciences, University of Oxford, UK.
Beneficiaries
Whole society and environmental benefits in the UK, mainland Europe and beyond.
Why Us?
The Sylva Foundation has science at its core, both in senior staff and at trustee level. Through the collaboration with the Department of Plant Sciences, University of Oxford, we have created a partnership with an academic institution of unsurpassed reputation.
Read more about the Charity running this project.
People
Dr Gabriel Hemery FICFor, CEO Sylva
Dr Hemery is a passionate forestry advocate and prolific forestry scientist. He will act as External Supervisor for Sylva Scholars.
University Of Oxford Research And Support Staff
Scholars will supported and guided by the usual Graduate Studies programme.
