City Trees

These field-based recruitment experiments are a good way to test the meta-community dynamics of recruit- ment limitation of native species. We can identify how to increase the recruitment and regeneration of forest seeds in our urban forests. Also, by testing the relationship between urban soil physical and chem- ical properties and species richness and community composition, we can infer how plant-scale land mod- ifications have affected plant community assembly. So far, we've found that herbaceous plant species accrued gradually through the first 80 years of the chronosequence consistent with dispersal lim- itation from remote seed sources. Forest species appeared more slowly than species of open habi- tats but eventually reached a higher species richness. Introduced species were numerically dominant in most patches, but native species showed higher diversity. Richness was best predicted by land- scape position, with highest values on ridgetops. Diversity in all groups was lower than observed in rural second-growth communities of similar age. As urban forests mature, their species composition becomes more similar across sites, with the greatest con- vergence in the oldest patches. However, urban forest assembly proceeds more slowly than in nearby rural sites, with invasive species playing a more dominant role. Our ongoing soil analysis and field experiments will help identify the key environmental and dispersal-related factors driving these patterns, ultimately informing con- servation and restoration strategies for urban forests. Do you do teaching and extension activities as well? I work as a teaching assistant for Ohio University, guiding students through complex concepts and trying to foster their curiosity. This experience has sharpened my com- munication and leadership skills as I manage classroom discussions, assist with lab sessions, and provide indi- vidualized support. Simultaneously, I worked as a field instructor during field components of plant ecology, plant population and community ecology, and systematics courses. During my urban ecology field sessions, I mentor undergraduate field assistants and coordinate data col- lection and experiments, emphasizing the importance of organization, teamwork, and effective decision-making. For the past two years, I have actively contributed to STEM education by serving as a science fair judge, pro- viding constructive feedback to young students and encouraging their scientific curiosity. Additionally, I have volunteered as an instructor at the Ohio University Student Farm, leading educational field trips for ele- mentary school students as part of the Ohio CFI Sprouts program. Beyond these roles, I have been involved in various committees, including the Ohio State University Plant Sciences Symposium (OSU PSS) and the Society for Conservation Biology North America (SCBNA), further supporting science education and outreach. Peak experiences and mentors? Passing my Ph.D. candidacy was a great moment in my academic journey, and I couldn't have done it without the support of my advisor, Dr. Glenn Matlack. He has been an incredible mentor and his deep knowledge, thoughtful guidance, and patience have been so helpful in shaping my approach to research. I've also been for- tunate to receive grants that allowed me to attend and present my research at two academic conferences. What is your career goal? My goal is to work as a researcher dedicated to urban biodiversity conservation and sustainable urban for- estry. I am passionate about contributing to city planning initiatives that integrate ecological principles for the benefit of both people and the environment. Public outreach and science communication are also central to my aspirations, as I believe it is crucial to engage communities and raise awareness about the importance of urban ecosystems. With a strong com- mitment to social and environmental justice, I aim to contribute meaningfully to the field of urban ecology and help create greener, more resilient cities that promote equity and environmental sustainability. 38 CityTREES

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