September has been a highly productive month for us, with plenty of exciting developments beyond field campaigns!
In fact, Laura successfully defended her PhD thesis, leaving a great impression on the jury, which had no major revisions to suggest for her entire project. This marks the conclusion of a wonderful journey in which Laura explored the drivers and consequences of drought-induced hydraulic dysfunction and mortality under global warming.
In the second half of August, PERL hosted a series of world-renowned researchers who delivered lectures on various topics related to forest eco-physiology. Our team also led a workshop at Pfynwald, where scientists from all over the world came to Lausanne to share their exciting research and had the opportunity to visit our unique VPDrought experiment in Valais!
Among the esteemed guests, we had the pleasure of hosting Prof. Kevin Hultine, the Director of Research at the Department of Research, Conservation, and Collections at the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, AZ. Kevin not only gave an outstanding presentation during the workshop, but he also provided invaluable assistance during our field campaigns across Europe. He will spend two months here in Lausanne, and weâre all thrilled to have the opportunity to spend time with him, exchange ideas, and collaborate on ongoing projects.
And to wrap up the summer on a high note, the whole lab participated in a fun activity together to celebrate the successful end of the summer period and enjoy the last of the pleasant summer temperatures. We wonât spoil the surprise by revealing what the activity was, find out for yourself by taking a close look at the photos below, they will speak for themselves!đ
