Suitable for this Best Researcher Award
Dr. Ting Tang stands as a pioneering figure in Plant Ecology, whose research on genetic variation in forest species and biodiversity has advanced our understanding of subtropical forest dynamics. With an impressive portfolio of high-impact publications and international collaborations, she has explored how tree genetic diversity impacts growth, functional traits, and ecosystem productivity. Currently a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Zurich, Dr. Tang applies a combination of fieldwork, bioinformatics, and advanced statistical modeling to ecological questions of global relevance. Her commitment to sustainability and ecosystem health aligns perfectly with the goals of the Best Researcher Award. Recognized across multiple forums, her work has provided crucial insights for biodiversity conservation and climate resilience. Dr. Tang is not only a rigorous researcher but also a thoughtful collaborator and science communicator, making her a deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition.
Education
Dr. Ting Tang’s academic journey in Ecology reflects a deep dedication to understanding nature’s complexity. She earned her PhD in Ecology from the Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, with a thesis on the influence of genetic variation on tree growth. She enriched her doctoral research with international experience, spending a year at the University of Zurich as a Guest PhD student, examining how genetic diversity shapes forest structure. Prior to her PhD, she completed a Bachelor’s in Ecology at Xiamen University, where she investigated mangrove soil carbon stocks. Her undergraduate thesis laid the foundation for her current focus on biodiversity and ecological function. Her academic development includes exchange studies at Lund University, Sweden, enhancing her global ecological perspective. This diverse and international education background has uniquely positioned Dr. Tang to tackle critical global challenges in forest ecology and plant biodiversity conservation.
Professional Experience
Dr. Ting Tang’s professional trajectory is anchored in international research excellence. Currently a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Department of Geography, University of Zurich, she collaborates with Dr. Meredith Schuman, applying statistical and bioinformatic tools to investigate plant trait variations. From 2022 to 2023, she served as a Guest PhD researcher at the same institution, focusing on functional traits in forest ecosystems. Her previous work at the Institute of Botany in Beijing emphasized genetic variation and biodiversity’s role in ecosystem productivity. Dr. Tang is also a skilled field ecologist, leading data collection efforts on leaf traits, wood density, and nutrient analysis. Her ability to design, manage, and execute interdisciplinary research projects has been proven repeatedly. With experiences spanning China, Switzerland, and Sweden, Dr. Tang has emerged as a collaborative and culturally adept researcher, contributing to global ecological dialogues through her work in forest biodiversity and plant ecology.
Awards and Recognition
Dr. Ting Tang has been widely recognized for her academic excellence and scientific contributions. Her honors include the Poster Prize at the Chinese Biodiversity Forum, the 3rd Prize Poster Award at FORBIODIV 2022 in Davos, and a 2nd Place Oral Presentation at the Chinese Ecologist Club Forum. She was awarded the Merit Student recognition by the Institute of Botany and received multiple scholarships during her undergraduate studies at Xiamen University—including the LuYan, Yang Rongrong, and Academic Scholarships. These accolades underscore her commitment to research excellence and communication. Beyond awards, she has chaired sessions at prestigious conferences like the British Ecological Society Annual Meeting, and presented at global forums like Intecol and the World Biodiversity Forum. Dr. Tang’s ability to disseminate complex ecological research in accessible formats has earned her praise both within and beyond academic circles, solidifying her as a standout candidate for the Best Researcher Award.
Dr. Ting Tang possesses a robust set of research skills central to modern Plant Ecology. Her expertise includes statistical modeling (ANOVA, mixed models, variance partitioning), data analysis and visualization in R, and advanced bioinformatics techniques such as SNP calling and RAD-seq filtering. She is experienced in open data practices, project management, and collaborative research. A significant part of her research involves fieldwork—measuring functional traits like leaf morphology, wood density, and nutrient content in subtropical forests. She has led multiple field campaigns and coordinated with diverse scientific teams across continents. Dr. Tang is fluent in Chinese, proficient in English, and learning German, allowing her to engage across linguistic and cultural boundaries. Her contributions lie at the intersection of ecological function, genetic variation, and climate-sensitive biodiversity, making her a future leader in sustainable forest management and ecological science. Her skillset is not only technical but strategic and cross-disciplinary.
Publications
Identifying seed families with high mixture performance in a subtropical forest biodiversity experiment – New Phytologist (2025)
Tree species and genetic diversity increase productivity via functional diversity and trophic feedbacks – eLife (2022)
Understory shrub diversity equally vital as overstory tree diversity to promote forest productivity – National Science Review (2025)
Explaining citizens’ plastic reduction behavior in Switzerland – Journal of Environmental Management (2024)
Functional diversity–productivity relationship of woody plants is climatically sensitive – Ecology and Evolution (2024)
Species richness, traits, and climate affect tree survival in biodiversity experiments – Journal of Ecology (2022)
Effects of salinity and light on traits of two nonnative mangrove species in China – Journal of Coastal Research (2021)
Species identity and composition effects on community productivity in subtropical forests – Basic and Applied Ecology (2021)
Linkages of flow regime and micro-topography on mangrove invasion – Ecosystem Health and Sustainability (2020)