Karuna Shrestha

Project Title: Investigating rapid multiplication techniques and microbiome of Ash (Fraxinus excelsior), and genetic conservation of Wych elm (Ulmus glabra) to breed disease-tolerant genotypes.

Overview: Karuna, originally from Nepal, grew up with a deep connection to nature and developed a passion for conservation. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Forestry from Tribhuvan University, developing a strong foundation in forest management and biodiversity conservation. She then pursued a Master’s degree in Tropical and International Forestry from the University of Goettingen, specializing in forest genetics and tree breeding.

Motivated to further enhance the research experience and education in area of breeding and genetic conservation of trees, she embarked on her PhD journey at Teagasc, Forestry Development Department in collaboration with the University of Goettingen on ElmAsh project – Funded by the Teagasc Walsh Scholarship Programme.

Her research focuses on:

• Developing novel breeding techniques to accelerate the breeding of disease-tolerant ash genotypes.
• Investigating microbiome of tolerant and susceptible ash trees to identify potential biocontrol agents to enhance resilience in ash.
• Collecting and propagating healthy elm plant material for field testing and establishment of a germplasm collection. .

Through her research, Karuna contributes to sustainable forestry and the preservation of ash and elm tree species.

Programme: Crops, Environment, and Land Use Programme

Supervisors: Dr Dheeraj Rathore and Dr Oliver Gailing

Location: Crops Research Centre, Oak Park, Carlow

Funding Source: Teagasc