معرفی
Edward Schilling is a Professor in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. His research focuses on plant systematics, particularly within the Asteraceae family, including the study of Helianthus (sunflowers) and Trillium species. He holds a Ph.D. from Indiana University (1978) and has contributed extensively to molecular phylogenetic analyses of plant groups like Eupatorieae and Helianthus. His work integrates taxonomy, evolutionary biology, and conservation genetics. Collaborations include projects with Dr. Jose L. Panero on Asteraceae systematics and studies on plant biodiversity in Tennessee. Schilling’s research also addresses questions about species classification, polyploid evolution, and the biogeography of understory herbs. His lab is affiliated with Dabney Hall, and he maintains an active role in the university’s Ecology & Evolutionary Biology programs.
Education:
- Ph.D., Indiana University, 1978
Research Interests:
- Molecular phylogenetics of Asteraceae (e.g., Eupatorieae, Helianthus)
- Systematics of Trillium and related genera
- Polyploid evolution and hybridization in plants
- Conservation genetics of rare plant species
- Barcoding approaches for plant diversity assessment
Recent research highlights include molecular barcoding of Tennessee’s Asteraceae, phylogenetic studies of Trillium subgenera, and investigations into the origins of endangered sunflower species like Helianthus verticillatus. His publications span topics from species discovery to evolutionary mechanisms shaping plant diversity.
Advising and Grants:
- Active collaborative projects, including NSF-funded studies on Asteraceae diversification.
- Contributions to digitization initiatives for North American lichens and bryophytes.
Labs and Teams:
- Labs focus on molecular systematics and field-based plant ecology.
- Collaborations with international researchers in Mexico and Brazil on Neotropical Asteraceae.
