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​​​​I. E. Melhus Graduate Student Symposium

Purpose

The I. E. Melhus Graduate Student Symposium, named in honor of Irving E. Melhus, features presentations on graduate thesis work around a central theme each year that highlights research aimed at providing a better understanding of various areas of plant pathology. The symposium host Subject Matter Expert ​Committee in conjunction with financial support from the APS Foundation's I.E. Melhus Fund, sponsor the ​I. E. Melhus Graduate Student Symposium held each year at the APS Annual Meeting. ​

Donate to the I. E. Melhus Fund!​​

2025 Host Committee and Theme

Host ​Committee: Forest Pathology

Plant Health 2025 focus area: Breeding & Host Resi​stance

​Harnessing Host Resistance to Strengthen Management Strategies amidst Global Threats

Methods targeting host resistance are important to combat established threats, including disease outbreaks and climate change, and preserve genetic diversity within a host population. Research advancements in the 21st century have led to the development of new tools to improve existing resistance breeding efforts and establish novel approaches to harness host resistance for species restoration. This year’s symposium is looking to highlight those students employing host resistance methods in an innovative manner to establish a more resilient plant system.

Presentation: Up to five presenters are selected to give a 30-minute presentation during the I.E. Melhus Symposium at Plant Health 2025.

Award: Selected presenters will receive complimentary registration (value $569) to Plant Health 2025. A promo code will be sent to the awardee to use when registering for the meeting. 

Deadline to apply: ​March 20, 2025 

Eligibility ​​

  • APS Graduate Student Membership is required both at time of application and upon presentation at the meeting.

  • Applicants must be enrolled as a graduate student or have completed their graduate program within 12 months of the current APS annual meeting date (August 2025). 

  • Submitted thesis research project must be related to the yearly designated topic/theme: Harnessing Host Resistance to Strengthen Management Strategies amidst Global Threats.

​Application Requirements

  • Research Description​ (up to 5 pages maximum, excluding tables and figures): Requirements include listing a title and written description of the research project, stating the goals, methodology, results, and significance of the applicant's thesis research. 

  • Copy of Abstract submitted to Plant Health 2025

  • Letters of Recommendation* (2) ​Letters should include evaluations of the applicant's research and ability to present the research in a clear and effective manner. ​NOTE one of the two required letters must be submitted by the applicant's major professor. 
    *Recommendation Letters to be submitted directly using the Letter of Recommendation Form

Save all required materials (except for the Letter of Recommendation) into one PDF document prior to submitting your application. ​

​Submit ApplicationSubmit Letters of Recommendation

Deadline to apply: ​March 20, 2025 ​

Incomplete applications will not be reviewed or considered for funding. ​​​​

​Review Selection

Speakers will be chosen by an ad hoc selection committee comprised of the APS Host Committee members. Applicants will be selected competitively, based on research significance and potential impact. ​

Previous ​Awardees​​