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 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!
2026 Host Committee and Theme
This year's symposium theme will focus on Nematology and is hosted by the Nematology Pathology Committee.
Honor Bestowed
Up to five APS graduate student presenters are selected to give a 30-minute presentation during the I.E. Melhus Symposium at the APS annual meeting.
Recipients of the award will have their registration fees waived to Plant Health 2026 (funded from the APS Foundation's I.E. Melhus Fund)
Recognition at the APS annual meeting.
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 1-4, 2026).
Submitted thesis research project must be related to the yearly designated topic/theme: TBD for 2026.
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 2026
Plus, (2) Letters of Recommendation* that 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 by the letter writer using the Letter of Recommendation Form.
Submit Letters of Recommendation
Submit Application
Applicants to save all required materials (except for the Letter of Recommendation) into one PDF document prior to submitting an application. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed or considered for funding.
Applications for 2026 will open alongside abstract submissions to Plant Health 2026.
Review Selection
Speakers will be chosen by an ad hoc selection committee comprised of the hosted APS committee members. Applicants will be selected competitively, based on research significance and potential impact.
Previous Awardees
