Ahead of their time: Women pioneers in plant biology

Title : Ahead of their time: Women pioneers in plant biology

Abstract:

Alien species invasion is recognised as one of the most severe and challenging global environmental threats. Introduced species may become invasive and displace native species, modify habitats, change community structure, affect ecosystem processes or wider ecosystem functioning, impede the provision of ecosystem services, and cause substantial economic losses. Tree of Heaven, Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle, native to Southeast Asia is today considered one of the most widespread invasive plant species in Europe and North America and is a subject of modern invasion ecology research. A. altissima happens to be the research subject of the first PhD thesis in plant biology made by women in Croatia in the beginning of the 20^th century, when the tree was cultivated as an ornament. Vjera Petaj, a passionate botanist and one of the first female students at the Royal University of Francis Joseph I in Zagreb (Croatia), used microscopy techniques for the investigation of morphology, anatomy, microchemistry, and biology of its extrafloral nectaries. All her results were later confirmed by modern microscopy techniques and contributed to the knowledge of their morphology and role in species physiology.

In this presentation an insight into social elements, particularly the status of women in the Croatian and European academic community in the early 20th century will be given. The results of this early microscopy work will be presented and linked with current research on the topic. The presentation will also focus on the ecology of A. altissima and its negative impact on the environment and human health. Conversely, potential ecosystem services, that this invasive plant species can provide, will also be discussed.

Biography:

Dr Poljuha graduated from molecular biology at the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb (Croatia), where she also holds a PhD degree in natural sciences in the field of biology. She has worked as a researcher at the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, The Institute of Agriculture and Tourism Poreč, and The Materials Research Center METRIS Pula. She has participated in 27 national and international projects and has published over 50 scientific papers. She is the founder of two laboratories and a Biotechnical Department. Her research interests are focused on invasive plants’ phytochemistry, plant genetics, and molecular markers’ application in the conservation of plant genetic resources. She is also involved with the popularization of science.