Old-growth forests, ancient forests and forest reserves are attractive and rewarding outdoor laboratories to study diverse topics in forest ecology. This summer school offers scientific training for Master and PhD students interested in old-growth forests, and for Ukrainian scientists working in this field. The goal is to bring together a group of individuals which are motivated to learn from specialists in forest ecology, remote sensing, animal ecology, biodiversity and data management, and to contribute to an inspiring atmosphere.
The summer school will take place in a comfortable guest house in Nyzhnje Selyshche. Nyzhnje Selyshche is a village close to Khust in Transcarpathia, the westernmost region of Ukraine. Within Transcarpathia, the Carpathian Biosphere Reserve (CBR) harbors the largest old-growth European Beech Forest. This forest is part of the UNESCO World Heritage ‘Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe’. The focus of the summer school is on project work in small groups (about 50% of the time, including some field work). Moreover, the week includes introductory lectures on different facets of old-growth forest research. The highlight will be a field trip to the largest old-growth European beech forest (100 km2). There will be ample opportunity for discussing your own research with specialists from different disciplines to gain new insight and to acquire new perspectives. The summer school is also a great opportunity for intercultural exchange, and you will get an impression of a beautiful European country, its nature, culture and history. This summer school primarily targets Master and PhD students in environmental sciences, biology, geography and forestry. At least 5 places are reserved for students from Ukraine. Moreover, scientists working in Biosphere or National Park administrations or in forest research in Ukraine are welcome to attend. All participants must provide proof of being able to follow a lecture in English, and to express themselves in a discussion. Basic knowledge of the R programming language is a plus. Attendance is limited to 20 participants The course fee is 200 € for students from outside of Ukraine, 20 € for Ukrainian scientists, and free of charge for Ukrainian students. The fee includes food and lodging, course material and the excursions including necessary transports. Transports from Lviv to Nyzhnje Selyshche and from Nyzhnje Selyshche to Lviv will be arranged at low cost. Submission deadline is May, 15. Applicants will receive a notification of acceptance until June, 30. For more informations and registration, visit the website: https://www.wsl.ch/en/about-wsl/events/courses/summer-school-old-growth-forest-research.html
