I have integrated traditional paleoecological techniques (e.g., pollen analysis) and state-of-the-art analytical tools (e.g., biomarker, stable-isotope, and chloroplast-DNA techniques). Current research projects in my laboratory apply this integrative approach to the study of environmental dynamics at various spatial and temporal scales. These projects focus on (1) abrupt climatic change and effect on forests/grasslands/peatlands, (2) geomorphic control over vegetation patterns and biogeochemical processes of tundra ecosystems, (3) molecular genetics of boreal-forest-biome development, and (4) climate-fire-vegetation interaction. Research sites include arctic, boreal, and temperate ecosystems in Alaska, Michigan, Minnesota, Washington, and Russia. Students working with Professor Hu can choose Department of Plant Biology, Department of Geology, or the campus-wide Graduate Program in Ecology, Evolution and Conservation as their home unit, but they should all be interested in
