Topic: research
ERC grant will support placement of tens of thousands of previously unknown fungi on evolutionary tree
Leho Tedersoo, Professor of Mycorrhizal Studies at the University of Tartu, has received the Advanced Grant from the European Research Council to systematise and describe members of the 95% majority of previously unclassified microscopic fungi, and other eukaryotic organisms not yet included in the current tree of life system. Using the kingdom Fungi as an example, a new system for DNA-based classification of organisms can then be created.
Doctoral defence: Sandeep Thayamkottu "Ecosystem scale modelling of carbon and nitrogen cycles in peatlands"
On the 26th of June at 14:15, Sandeep Thayamkottul will defend his doctoral thesis "Ecosystem scale modelling of carbon and nitrogen cycles in peatlands".
University of Tartu is the only research institution in Estonia to be positively evaluated in all six fields of research
On 23 May 2025, Minister of Education and Research Kristina Kallas approved the results of the external evaluation of Estonian research and development. The University of Tartu was the only institution in Estonia to receive a positive evaluation in all six fields: natural sciences, engineering and technology, medical and health sciences, agriculture and veterinary sciences, social sciences, and humanities and the arts.
Professor of Botany Meelis Pärtel elected as member of Academia Europaea
Meelis Pärtel, Professor of Botany at the University of Tartu, was elected to Academia Europaea, the Pan-European Academy of Humanities, Letters and Sciences. Pärtel will be active in the academy’s Ecology and Evolution section, where he sees strengthening connections between ecology and other research fields as his most important task.
Doctoral defence: Yehor Yatsiuk "Large tree-cavities as key structures for forest biodiversity"
On 9 June at 10.15 Yehor Yatsiuk will defend his doctoral thesis "Large tree-cavities as key structures for forest biodiversity" for obtaining the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (in Zoology and Ecology).
Mark your calendar: three-minute thesis competition for doctoral students will be held on 22 October
We invite engaging presentations from all fields of research, delivered in clear language, in Estonian or English.
Australian inclusive education expert gives guest lecture on 14 strategies for student engagement
On May 20, from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m., Associate Professor Ingrid Harrington from the University of New England, Australia will hold a guest lecture at University of Tartu on the award-winning project “Commencing Student Success Project”. The project provides 14 strategies aimed at helping all students feel supported at university and enhancing their academic success.
Seminar: Ülo Niinemets
Seminar: Ülo Niinemets | Structural rigidification of leaves of high altitude plants: implications for photosynthetic activity in current and future climates
What you need to know before applying for a doctoral programme
Doctoral studies are a part of the career path, giving you the knowledge and future skills needed to become a top specialist or manager.
Doctoral defence: Marianne Kivastik "Heterostylous plants in an era of global change: the role of local, landscape and climatic factors"
On May 9 at 10:15 Marianne Kivastik will defend her doctoral thesis "Heterostylous plants in an era of global change: the role of local, landscape and climatic factors"
