BioSylve

My academic training is that of forester, tree breeder, and quantitative forest geneticist.  In my career, I've worked as a university professor, a government manager, and an independent forestry consultant, and has established an international reputation as a research scientist in forest genetics. 

My achievements in the RS&T and forestry sectors are varied, and include: 

• Director of the NC State University-Industry Cooperative Tree Improvement Program 2000-2005.
• Developer of POPSIM^™, a computer software package for simulation of managed tree populations. 
• Professional experience on 6 continents in the field of natural resource management.
• Established international scientific reputation in forest tree improvement and forest genetics
• Successful consultant providing services in Canada, the USA, Europe, Asia, North Africa, South America, and New Zealand, in the areas of nursery technology, forest genetics and management of genetic resources.
• Founder of the government-industry cooperative tree breeding program in Nova Scotia, Canada.

My curriculum vitae and publication record are available here.

International experience

My life as a consultant has provided many exciting opportunities to work in many parts of the world.  In addition to periods as a visiting scientist in Sweden and the US, I completed several short- and long-term missions as a tree nursery and forest genetics specialist on international development projects in temperate, sub-tropical and tropical regions, including China, South America, and North Africa.  I've participated on a variety of international development projects funded by the Canadian International Development Agency, the World Bank, and the Nordic Development Bank.

POPSIM™

My past research includes the development of computer simulation techniques and a software package known as POPSIM™ that is now used under license in many countries for the assessment of genetic change and diversity in managed populations.  My work in simulation of breeding programs has remained at the leading edge for 10 years now, and has provided researchers with a unique tool to evaluate the consequences of the numerous decisions that are typical of a complex breeding program.  POPSIM™ itself has given rise to many peer-reviewed publications.  POPSIM™ is now available only to clients and research collaborators through a negotiated licence agreement.  Let us know if POPSIM™ might be useful to your organisation!