About Thorsten Knipfer

Education

2016 – 2020: Assistant Project Scientist, Department of Viticulture and Enology, University of California, Davis, USA.

2011 – 2016: Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Viticulture and Enology, University of California, Davis, USA.

2011 Ph.D., School of Biology and Environmental Science, University College Dublin, Ireland.

2007 Diploma (M.Sc.), Department of Plant Ecology, University of Bayreuth, Germany.

Biography

I joined UBC as an Assistant Professor in Plant Physiology at the Faculty of Land and Food Systems in September 2020. My research focuses on plant-water relations, xylem transport function, drought resistance, and sustainable irrigation strategies. Outside of my research, I enjoy lengthy bike rides and playing my guitar.

Teaching

‘Plant water relation for sustainable agriculture’ (APBI 405 and PLNT 505) – this 3-credit undergraduate course communicates applied principles related to crop physiology and irrigation. In-class demonstrations of crop monitoring techniques provide students hands-on experiences. In-class breakout groups stimulate discussions about precision irrigation and crop performance. Specific learning objectives are (i) debate the impact of climate change on crop performance and yield, (ii) discuss the water potential concept and its relevance for irrigation management, (iii) recognize anatomical traits affecting long-distance water transport, (iv) characterize physiological stress thresholds as irrigation targets, and (v) identify tools & techniques to monitor crop water status.

‘Plant image processing for agricultural science’ (PLNT 541) – this 3-credit graduate course provides students with knowledge about digital image processing techniques. Students learn how to extract quantitative information and generate 3D visualizations from digital image stacks. Students apply Fiji and Dragonfly software for image segmentation, annotation, and volume renderings in interactive class activities and take-home exercises. Students intensify their learning experience during literature reviews and in-class paper presentations. Specific learning objectives are (i) develop workflows for digital image processing, (ii) generate 3D visualizations of plant structural features, and (iii) interpret digital imaging data at micro- and macro-scale. This course is offered on demand for 5 or more students.

‘Directed studies’ (offered on demand) – in this 6-credit course offered over two terms, the student learns how to operate an imaging platform to determine root growth rates in response to abiotic stress. Following a literature review, the student develops a research hypothesis, designs an experiment, collects data, analysis data, and synthesis the outcome in form of a written report and oral presentation.

‘Introduction to Land, Food, and Community’ (LFS 100) – this 1-credit undergraduate course is offered in three sections (total 3 teaching credits) and is a requirement for all LFS students. Students gain fundamental knowledge about food system issues. They learn to explain how food systems are related to the environment, human health, education, economics, and politics. In discussion groups, they critically evaluate the food system within UBC. This is an interactive course that includes a series of guest speaker from various programs at LFS and online course reflections to stimulate discussion.

Research

My research program integrates fundamental research in crop physiology with applied agricultural research on irrigation management and engagement with the agricultural community. Specifically, I investigate crop water relations in response to drought with the overarching goal to assist in the development of guidelines for sustainable irrigation management. To achieve this, I work closely with local BC hazelnut and blueberry growers to bring research outcomes to field applications and collaborate with experts in crop imaging at the Canadian Light Source.