Dr. Heather Karsten

Associate Professor

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Biography

Heather Karsten is an Associate Professor in the Department of Plant Science at Pennsylvania State University, specializing in agroecology and crop production systems. She has made significant contributions to the field of sustainable agriculture, with research focused on developing ecological practices for crop management that enhance productivity while conserving environmental resources. Dr. Karsten's extensive background includes a Ph.D. in Agronomy from Cornell University and a post-doctoral fellowship at Utah State University, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to agroecological research. Her teaching engagements encompass advising and curriculum development, specifically for the Plant Sciences Agroecology Major, and she is active in conducting research related to soil health and sustainable cropping systems. Dr. Karsten's work has been widely published, reflecting her expertise in areas such as conservation farming techniques, nutrient management, and the ecological impacts of agricultural practices. In addition to her research, she coordinates the Agronomy Minor and supports various educational initiatives within the department. Dr. Karsten's commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture is evident in her teaching and research efforts, which aim to foster resilience against climate change and improve agricultural productivity.

Research Interests

Experience

Associate Professor

2003-01-01 — Present

Pennsylvania State University • University Park, PA

Teaching and research role focusing on agroecological practices and crop management.

Assistant Professor

1998-01-01 — 2003-01-01

Pennsylvania State University • University Park, PA

Teaching responsibilities and research in agronomy.

Post-doctoral Research Associate

1996-01-01 — 1997-01-01

Department of Plants, Soils, Biometeorology, Utah State University • Logan, Utah

Conducted research in plant, soil, and meteorological interactions.

Teaching Assistant

1996-01-01 — 1996-06-01

University of California Education Abroad Program • Las Cruces, Costa Rica

Assisted in teaching and biological research.

Courses

AGECO 134N - Sustainable Agriculture Science Policy AGECO 144 - Principles Practices Organic Agriculture PLANT 461 - Emerging Issues Plant Sciences AGRO 510 - Ecology Agricultural Systems AGRO 489 - Supervised Experience College Teaching

Requirements for Pennsylvania State University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Writing
Required:24
Speaking
Required:23
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Writing
Required:7
Speaking
Required:7
Overall
Required:7
GRE General
Prerequisites
Master's degree in related field for PhD Baccalaureate degree from accredited institution
Application Checklist
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Writing Sample
  • Official Transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

GRE scores are highly recommended but not strictly required for Applied Linguistics.