Dr. Gerald Tuskan has been awarded the 2025 Marcus Wallenberg Prize for his groundbreaking contributions to forest genomics, particularly his leadership in sequencing and analyzing the first tree genome.
This milestone achievement has reshaped global research in tree biology, forest biotechnology, and genome-based breeding.
Dr. Tuskan led the international team that sequenced the genome of the black cottonwood tree (Populus trichocarpa), published in 2006. It was the first tree genome ever sequenced and only the third plant genome to be decoded, following Arabidopsis and rice. His work paved the way for major advances in understanding the genetic structure and function of trees.
“The pioneering work of Dr. Tuskan has opened the door to faster, more precise tree breeding—helping us better adapt to climate change, pests, and environmental stress,” said Professor Johanna Buchert, chair of the Marcus Wallenberg Prize Selection Committee. “This genomic foundation is vital for the future forest bioeconomy.”
Tuskan’s work has since underpinned genome sequencing efforts in other key forest species, including Norway spruce, loblolly pine, and eucalyptus. His research also laid the groundwork for genome-based breeding, which enables faster and more accurate selection of trees with desirable traits, such as increased growth, wood quality, or stress tolerance.
As Director and CEO of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Center for Bioenergy Innovation at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Dr. Tuskan oversees a consortium of 17 institutions focused on advancing plant and microbial biotechnology for sustainable energy solutions.
Beyond his scientific contributions, Dr. Tuskan is known for fostering collaboration across academia, industry, and government. He has mentored numerous students and early-career scientists, and has published over 350 research papers, earning global recognition as one of the most cited researchers in plant biology.
The Marcus Wallenberg Prize, often referred to as the "Nobel Prize of the forest sector," will be awarded by HM the King of Sweden at a ceremony in Stockholm in November 2025.
About Marcus Wallenberg Prize (MWP)
The purpose of the Prize is to recognize, encourage and stimulate pathbreaking scientific achievements which contribute significantly to broadening knowledge and to technical development within the fields of importance to forestry and forest industries.
