Assistant Professor Eric Wiseman is the recipient of the 2012 Early Career Scientist Award from the International Society of Arboriculture, which boasts over 20,000 members worldwide. The award recognizes scientists in the field of urban forestry and arboriculture who demonstrate exceptional promise and high career potential for producing internationally recognized research. “It’s a privilege to be considered to be on a trajectory to get to the level of past recipients,” said Wiseman. “To be given an award that says I might be as good as they are gives me something to shoot for.”

Wiseman got his start in the field when he couldn’t find a job as a recent wildlife science graduate. “I was lucky enough to meet Alan Jones of Bartlett Tree Experts at a career fair, and it led me to become a grounds man for the company. I got hooked on it, but I felt deficient in urban forestry, so I went back to school and got my master’s and later my Ph.D.”

Wiseman teaches urban forestry and arboriculture in addition to advising student researchers. He has published 18 articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals and trade magazines. In addition, Wiseman is known for his work on roadside arboriculture management, citizen monitoring of the emerald ash borer infestation, and predicting urban canopy coverage through tree growth.