Symbiosis Continuum
Fungal Symbioses
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In the Scharnagl lab, we study the ecology, evolution, and continuum of fungal symbioses.
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All relationships exist along a continuum. Even symbioses, which we tend to think of in positive terms, are long term and physically intimate relationships that can range from parasitism to mutualism.
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Many factors, including the identity of the partners, the climate, nutrient availability, and other abiotic and biotic interactions, can influence where a relationship falls along the symbiosis continuum, and it can change throughout the lifetime of the organisms involved.
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We aim to discover the many factors that influence the symbiosis continuum of fungi in relationship to their photosynthetic partners and their myco- and microbiomes, and the ways in which these relationships will change, or even lead to dysbiosis, under global climate change.
Scientists are People
Anyone with a curiosity about the world around them, and how it works, has the potential to be a scientist. The best science arises from a diversity of approaches, which comes from a diversity of scientists with unique perspectives, training, and experiences. In our lab, we are working to promote and support diversity, equity, accessibility, inclusion, and belonging.
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In this lab, we emphasize the importance of wellness, and a balance between work, play, and rest. Within the scientific practice itself, we invite time and space for thinking, reflection, and creative expression.