This area of research investigates the genomics, systematics, and evolution of fungi, bacteria, and viruses; the interactions of these organisms with each other, their environment including important hosts; and the evolution of these interactions.
Research focuses on improving commercial mushroom production through disease control and studying and manipulating microbial ecology and population dynamics during the composting process. The Penn State Mushroom Research Center (MRC) is one of the few research facilities in the world dedicated to mushroom research.
This research is focused on translating knowledge about the biotic, abiotic, and environmental causes of plant diseases into effective, economically feasible, and environmentally sound disease management strategies.
Research in this area aims to understand plant-microbe and plant-environment interactions associated with plant growth, health, and disease.
