Bogar Lab

Using Genetics and Physiology to Understand the Ecology of Roots, Fungi, and Soil Microbes

Tree roots can extend meters deep into the soil, where they interact with fungi and bacteria. These microbes are diverse: although some are pathogens, others can improve a plant’s ability to take up soil nutrients and defend itself against disease. Our group focuses on one type of these beneficial interactions, ectomycorrhizal symbiosis between roots and soil fungi, which is essential for the health of most temperate forest trees. We aim to understand how this interaction works, how it improves tree stress response, and the ways in which ectomycorrhizal fungi interact with other microbes to affect the functioning of forest soils.