Natalie Christian
PI |
Allison Paolucci
PhD Student My research interests broadly focus on understanding how leaf endophytes influence plant secondary chemistry and physiology. During my PhD at UofL, I plan on taking a systems-based approach to investigate the effects of fungal endophytes in “chemically interesting” agricultural plants, such as cannabis. In 2020, I earned my master’s degree at Ohio University studying the effects of abiotic stressors on plant physiology and nutrient transport. Additionally, I am dedicated to promoting the involvement and success of underrepresented and underserved communities in science and research. |
Kylea Garces
PhD Candidate (Emery Lab) After completing my undergraduate degree at the University of Oregon, I joined the doctoral program at University of Louisville in 2018. Broadly, my research focuses on the ways fungal-plant interactions can shape community outcomes as well as the effects global change can have on shifting the direction and magnitude of these interactions to further alter community dynamics. My current dissertation research asks how resource addition in the form of nitrogen deposition alters fungal root endophyte community responses within American beachgrass. Furthermore, I aim to address how changes within the belowground fungal community may impose aboveground responses of the dune grass community on the shores of Lake Michigan. I also am interested in science pedagogy as a tool to breakdown learning barriers and increase inclusivity within the sciences. |