Welcome to the Forest Mycobiome lab based at the University of Washington and led by Dr. Claire Willing! At the confluence of microbial ecology, plant community ecology, and plant physiological ecology, we investigate the impact of climate change on plant microbiomes and the consequences for ecosystem resistance and resilience. We employ a variety of tools and methods, including DNA sequencing, bioinformatics, stable isotope ecology, stomatal gas exchange, and field and manipulative greenhouse experiments to better understand the often-overlooked microbial components of forest systems on their ability to adapt and respond to a changing climate.

The research in our lab is supported by grants from US Federal agencies (e.g. USDA, USGS) – Current grants include McIntire-Stennis and USGS CASC.