In this episode, we connect with Dr. Sydney Glassman, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology at the University of California, Riverside. Here, she specializes in the research of mycorrhizal fungi and soil fungi and bacteria – a complex community of organisms that can regenerate ecosystems after wildfires, and even contribute to litter decomposition…

Dr. Glassman wants to understand the patterns and processes that govern microbial diversity and their ecosystem functions, such as terrestrial symbioses and decomposition. What fascinating discoveries has she unearthed throughout her years of researching fungi? Tune in now to see for yourself!

Click play to find out:

• How wildfires impact soil microbiomes, and how they recover after. 
• What the heat tolerance of soil microbes typically is. 
• What ash is made out of, and why certain bacteria can survive in it.

You can find Dr. Glassman’s website here!

Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/30PvU9C