I am interested in using genetic evidence to infer the evolutionary history and dispersal of fungal species, particularly fungal pathogens. I’m currently studying Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), the emerging fungal pathogen responsible for causing chytridiomycosis of amphibians.

Since its discovery in 1998, Bd has been implicated in population declines and extinction of hundreds of amphibian species worldwide. My dissertation research focuses on tracking the geographic distribution and movement of chytridiomycosis in southeastern Brazil using genetic analyses of pathogen cultures collected from infected frogs. My research is also aimed at using pathogen population genetics to understand the role of anthropogenic activities like deforestation, and the aquaculture of invasive host species on the dispersal and evolution of Bd in South America. My advisor is Professor Timothy James.