Matthew E. Smith, Ph.D.
Duke University
Biology Department
125 Science Drive
Durham NC 27705
trufflesmith(at)gmail.com
Matthew E. Smith is currently a postdoctoral research associate in the Vilgalys Mycology Lab at Duke Univesrity. Much of Matt's research has focused on the ecology of ectomycorrhizal fungi and the systematics and evolution of hypogeous fungi (truffles). However, Matt is broadly interested in fungal ecology, evolution, and systematics and has studied a variety of fungi, including plant pathogens like Armillaria ("oak root fungus") and Claviceps purpurea (Ergot disease of grasses) as well as nematode-destroying fungi (Orbiliales and other Ascomycota). Matt's work combines the synergistic use of molecular, morphological, and culture-based methods in both laboratory and field settings. His current main project is examining ecological interactions and biodiversity among symbiotic ectomycorrhizal fungi of the Guiana Shield region in South America. Ectomycorrhizal fungi were once thought to be absent from the tropics, but recent research has shown that this guild of mutualistic fungi is abundant and diverse in tropical hotspots with several lineages of tropical host plants. For details see: www.huh.harvard.edu/research/msmith/index.html
