This seminar series aims to provide a platform for early career researchers (including PhD candidates) to present their research and stimulate discussion on a diverse set of topics related to seed microbiomes.
The presentations take place online (~20 min + 10 min Q&A) via Zoom, on the first Thursday of the month at 16:00-17:30 CET every three months (September, December, March and June). To stimulate discussion and allow for the presentation of ongoing work, the talks are not recorded.
Abstract:
Researcher Spotlight is a seminar series highlighting the career paths, experiences, and insights of scientists working in the field of seed microbiomes. Each session features a researcher sharing their journey, challenges, and perspectives on building a career in microbial ecology, providing inspiration and guidance for early-career scientists and peers alike.
About the presenter:
David Johnston-Monje is a plant microbial ecologist who has hoped to discover and develop microbes that could be useful in plant agriculture. During his PhD at the University of Guelph, he studied the seed endophytes of maize and discovered that the majority of the plant microbiome is transmitted through the seed. His research career spans the International Potato Center (Peru), EMBRAPA Agrobiologia (Brazil), the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (Colombia), A&L Biologicals and Indigo Agriculture where he was the founding employee. He is Principal Investigator and Max Planck Tandem Group Leader at Universidad del Valle in Cali, Colombia, in cooperation with the Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research. His ongoing research focuses on vertical transmission of plant microbiomes, identifying emerging plant pathogens and applied aspects of agricultural microbiology.