Hi I am
Anna Lazar
This is my website
About Me
Environmental microbiologist
I am Anna Lazar a final-year doctoral candidate at The University of Warwick. I am passionate about plant-fungal interactions. Please look at my work, get in touch and let’s discuss fungi.
Environmental Microbiology
Our group studies the structure, diversity and function of microbial communities inhabiting plants, soil and water. We work across a range of natural and agricultural systems.
Environmental Processes
Our lab studies environmental processes that occur within the terrestrial biosphere. We link plants and microbes to the flow of nutrients in natural and managed ecosystems.
Hi I am
Anna Lazar
This is my website
About Me
Environmental microbiologist
I am Anna Lazar a final-year doctoral candidate at The University of Warwick. I am passionate about plant-fungal interactions. Please look at my work, get in touch and let’s discuss fungi.
Environmental Microbiology
Our group studies the structure, diversity and function of microbial communities inhabiting plants, soil and water. We work across a range of natural and agricultural systems.
Environmental Processes
Our lab studies environmental processes that occur within the terrestrial biosphere. We link plants and microbes to the flow of nutrients in natural and managed ecosystems.
phd project
Main focus
Tetracladium spp.
Tetracladium is a decomposer of organic material in freshwater streams, however, in recent years, it was found to be abundant in soil and in association with plant roots. This phenomenon has been observed on a global scale, encompassing various climates and types of vegetation. Little is known about the lifestyle and the interaction of these fungi within plant roots or terrestrial environments.
Despite its newfound importance, our understanding of the behaviour and interactions of these fungi within plant roots and terrestrial ecosystems remains limited. Delving into the lifestyle and ecological relationships of the genus could potentially unlock opportunities for fostering sustainable agricultural systems.
phd project
Main focus
Tetracladium spp.
Tetracladium is a decomposer of organic material in freshwater streams, however, in recent years, it was found to be abundant in soil and in association with plant roots. This phenomenon has been observed on a global scale, encompassing various climates and types of vegetation. Little is known about the lifestyle and the interaction of these fungi within plant roots or terrestrial environments.
Despite its newfound importance, our understanding of the behaviour and interactions of these fungi within plant roots and terrestrial ecosystems remains limited. Delving into the lifestyle and ecological relationships of the genus could potentially unlock opportunities for fostering sustainable agricultural systems.
Research Areas
My PhD project
I am mainly interested in plant-fungal interactions. The main focus of my research is endophytic fungi, microbial ecology and environmental microbiology.
Environmental microbiology
Microscopic organisms, including bacteria, archaea, fungi, and viruses, play a crucial role in shaping the Earth’s ecosystems, affecting everything from nutrient cycling to climate regulation. By studying the diversity, function, and dynamics of environmental microbes, we gain valuable insights into the intricate relationships that govern the natural world.
Fungal endophytes
These unassuming fungi take up residence within plant tissues, establishing mutually beneficial relationships that have far-reaching implications for both the host plants and the surrounding ecosystems. With their extraordinary abilities to enhance plant health, resilience, and ecological success, fungal endophytes have captured the attention of scientists and nature enthusiasts alike.
Third-generation genomics
Comparative genomics unravels the mysteries of life by comparing the genetic information of various organisms. Through the integration of bioinformatics, molecular biology, and evolutionary biology, comparative genomics offers profound insights into the evolutionary history, functional mechanisms, and shared genetic traits across species.
Research Areas
My PhD project
I am mainly interested in plant-fungal interactions. The main focus of my research is endophytic fungi, microbial ecology and environmental microbiology.
Environmental microbiology
Microscopic organisms, including bacteria, archaea, fungi, and viruses, play a crucial role in shaping the Earth’s ecosystems, affecting everything from nutrient cycling to climate regulation. By studying the diversity, function, and dynamics of environmental microbes, we gain valuable insights into the intricate relationships that govern the natural world.
Fungal endophytes
These unassuming fungi take up residence within plant tissues, establishing mutually beneficial relationships that have far-reaching implications for both the host plants and the surrounding ecosystems. With their extraordinary abilities to enhance plant health, resilience, and ecological success, fungal endophytes have captured the attention of scientists and nature enthusiasts alike.
Third-generation genomics
Comparative genomics unravels the mysteries of life by comparing the genetic information of various organisms. Through the integration of bioinformatics, molecular biology, and evolutionary biology, comparative genomics offers profound insights into the evolutionary history, functional mechanisms, and shared genetic traits across species.
Publications
Check out my recent publications
Find out more about my recent publications and collaborations. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or if you want to discuss fungal endophytes.
Publications
Check out my recent publications
Find out more about my recent publications and collaborations. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or if you want to discuss fungal endophytes.
New
Research highlights
Relative abundance of Tetracladium sp. in roots increases with pH, concentrations of phosphorus, and increased rotation frequency of oilseed rape. It decreases with increased soil water content, and concentrations of extractable phosphorus, chromium, and iron.
Research projects
I actively engage in research projects as a research assistant
unravelling the microbiome of Miscanthus in the uk
Our research sheds light on the hidden microbial communities thriving within this versatile and sustainable plant. Miscanthus, a promising bioenergy crop, has garnered increasing attention for its potential to mitigate climate change and provide renewable resources. Yet, its interactions with the microorganisms in its environment play a crucial role in its growth, health, and overall ecological impact. Through comprehensive analysis and exploration, we aim to better comprehend the dynamic relationships between Miscanthus and its microbiome in the UK.
using environmental dna to understand biodiversity in public parks
Environmental DNA, or eDNA analysis is an innovative tool for understanding biodiversity in public parks. By collecting and analyzing genetic material from environmental samples like soil and water, it allows scientists, conservationists, and park managers to identify and monitor the species present in these urban green spaces without direct observation. This approach aids in effective conservation efforts and ensures the overall health and sustainability of these natural environments.
Research projects
I actively engage in research projects as a research assistant
unravelling the microbiome of Miscanthus in the uk
Our research sheds light on the hidden microbial communities thriving within this versatile and sustainable plant. Miscanthus, a promising bioenergy crop, has garnered increasing attention for its potential to mitigate climate change and provide renewable resources. Yet, its interactions with the microorganisms in its environment play a crucial role in its growth, health, and overall ecological impact. Through comprehensive analysis and exploration, we aim to better comprehend the dynamic relationships between Miscanthus and its microbiome in the UK.
using environmental dna to understand biodiversity in public parks
Environmental DNA, or eDNA analysis is an innovative tool for understanding biodiversity in public parks. By collecting and analyzing genetic material from environmental samples like soil and water, it allows scientists, conservationists, and park managers to identify and monitor the species present in these urban green spaces without direct observation. This approach aids in effective conservation efforts and ensures the overall health and sustainability of these natural environments.
Anna Lazar
Post Graduate Researcher
PhD in Life Sciences University of Warwick
MSc in Plant Biology Eotvos Lorand University 2020
BSc in Biology Eotvos Lorand University 2018