Christopher Blackwood
Professor, Plant Biology
Professor, Plant Soil and Microbial Sciences
Professor, Ecology, Evolution & Behavior Program
Location: S124 Plant Biology Lab
Phone: 517-432-0669
Email: blackw79@msu.edu
Bio
##Education Ph.D. Michigan State University ##Research Overview Research in my lab examines ecology and evolution of plants and microorganisms, with a focus on belowground interactions. Understanding the ecology of soil organisms is critical for predicting future ecosystem conditions and developing management strategies for sustainability. We are particularly interested in the critical roles of soil-plant-microbe interactions in shaping plant communities, ecosystem processes, and soil carbon dynamics. Current and recent projects have addressed 1. coexistence of closely related plant species, 2. cascading effects of tree root traits on pathogen populations and soil carbon, 3. forest restoration, 4. performance of urban green roofs. ##Research Interests Community ecology of plants and microorganisms; Plant-fungal interactions; Root traits; Soil biogeochemistry and carbon dynamics #Links [Google Scholar Profile](https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=5Auy04IAAAAJ&view_op=list_works&sortby=pubdate)
Courses
- PLB 498: Undergraduate Research