Benjamin W Held

Benjamin W Held is a Researcher in Plant Pathology at the University of Minnesota, affiliated with the Minnesota Invasive Terrestrial Plants and Pests Center. With 66 research outputs spanning from 1998 to 2025, he has established a significant research presence in fungal ecology and plant pathology.

His research expertise encompasses:

• Fungal taxonomy and systematics
• Wood-decaying fungi and degradation mechanisms
• Invasive fungal species and biosecurity
• Forest pathology and disease ecology

Dr. Held's recent work analyzes exotic fungi introduced through decorative wood in aquariums, entomopathogenic fungi effects on forest pests like Emerald Ash Borer, and emergent fungal diseases in North American forests. His research spans diverse geographical locations including Antarctica, the Ecuadorian Amazon, and the southeastern United States, demonstrating a global perspective on fungal ecosystems.

His scholarly contributions align with UN Sustainable Development Goals related to protecting terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity. Media coverage from November 2020 highlighted his expertise in developing Dutch elm disease-resistant trees, indicating public impact of his research.

Dr. Held maintains active research collaborations, particularly with R.A. Blanchette and other colleagues across multiple institutions, reflecting strong integration within the plant pathology research community.