Marili Vester

Marili Vester is a Research Fellow at the Chair of Silviculture and Forest Ecology, Institute of Forestry and Engineering, Estonian University of Life Sciences. She obtained her PhD in 2023 with a dissertation on the genetic diversity and ecology of invasive forest pathogens. Her current research focuses on forest pathology, fungal biodiversity, and invasive species management.

Education:

• PhD in Forestry, Estonian University of Life Sciences (2023)
• Master's in Forest Management, Estonian University of Life Sciences (2017, cum laude)
• Bachelor's in Natural Resources Management, Estonian University of Life Sciences (2015, cum laude)

Research Interests: Dr. Vester specializes in forest pathology with emphasis on invasive pathogens (e.g., Lecanosticta acicola), fungal ecology (e.g., Inonotus obliquus), genetic diversity of forest pathogens, and sustainable forest management. Her work integrates molecular diagnostics, field surveys, and ecological modeling to address emerging forest health threats.

Publications: Her recent articles (2018-2025) primarily explore invasive pathogen dynamics, fungal biodiversity, and disease management in European forests. Key themes include host-pathogen interactions, genetic adaptation of invasive species, and ecological impacts of forest diseases.

Awards & Honors:

• Endel Laas Scholarship (2017)
• Heino Teder Scholarship (2016)

Projects & Grants: She leads/co-leads multiple projects including:

• Boosting cultivation of Chaga mushroom (€234,000; 2024-2027)
• Detection of quarantine rust fungi (€80,000; 2024-2027)
• Impact of mycorrhizal inoculation on birch growth (€57,588; 2025-2028)

Teaching: Instructs courses on Forest/Wood Pathogens (MI.1065) and Wood Protection (MI.1803).