Rhea Lumactud

Dr. Rhea Lumactud is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Plant, Food, and Environmental Sciences at Dalhousie University's Faculty of Agriculture. Her research focuses on microbial diversity and ecosystem functions in agricultural and natural systems, emphasizing plant-soil microbiome interactions and sustainable land management. She holds a PhD in Microbial Ecology/Environmental Microbiology from the University of Toronto, with postdoctoral training at the University of Alberta and Pennsylvania State University.

Education:

• PhD, Microbial Ecology/Environmental Microbiology, University of Toronto
• MSc, Soil Ecology, University of Manitoba
• MSc, Nematology, University of Ghent, Belgium
• Postdoctoral Fellowships: University of Alberta and Pennsylvania State University

Research Interests: Dr. Lumactud investigates microbial patterns, plant-soil feedbacks, trophic interactions, and soil biodiversity. Her work employs multidisciplinary approaches, including omics, isotopic analyses, and classical methods to address challenges in sustainable agriculture and ecosystem resilience. Key questions include how stress events and management practices influence microbiota dynamics and nutrient cycling, and how regenerative practices enhance soil health.

Labs/Equipment: Her lab is equipped with advanced facilities such as the Thermoscientific Quant Studio 5 PCR system, BIO-RAD S1000 Thermal cycler, and BioTek microplate reader, supporting molecular and ecological research.

Teaching: She teaches courses in microbiology, food microbiology, and agricultural microbiomes. Dr. Lumactud actively mentors undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral researchers, fostering a collaborative environment. She encourages international collaborations to address global ecological challenges.