Robert A Blanchette

Robert A Blanchette is a Professor in the Department of Plant Pathology at the University of Minnesota, with research focusing on forest pathology, wood microbiology, and conservation of historic wood. His work spans tree defense mechanisms, biological control of pathogens, and fungal ecology in extreme environments.

• Education: PhD in Plant Pathology (Washington State University), MS in Forest Pathology (University of New Hampshire), BA in Biology/Botany (Merrimack College)

Current research includes:

• Fungal interactions with invasive pests like the Emerald Ash Borer
• Antarctic and Arctic fungal biodiversity
• Archaeological wood conservation in Greenland
• Biological control of white-nose syndrome in bats
• Ganoderma species pathogenicity in forests

Key projects are funded by the Minnesota Invasive Terrestrial Plants and Pests Center, NSF, and USDI Fish and Wildlife Service. Collaborations include the National Museum of Denmark and Center for Drug Design.

Students and researchers in his group include Cristina Toapanta, Nick Rajtar, Sofia Simeto, Liam Genter, Davy DeKrey, Eric Otto, and Nazaret Ramirez.