Mari Moora is a distinguished Professor in Community Ecology at the University of Tartu's Faculty of Science and Technology, Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences. Since August 2023, she has served as the Vice Rector for Research at the University of Tartu, a position she will hold until July 2028. With a career spanning over three decades at the University of Tartu, Professor Moora has established herself as a leading expert in plant ecology, particularly in the field of mycorrhizal symbiosis and its role in shaping plant communities. Education: Secondary education at Nõo Secondary School (1984) Bachelor's degree in Biology (Genetics) from University of Tartu (1989) PhD in Plant Ecology from University of Tartu (1998) with thesis supervised by Martin Zobel Professor Moora's research focuses on the processes behind the structure and diversity of plant communities, particularly examining the role of biotic interactions such as mycorrhizal symbiosis and pollination in shaping plant populations. Her work extends to studying global diversity patterns of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and soil metagenomics - investigating how soil molecular diversity influences visible ecological patterns across ecosystems. Her interdisciplinary approach combines field ecology, molecular techniques, and theoretical frameworks to address fundamental questions in community ecology and biodiversity science. Her recent publications demonstrate a clear trend toward understanding ecological processes at multiple scales, from molecular interactions to global biodiversity patterns. Professor Moora's work increasingly integrates cutting-edge molecular techniques like metabarcoding with traditional ecological approaches, creating a more comprehensive understanding of plant-microbial interactions. Her research has significant implications for biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, and understanding how ecological communities respond to environmental change. Scientific Awards: Order of the White Star, 4th class (2025) Estonian Academy of Sciences Alma Tomingas Medal (2023) Science Award of the Estonian Republic (2016) Honorary member of the University of Rio Cuarto (Argentina) (1998) Professor Moora has served as a principal investigator for significant research projects including "Plant-microbial mutualisms in dynamic ecosystems" (2021-2025) and the University of Tartu component of "Agroecology and new crops in future climates" (2024-2030). She has been actively involved in research administration and evaluation, serving on panels for the European Research Council, German Research Foundation, and European Commission. Her editorial work includes being an Academic Editor for PLoS ONE (2011-2016) and serving as a referee for numerous high-impact ecology journals. As Head of the Chair of Plant Ecology (2021-2023) and currently as Vice Rector for Research, Professor Moora plays a significant role in shaping research strategy and academic leadership at the University of Tartu. Her work bridges fundamental ecological research with practical applications for biodiversity conservation and sustainable land management.
