Dr. Liz Koziol, a distinguished plant-microbe ecologist at the Kansas Biological Survey within the University of Kansas, USA, seamlessly combines roles as a researcher, museum curator, and small business owner, with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi being the unifying thread that ties her diverse roles together. Over two decades, Liz has conducted extensive research and led mycorrhizal trials in diverse landscapes, including native grasslands and cropping systems. Collaboration is fundamental to Liz's approach, integrating her research into conservation projects, providing crucial evidence for conservation planning. She has cultivated partnerships with organizations like the Land Institute and local farms, exploring mycorrhizal applications in organic agriculture. Her work in applied microbiology holds significant potential for biodiversity restoration in grasslands.

As an associate curator of the renowned International Collection of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi at the University of Kansas, Liz oversees the world's largest collection, with over 1,000 unique isolates. Her curatorship reflects her expertise and dedication to advancing our understanding of these fungi. Additionally, Liz leads MycoBloom LLC, providing native mycorrhizal fungi isolates for gardening, agriculture, and ecosystem restoration. Through her endeavors, Liz leads in mycorrhizal ecology research and practical applications.