Nahuel Policelli, CONICET - IPEEC CENPAT
Nahuel Policelli
CONICET - IPEEC CENPAT

Nahuel is a biologist (Universidad de Buenos Aires, 2014) that integrates greenhouse bioassays, field research, molecular biology, and bioinformatics to understand the role of soil microbes in ecosystems, with emphasis on mycorrhizal fungi's role as drivers of plant invasions. In his PhD (Universidad del Comahue, 2019), Nahuel described co-invasions patterns of ectomycorrhizal fungi and pine trees, identifying suilloid fungi as key pine invasion drivers. Subsequent research in Argentina, Chile and the USA, partially supported by a Fulbright scholarship, unveiled that the invasiveness of symbiotic fungi can modulate plants’ capacity to invade. During a first postdoc (Boston University 2020-2022), Nahuel explored how interactions between soil microbes shape nutrient cycling in forests, and the potential use of ectomycorrhizal fungi to aid forest restoration. Nahuel is now working to understand ecological traits related to fungal invasive potential, investigating mycorrhizal roles in drylands invasions and native plant encroachment. In turn, he actively engages in various global associations (e.g., SPUN, South American Mycorrhizal Research Network), aiming to enhance the visibility of the scientific work from the 'Global South', also reflected in his roles as a mentor, educator, and editorial contributor. Other than fungi Nahuel is passionate about cooking, travelling, and acting.

Abstract:

Unveiling Invasive Symbiotic Fungi: A South American Perspective