My primary research interests are in the systematics and biodiversity of ascomycetous fungi. Until now, I have focused my work on the order Hypocreales, more specifically, with fungi that have biocontrol properties against plant pests and diseases (e.g.Trichoderma and Aschersonia, among others). Currently, I also have research projects that deal with the taxonomy of endophytes in the tropics and the systematics of fungal pathogens (Nectriaceae, Hypocreales) associated with hardwood trees in temperate and tropical regions. In my research, I use a synergy of traditional taxonomic techniques, such as field collecting, microscopy and culture in artificial media, as well as molecular phylogenetic analyses using DNA sequences. I obtained my B.Sc. in Forestry from the Technological Institute of Costa Rica (ITCR). My Ph.D. is in Plant Pathology from The Pennsylvania State University and my post-doctoral research was at Cornell University. I have been an assistant professor at University of Maryland since 2008. For more information about my lab, go to http://mycology.umd.edu.
