Climate

Dr. Peter Kennedy is a Professor in the Department of Plant and Microbial Biology at the University of Minnesota, where he studies the hidden world of fungi and their vital role in our forests and soils. His research focuses on how fungi interact with plants, microbes, and the environment, and how these interactions shape ecosystems from the North Woods of Minnesota to the tropical forests of South America. He has published widely on topics ranging from how fungi recycle nutrients to how climate change is altering underground communities. Beyond his research, Peter is also deeply involved in mentoring students and training the next generation of scientists, guiding both graduate and undergraduate projects in the lab and in the field.

In addition to his scientific work, Peter has served in leadership roles such as Associate Dean for Research in the College of Biological Sciences and as Interim Curator of Fungi at the Bell Museum of Natural History. He is a Fellow of the Mycological Society of America and has received several national and international awards for his research and teaching.