Speakers
Research Presentations
Dr. Choudoir will introduce the foundational principles of microbiome stewardship as it relates to environmental microbiomes, exploring how responsible practices and frameworks can protect these crucial microbial communities. Her talk will discuss key strategies for sustainable microbial management, including how conservation practices can align with microbiome stewardship principles to maintain ecological balance and support environmental health. Attendees will gain insights into applying stewardship concepts to real-world environmental challenges, ensuring that environmental microbiomes continue to play their vital role in planetary well-being.
Dr. Mallory Choudoir is an Assistant Professor and Soil Microbiome Extension Specialist at North Carolina State University, where she leads research focused on the ecology and evolution of soil microbial communities. Her work aims to translate cutting-edge microbiome science into practical solutions for sustainable agriculture. With a background in microbial ecology, Dr. Choudoir investigates how microbial communities respond to environmental change and management practices, with the goal of enhancing agroecosystem resilience and reducing reliance on chemical inputs. She is particularly interested in how soil health and microbial biodiversity contribute to long-term agricultural productivity and climate adaptation.
In addition to her research and extension work, Dr. Choudoir is a committed educator and science communicator. She is an active member of the Microbes and Social Equity (MSE) group, where she contributes to broader conversations on the intersection of microbial ecology, environmental justice, and stewardship.