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Myco-Ed: Mycological curriculum for education and discovery

Summary

Myco-Ed is an educational program that teaches students about fungi while helping scientists create reference genomes for understudied fungal species. Students collect fungi from their local environments, identify them, and prepare samples for advanced genome sequencing through partnerships with major research institutions. This program solves two problems at once: training the next generation of fungal researchers and filling critical gaps in our knowledge of fungal genetics and diversity.

Background

Fungi are hyperdiverse and understudied organisms that play crucial roles in ecosystems and produce valuable natural products. Most fungal clades lack reference genomes, impeding understanding of their ecosystem functions and biotechnological applications. There is a critical shortage of training opportunities in fungal biology and genomics, creating a bottleneck in workforce development.

Objective

To develop and implement an educational program that trains students in fungal biology, genomics, and bioinformatics while simultaneously generating novel high-quality fungal reference genomes. The program aims to address the shortage of mycological expertise and expand genomic resources for understudied fungal taxa.

Results

Within two years, Myco-Ed trained 316 students across the US and generated 16 new reference fungal genomes with 30 more in progress, including first references for several fungal species, genera, and higher taxonomic levels. Student survey data revealed increased confidence in research, enhanced sense of belonging in science, and notably improved ability to use bioinformatics to answer scientific questions.

Conclusion

Myco-Ed effectively combines workforce development with scientific discovery by generating novel fungal reference genomes while training students in essential mycological expertise. The program directly addresses the critical need for skilled researchers in fungal biology and genomics, with broad applications across ecology, medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology.
  • Published in:PLoS Pathogens,
  • Study Type:Educational Program Implementation,
  • Source: PMID: 40680048, DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1013303
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