An image of fungi

Fungal science (mycology) plays a crucial role in biotechnology, pathogenesis of infectious disease, as well as in ecology, evolution and the environment. Certain fungi, for example yeasts, are vital for fermentation and chemical engineering, and their genetic tractability has also been widely exploited as a fundamental system in which to dissect eukaryotic genomics and biochemistry. Fungal pathogens, however, are the leading cause of plant and amphibian extinction events, and are increasingly causing lethal drug-resistant infections in animals and humans. Bearing a huge diversity in nature, fungi also take part in essential symbioses that perform important ecosystem functions.

Imperial has one of the largest groupings of mycologists in the UK and globally, which provides an outstanding opportunity for national and international scientific leadership in this under-developed area of bioscience to address fungal global challenges.

Our objectives

The primary purpose of the Fungal Science Network will be to coordinate a community of researchers and other stakeholders with an interest in the field of mycology within the College. Our main objectives include:

  • Building a collaborative network focussed on global fungal challenges
  • Providing a leadership, advocacy and communications platform for the fungal community
  • Creating a framework for the development of future leaders in fungal research