The Emergence of Global Mycology

Opportunity Description:

In support of an ongoing book project on the global history of mycology (the science of fungi) and related fields, the undergraduate researcher will work with historical scientific letters, journal articles, magazines, and more in order to trace the emergence and development of the international mycological community in the 19th and 20th centuries. We will focus our attention on fungal researchers, collectors, and plant pathologists in North America, Europe, and East Asia, but if students possess specific interests in other regions and/or relevant linguistic capabilities, tailored projects focused on alternative areas are very possible. The student researcher will assist in locating, organizing, and summarizing the content of archival materials as well as cataloging items for an upcoming database of international mycological correspondence. There will also be opportunities for brief research travel to institutions in the Chicago area. As the project is focused on international scientific communication and exchange, reading fluency in languages other than English is valuable but not required.

Knowledge or skills gained from the experience: 

Students will be introduced to relevant historical and anthropological readings in the field and meet one- on-one with Dr. Bolman in order to discuss them. They will learn how to conduct archival research, collect images and other documents, use software citation tools, and gain competencies in analyzing and contextualizing research materials that will support their own work.

Application Process: 

Contact Dr. Bolman.

Application Requirements: