Shauna Reynolds
Project title: Microbial Interactions in Casing Replacements on Mushroom Farms – Studying Health, Infestation and Fungal Threats (MICRO-SHIFT)
Biography: Shauna is a PhD researcher at Teagasc Ashtown and Maynooth University, working on the MICRO-SHIFT project, which investigates microbial interactions in alternative casing materials used in mushroom production.
Mushroom production is Ireland’s largest horticulture sector, and the industry is facing increasing environmental and regulatory pressures to reduce its reliance on peat. While the transition to non-peat casing materials is important for the long-term sustainability of mushroom production, changing casing materials may also alter the complex interactions between microbes, fungi, pests and mushroom crops.
Shauna’s research aims to understand these interactions and how they influence the mushroom production industry, helping to identify potential risks associated with the transition to peat-free production and support sustainable practices in the Irish mushroom industry. Her research involves investigating microbial communities in different casing materials and examining factors such as fungal disease and pest establishment.
Shauna has a background in biomedical science and previous research experience in microbiology, mycology and molecular biology. Before beginning her PhD, she worked as a Research Assistant at Trinity College Dublin, investigating antifungal resistance in environmental Aspergillus fumigatus across Ireland. This PhD project is allowing her to build on this experience while developing expertise in microbial ecology and applied agricultural research.
Teagasc email: shauna.reynolds@teagasc.ie
University email: shauna.reynolds.2022@mumail.ie
Teagasc Research Programme: Crops, Environment and Land Use Programme
Research Location: Teagasc Ashtown
University: Maynooth University
Teagasc Supervisor: Dr. Joy Clarke
University Supervisor: Prof. David Fitzpatrick
Funder: Teagasc