Dr. Renate Heinzelmann

I am investigating different native and introduced forest pathogens. I am aiming to understand how fungal pathogens interact with their hosts, but also with other microorganisms. In addition, I want to understand how forest pathogens spread locally and globally. Ultimately, my research works towards the development of innovative management strategies to handle forest pathogens with the aim to the improve forest health.

Current research:

• Interaction of ash dieback caused by Hymenoscyphus fraxineus with Armillaria root rot (Armillaria spp.) and how these two diseases impact the stability of common ash (Fraxinus excelsior)
• Tracing the spread of Phytophthora ramorum in Europe and North America using genomic tools
• Resolving the population structure and dynamics of Dothistroma septosporum in British Columbia as well as globally using genome sequencing

I also enjoy working with students and interacting with local stakeholders.

• 2024 - today - Scientific staff member
  Phytopathology group, Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL
• 2021 - 2023 - Postdoc
  Phytopathology group, Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL
• 2017 - 2021 - Postdoc
  Department of Forest and Conservation Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
• 2017 - Doctor of Sciences
  Doctor of Sciences (Dr. sc. ETH Zurich), ETH Zurich
• 2012 - Master of Science
  Master of Science ETH in Biology (MSc ETH Biology), ETH Zurich