We work on the evolution, ecology and systematics of lichen symbioses and closely related non-mutualistic fungi. I am specifically focused on evolutionary transitions: from saprophytes to symbionts, from symbionts to pathogens, and from simple biofilms to large, 3D lichen thalli. We use genomics and transcriptomics as well as a diverse microscopy toolbox to explore interactions at a cellular level. I am also very interested in the diversity of Alberta's lichens and tying our work back to regional questions of conservation importance.