Queer Mycology

This virtual talk by mycologist Patty Kaishian approaches the field of mycology through a theoretical framework rooted in queer and feminist theories, as well as philosophy of science and traditional ecological knowledge. The goal of this work is to challenge, push, and explore central tenets of institutional science, and to socially and historically situate current research dilemmas in mycology.

Dr. Patricia Kaishian’s research focuses on fungal taxonomy, diversity, evolution, symbiosis, and ecology, particularly of the less-studied fungal groups, such as the insect-associated Laboulbeniales. She is a co-founder of the International Congress of Armenian Mycologists, which seeks to jointly protect Armenian sovereignty and biodiversity. Patricia also studies philosophy of science, feminist bioscience, and queer theory, exploring how mycology and other scientific disciplines are situated in and informed by our sociopolitical landscape. Her work, The Science Underground: Mycology as a Queer Discipline, appears in Catalyst: Feminism, Theory, Technoscience. Her forthcoming book, Forest Euphoria, will be published by Milkweed Editions. This virtual talk is hosted by the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania, as part of the Tuesday Night Nature Virtual Speaker Series.