Hello! I’m Jason Raiti. I’m currently pursuing a PhD in Botany at the University of Hawai´i Manoa in the Hynson Lab. My research focuses on the ecology and evolution of fungi. I’m interested in understanding how fungi interact with their environment and other organisms. I recently completed my MSc at UW–Madison, where I studied the morphology of Amanita spores in the Pringle Lab. My research integrates ecology, phylogenetics, and computational analysis, with a strong focus on science communication and fungal conservation. I also serve as a board member for the Madison Mycological Society, where I run our speaker series.
Prior to joining UW–Madison, I served as a board member of the Central Texas Mycological Society, where I led hands on workshops in low-tech mushroom cultivation. My work has included cultivating bioluminescent fungi in Brazil, coauthoring a paper on robotic water sampling for IROS, and contributing to NASA affiliated robotics projects, including an autonomous lunar rover and a space trash cleaning robot!
Outside of academia, I enjoy doing anything outdoors: hiking, foraging, surfing, etc. I also enjoy writing music and making art. I believe that creativity and science are deeply intertwined, and I strive to bring a sense of wonder and playfulness to everything I do.
If you're interested in fungi, research collaboration, or just want to chat, feel free to get in touch.