Hello! I’m Jason Raiti (or JZ). 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, particularly in tropical ecosystems. I’m interested in understanding how fungi interact with their environment and other organisms, and how these interactions shape biodiversity and ecosystem function. 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, co-authoring 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.