Scott Otto

Graduate Student

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About

Scott received a Bachelor of Science from Southern Illinois University–Edwardsville, where he studied pollution ecology and environmental policy with an emphasis on the Endangered Species Act. His undergraduate research focused on the role of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in prairie restoration, sparking a lifelong interest in plant–fungal interactions. Before pursuing graduate studies, he worked in the water rights sector in Wyoming, where he developed a deeper appreciation for the importance of sustainable resource management in water limited systems. His current research investigates how root traits and mycorrhizal fungi respond to climate extremes in semi-arid grasslands. He is particularly interested in linking root structure and symbiotic fungal relationships to better understand belowground plant responses to environmental stress. His work aims to improve predictions of ecosystem resilience under future climate scenarios. In his free time, he enjoys hiking (especially with his dog, Nebula), playing tennis and golf, and exploring new board games.

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