Westerdijk Institute

The Westerdijk Institute (pronounced: West-er-dike Institute) is a renowned research institute specializing in mycology, the study of fungi. It is named after the Dutch plant pathologist and mycologist, Johanna Westerdijk, who was the first female professor in the Netherlands.

Etymology

The Westerdijk Institute is named after Johanna Westerdijk (pronounced: Yo-ha-na West-er-dike), a pioneering Dutch mycologist and the first female professor in the Netherlands. She made significant contributions to the field of mycology, particularly in the study of fungal diseases in plants.

History

The Westerdijk Institute was originally established as the 'Central Bureau for Fungus Cultures' in 1904. It was later renamed in honor of Johanna Westerdijk, who served as its director from 1906 until her retirement in 1952. The institute has since continued to be a leading center for mycological research and maintains one of the world's largest collections of living fungi.

Research

The Westerdijk Institute conducts extensive research in the field of mycology, with a particular focus on fungal biodiversity, evolution, and the role of fungi in disease. The institute's research has contributed to advancements in various fields, including agriculture, medicine, and environmental science.

Collections

The Westerdijk Institute houses one of the world's largest collections of living fungi, known as the Fungal Biodiversity Centre. This collection includes over 100,000 strains of fungi, yeasts, and bacteria, and is used by researchers worldwide.

Related Terms

Mycology: The scientific study of fungi.
Fungi: A group of eukaryotic organisms that includes microorganisms such as yeasts and molds, as well as the more familiar mushrooms.
Johanna Westerdijk: A Dutch plant pathologist and mycologist, and the first female professor in the Netherlands.
Research Institute: An establishment endowed for doing research.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Westerdijk Institute
Wikipedia's article - Westerdijk Institute

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Westerdijk Institute