Paola Bonfante
Papers
1
Total Citations
184
H-Index
1
About
Paola Bonfante is a pioneering plant biologist whose work has fundamentally reshaped our understanding of the hidden conversations between plants and soil microbes. Her research centers on the molecular and cellular mechanisms of mycorrhizal symbiosis—the ancient, beneficial partnership between plant roots and fungi that sustains most terrestrial ecosystems. Bonfante’s major contributions include elucidating how fungi deliver phosphorus and nitrogen to plants in exchange for carbon, and identifying the key genetic pathways that enable this mutualism. With over 184 citations on her influential 2019 paper “The urgent need for microbiology literacy in society,” she has also become a powerful advocate for integrating microbial science into public awareness and education. Her work has been recognized with prestigious awards, including membership in the European Molecular Biology Organization and the Italian Academy of Sciences. For students and researchers, Bonfante’s career exemplifies how deep curiosity about the microscopic world can yield transformative insights into agriculture, ecology, and global sustainability.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1The urgent need for microbiology literacy in society184 citations · 2019