We’re beyond proud to celebrate Dr. Anna Garrell, who successfully defended her Ph.D. in Microbiology on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, becoming the first Ph.D. graduate from the Kleiner Lab!
Anna’s dissertation, titled “Dissecting Plant-Microbe and Microbe-Microbe Interactions in the Maize Root Microbiome,” explored the complex relationships between plants and their microbial communities, advancing our understanding of root-associated microbiomes and their ecological functions.
Her defense seminar took place in 3503 Thomas Hall (Stephens Room), and was followed by a joyful celebration featuring cake, a champagne (and sparkling cider!) toast, and lots of lab cheer.
Anna’s dedication, creativity, and scientific rigor have left a lasting mark on the lab. We’re so excited to see where her career takes her next—congratulations again, Dr. Garrell!
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