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Kourtev, Peter

Professor

FACULTY

Biography

Dr. Kourtev is a professor of Biology at Central Michigan University

Our lab investigates interactions between invasive species and microorganisms and how these interactions might facilitate the invasive process. We are also studying the assembly and stability of microbial communities in aquatic systems, using pitcher plants as a model. In the context of these two systems, we are particularly interested in how microbial community composition and function are related to each other.

More about Peter Kourtev

  • Zlamal, J. and Kourtev, P.S. (2008). Impact of the invasive plant autumn olive ( Elaeagnus umbellata) on soil microbial communities. Biol. Inv.
  • Weaver, M. and Kourtev, P.S. (2008). Characterization of the bacterial community in the pitchers of the northern pitcher plant ( Sarracenia purpurea) using PCR-DGGE. Microb. Ecol.
  • Kourtev, P.S., Konopka, A. and Nakatsu, C.H. (2008) Inhibition of nitrate reduction by Cr(VI) in soil microcosms. Appl. Environ. Microbiol.
  • Hill, K.A., Shepson, P.B., Galbavy, E.S., Anastasio, C., Kourtev, P.S., Konopka, A. and Stirm, B.H. (2007). Processing of atmospheric nitrogen by clouds above a forest environment. J. Geophys. Res-Atmos., 112: D11301.
  • Kourtev, P.S., Konopka, A. and Nakatsu, C.H. (2006). Responses of the anaerobic bacterial community to the addition of organic C in chromium(VI)- and iron(III)-amended microcosms Appl. Environ. Microbiol., 72: 628-637. ​
  • B.S., Sofia University, Sofia, Bulgaria, 1994
  • Ph.D., Rutgers University, 2001
  • Posdoctoral Position, Cook College, Rutgers University, 2001-2002
  • Posdoctoral Position, Purdue University, 2002-2006
  • Microbial Communities

Current research projects

I am interested in the the structure of microbial communities, how they are shaped by a variety of biotic and abiotic factors and how they are related to microbial community functions.

My applied research program has been in these areas:
  • Microbial community in the rhizosphere of invasive plant species
  • Interactions between microbial communities and toxic metals
  • Microbial diversity in the gut of wild ruminants
  • Microbial diversity in the pitchers of the Northern pitcher plant ( Sarracenia purpurea)
  • Isolating previously uncultured bacteria

Courses Taught

  • Introductory Biology
  • Introduction to Microbiology
  • Soil Science
  • Bacterial Diversity
  • Global Change Biology