Anita Antoninka is an affiliate of the Center for Adaptable Western Landscapes. She is also an assistant research professor in the School of Forestry. Anita’s area of interest is plant and soil ecology, with a current focus on dryland restoration. Mainly, she works on plant/soil interactions, with specific interest in biocrusts and mycorrhizae. She has authored or co-authored more than 30 peer-reviewed publications. Additionally, Anita has mentored 9 graduate students and numerous undergraduate students. She was awarded the School of Forestry’s Researcher of the Year for 2019.