Dr. Blum?s current research focuses on how microorganisms bring about geomorphologic changes in salt marshes. Her research includes a long-term interest in the linkage between microbial community spatial patterns and processes, and microbe-plant interactions. Dr. Blum was previously the chair of the NRC Panel to Review the the Department of Interior's Critical Ecosystem Studies Initiative, a member of the Committee on Restoration of the Greater Everglades Ecosystem, and a previous and current member of the Committee on Independent Review of Everglades Restoration Progress. She earned a B.S. and M.S. in forestry from Michigan Technological University and a Ph.D. in soil science and microbial ecology from Cornell University.