The Accidental Protozoologist—My Journey Through the World of Ciliates^1,2

Abstract

The Past-President's Address has been the opportunity for the speaker to reminisce about the road traveled to get to this time in life. In this paper, I continue in that tradition. During my journey to the present day, I visited different laboratories, studying the genetics of mating and mating types in Paramecium, Tetrahymena, Blepharisma and Euplotes. I have met and worked with many distinguished scientists, including other Past-Presidents of the Society. I also became an active participant in the Society of Protozoologists. I hope the recounting of my trip will be both entertaining and enlightening.

Past‐President address: My journey in microbial ecology—footprints in the sand, island hopping, supply chains, and technology bridges

“…In looking back at the journey, the supply chain in my career has also included changes in the conceptual framework for my research studies, converging with a continuous flow of ideas and support from colleagues and mentors. As Lea Bleyman described in her ISOP Past-Presidential address 20 years ago, her career represented a "journey through the world of ciliates" (Bleyman, 2005). To illustrate the complex map of ideas and supporters, this paper will examine technological advances, paradigm shifts in ecological constructs, geographical considerations, breakthroughs in peritrich biology, and the importance of an integrated perspective as we navigate the changing realities.…”