
Aziz Turkoglu is a mycology professor, currently Affiliate Professor at University of Washington School of Environmental and Forest Sciences. He operates Alpine Truffle, LLC as a truffle specialist.
BACKGROUND
With over 15 years of experience in funded research on plant-mycorrhizal fungi interactions, I specialize in bridging scientific discovery with practical innovation in sustainable agriculture. My deep expertise in truffle cultivation, shaped by advanced studies in Italy and France, focuses on developing resilient agroecosystems that support both biodiversity and long-term productivity.
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I founded the James Trappe National Truffle Institute to honor Dr. Trappe’s legacy and advance applied mycology through access to his extensive donated library. My work has pioneered the successful cultivation of French Périgord truffles in the Pacific Northwest and the ecological restoration of native Garry oak ecosystems using mycorrhizal truffle inoculation—efforts that not only enhance soil health and native habitats but also open new economic pathways for farmers. Currently, I lead truffle research at the University of Washington’s Pack Forest, coordinate the Mycology Certificate Program at The Evergreen State College, and run Alpine Truffle LLC. Through this integrative approach—combining academic research, education, and entrepreneurial application—I remain committed to transforming truffle science into scalable, climate-resilient farming solutions that support sustainable land use and rural development.


