Dr Yola Metti

Dr Yola Metti is a distinguished expert in algal research and curation, serving as the Leader of Collection Curation at the Australian Botanic Garden Mt Annan, home to the National Herbarium of NSW.

Yola's journey into the world of algae began after her first scuba diving lessons on the west coast of Canada during her early university days. Her curiosity and deep interest in seaweeds led her to pursue a career dedicated to understanding and preserving these fascinating marine organisms.

Her formal education includes a PhD in phycology, as well as two postdoctoral fellowships focusing on red algae phylogenetics and taxonomy. This strong academic background has prepared her for the diverse responsibilities at the herbarium.

At the National Herbarium of NSW, Yola is responsible for managing a team that curates over 1 million specimens. This encompasses a wide range of tasks, from arranging and organising collections to overseeing incoming and outgoing loans. As a specialist in phylogenetics and taxonomy of algae, Yola also plays a key role in identifying seaweeds and ensuring the scientific accuracy of the herbarium's collections.

Work days for Yola are anything but ordinary. They can involve managing the curation team, handling urgent loans from around the world, accepting donations, identifying seaweeds, reviewing scientific papers, or even conducting tours for visiting researchers. Her leadership and expertise ensure the smooth operation of the herbarium's extensive collection, which includes pressed samples, liquid-preserved specimens, and an increasing number of DNA tissue samples.

Beyond her technical skills, Yola finds immense satisfaction in supporting her team and caring for the herbarium's vast collection. Her enthusiasm for seaweeds is evident in her dedication to the field, her numerous publications, and her commitment of over 20 years at the National Herbarium of NSW. Yola's favourite plants are the new seaweeds she discovered and published.