Science Leader Gains "Out of this World" Recognition

OLYMPIA, Wash., Sept. 29, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Paul Stamets, Founder, Owner and Chief Science Officer for Fungi Perfecti has received an accolade not normally seen in the Natural Products world. Paul is the inspiration for a character by the same name, Lt. Paul Stamets, on the new Star Trek series, Star Trek: Discovery. The character of Lieutenant Stamets is an AstroMycologist who utilizes mushroom mycelium and the study of mushrooms (aka Mycology) as a Starfleet Science Officer.

Star Trek has used real people to inspire character names in the past. Captain Jean-Luc Picard's name, for example, was based on the Swiss physicist and explorer Auguste Piccard. Using the person's exact name and their profession, as in this case, is unique.

The real Paul Stamets summed up the significance this way. "We have affectionately called our company StarShip FP for decades. Being a Star Trek fan since I was a kid, this is a huge honor. Mostly, I am proud that the field of Mycology will become front and center in the imaginations of young people. I hope Star Trek: Discovery will herald in new generations of mycologists for decades."

"Mycology is under-funded, under-utilized and has not been recognized by thought leaders for the critical roles fungal networks - mycelium - fulfill in helping habitats, protecting biodiversity and steering sustainability. A new epoch is emerging as we explore the Mycoverse."

For years, Paul and Fungi Perfecti have pushed the envelope of mycological research and discovery. From bioremediation to human health to a sustainable food supply, the attention towards Mycology has increased over the years with help from both Fungi Perfecti and the support of the Natural Products community. This Star Trek series, however, now brings Mycology to the mainstream in a significant way. It will support the recognition of fungi as catalysts for a healthier planet and people.

The first episode of Star Trek: Discovery aired on CBS September 24, 2017, 8:30 pm ET. Subsequent episodes will air on CBS's streaming platform, CBS All Access. Over 180 countries outside the US will stream the program via Netflix. 

ABOUT FUNGI PERFECTI

Fungi Perfecti® is a family-owned, environmentally friendly company specializing in using mushrooms to improve the health of the planet and its people. Founded by mycologist and author Paul Stamets in 1980, we are leaders in a new wave of technologies harnessing the inherent power of mushrooms and mycelium worldwide. Fungi Perfecti is Certified Organic by the Washington State Department of Agriculture.  

SOURCE Fungi Perfecti

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