For more than 45 years, Susan Kilham, PhD, professor in the Department of Biodiversity, Earth and Environmental Science, has been a leading figure in the field of phycology, or the study of algae. Specializing in diatoms — a unicellular form of algae that lives anywhere water is found — Kilham has advanced the field as a mentor to numerous scientists and as the author of nearly 100 publications in high-profile journals and books. Her groundbreaking research on the relationship between species’ coexistence and resource utilization led to fundamental advances in community theory. In honor of her record of sustained scholarly activity, teaching and service, Kilham was presented with the Phycological Society of America’s career achievement award, the PSA Award of Excellence.