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What We Do

Our lab uses functional genomic approaches to dissect complex traits in maize, biofuel grasses, and grapes. We exploit the natural diversity of these plant genomes to identify the individual nucleotides responsible for complex (quantitative) variation.

Currently, our research focuses on developing germplasm resources for complex trait dissection, using genomics to characterize this diversity, dissect a series of traits (drought tolerance, nitrogen use,  basic development, carbon metabolism, vitamin A and E content), and provide software tools for analysis. The tools we are developing may also be used as a template system for other genetics research, including research for other crops, animals, and even human genetics.

Maize Matters

Corn is arguably the most significant crop in the world.  In 2009, 817 million metric tons of maize was grown worldwide – far more than any other grain (FAO).  It is the primary food source for both humans and livestock in many regions around the globe.  Moreover, Maize is incredibly genetically diverse.  This astounding diversity has enabled corn to be adapted to vastly different growing regions and purposes.

 
Our Research Interests

Genotyping by Sequencing
Germplasm Development
SNP Discovery
Nitrogen Metabolism
Aluminum Tolerance
Vitamin A (Carotenoids)
Flowering Time
Statistical Genetics
Diversity Informatics
Phenotyping Tools
Drought Tolerance
Evolution & Domestication
Grape Diversity
Switchgrass Diversity

 

 
Recent Publications

The GBS Methods paper was published May 4th by PLoS One. Check it out here. If you are interested in our weeklong GBS training sessions, details of our next open session will be posted here.

Our three most recent papers are:

 

Quick Links:

Genotyping by Sequencing

 

Bioinformatics:


GBS Bioinformatics
TASSEL
GDPC
PANZEA (Maize SNPs and Phenotypes)

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