My laboratory is focused on studying plant secondary metabolism and how these compounds control the biology of the plant. This includes studying how plant secondary metabolites control plant interactions with insects and fungi. We are currently investigating how secondary metabolites such as glucosinolates, phenylpropanoids and alkaloids control plant/fungal interactions in both Tomato and the model Arabidopsis. These same compounds are both phytonutrients and flavor determinants in cruciferous vegetables and fresh and processed tomato. We are currently in the process of investigating various Tomato populations to characterize the genetics controlling the accumulation of these compounds and plan to use these same populations to test how the compounds control the sensory and nutrient characteristics of the resulting fruit. This research involves a multi-disciplinary approach involving genetics and biochemistry.

Curriculum Vitae

Research Slides