Our research focuses on developing a better understanding of the mechanisms that regulate seed development and associated end-use quality in wheat, related cereals, and model Brassicaceae. The plant seed, comprised of the endosperm and embryo, develop in an ordered sequence that is poorly understood at the molecular level. Seed and endosperm development also have the dynamic capacity to alter their temporal development and maturation pattern in response to heat stress and other environmental and biotic cues and stresses. In human terms, this modulation in seed development often, however, adversely impacts grain end-use quality and yield. Our research uses genomics, proteomics, plant physiology and cell biology to characterize the genes and signaling molecules that operate between neighboring seed and distal maternal tissues to regulate seed development, nuclear endosperm cellularization, maturation and their temporal modulation in response to adverse abiotic and biotic stresses in cereals and Brassicaceae, This research creates a foundation for developing wheat and cereal varieties with outstanding grain yield and quality for traditional end-uses and novel high value identity preserved markets adapted to the unique environmental challenges faced by Texas producers.
Courses at the graduate level are designed to educate students in the broad subject of plant physiology. This course prepares students for careers in industry and academic education and research.
Research and Teaching Website