Krishna K. Niyogi
Biologist Senior Faculty Scientist
Research Interests
My long-term research goals are to understand how photosynthetic energy conversion works, how it is regulated, and how it might be improved to help meet the world’s needs for food and fuel. We use a wide array of experimental organisms and interdisciplinary approaches to investigate fundamental questions about assembly, regulation, and dynamics of photosynthesis. Current lab members study the biosynthesis and function of photosynthetic pigments, assembly and repair of photosynthetic reaction centers, structure and dynamics of the photosynthetic membrane, mechanisms involved in sensing excess light, singlet oxygen signaling, transcriptional regulation of photosynthesis and photoprotection by light and carbon, and regulation of photosynthetic light harvesting in saturating light. By comparing how photosynthesis works in diverse organisms, we hope to uncover general design principles of natural photosynthesis as well as unique adaptations to different environments.
Recent Publications
Related News
How Algae Use Memory to Adapt to Sudden Changes in Sunlight
A new study co-led by Graham Fleming a senior faculty scientist in the Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging (MBIB) Division, and Krishna Niyogi, a faculty scientist in MBIB, reveals the precise molecular machinery that underpins photoprotective memory in green algae. The results may help scientists develop more productive plants and improve crop yields.
Bioscientists to Receive DOE Funding for Biomanufacturing and Microbiome Research
Biosciences researchers are among the recipients of four new DOE awards. Two awards will focus on reducing carbon emissions while producing bioenergy. The other two are aimed at understanding the role of microbiomes in the biogeochemical cycling of elements like carbon.
Biosciences Area Scientists Talk Diatoms in Genome Insider Podcast
In the latest episode of JGI's monthly podcast, Genome Insider, Alison Takemura interviews Setsuko Wakao and Kris Niyogi, biologists at UC Berkeley and in Berkeley Lab's Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging (MBIB) Division. In this 20-minute episode, they discuss their research on a tiny group of algae with insanely gorgeous exterior shells.
