Research Interests

Investigating the role of nutrients and exometabolites in plant-microbe interactions.

The effective use of natural resources will require the growth of bioenergy crops on marginal soils with minimal input of synthetic N fertilizers. Studies have shown that root exudation is critical in attracting beneficial soil microbiomes. However, the full impact of exometabolites on plant-microbe interactions and N cycling in the rhizosphere remains poorly understood. To shed light on these dynamic processes, I utilize stable isotope techniques, metabolomics, and model grasses grown in fabricated ecosystems (EcoFABs). By deciphering the mechanisms behind grass-microbe interactions, my research aims to develop predictive models, identify new breeding targets, and explore microbial amendment strategies that can enhance plant nitrogen use efficiency.

Selected Publications

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