Research
Undergraduate-Driven Research in the Plant & Microbial Sciences
I have two primary research projects at AU:
​
1. The function of gamma-SNAPs, understudied vesicular trafficking proteins, in Arabidopsis growth and development.
​
2. Antagonistic interactions between phytopathogenic fungi and soil-dwelling bacteria.
​
These projects are investigated by undergraduate students through senior research, independent study, and course-based research experiences.
Understanding the role of gamma-SNAPS in Arabidopsis growth and development
Gamma-SNAPs are understudied proteins that function in vesicular trafficking of multicellular eukaryotes. Very little is known about the function of these proteins in any organism. Using a reverse genetic approach, we are investigating the role of gamma-SNAPS in Arabidopsis growth and development.
Student Projects
Carly Hackler| Independent Research | 2019-2020 | The role of gamma-SNAPs in Arabidopsis root growth | Accepted for presentation at Butler Undergraduate Research Conference, April 2020*
Discovering antagonisitc interactions between phytopathogenic fungi & soil-dwelling bacteria
Investigating the antagonistic interactions between phytopathogenic fungi and soil-dwelling bacteria has potential applications in the biological control of plant diseases. It also provides an interesting avenue to explore the world of microbial competition, antibiotic production, and microbial ecology. Utilizing the fungal collection at Anderson University and standard soil-dwelling bacterial species, we are identifying antagonistic interactions in vitro and in vivo.
Student Projects
BIOL3600 Plant Pathology CURE | Victoria Baver, Mallory Cloer, Katie Essick, Carly Hackler, Bryce Holt, Samantha Kagey | Spring 2020 | Investigating antagonism of Penicillium digitatum by soil-dwelling bacterial species.
​
Mallory Cloer | Independent Research | January 2020-December 2020 | Investigating bacterial antagonism of Fusarium app. by soil-dwelling bacteria
