We use quantitative genetics, QTL and association mapping, genome editing, bioinformatics, marker-assisted selection, and image based phenotyping to address research questions around disease resistance in rosaceous fruits. Currently, our research focuses on understanding the underlying mechanisms of disease resistance in apples and developing strategies to speed up development of varieties with improved fire blight and apple scab resistance. We are also developing methods for high-throughput plant resistance phenotyping and rapid detection of pathogens directly in the orchards. One of our interests is to explore the molecular and physiological basis of the relationship between adventitious roots of apple rootstock and disease susceptibility of apple scion cultivars.
For more information on each project, follow the links below.