We aim to develop regeneration and tissue culture protocols for tree species. Ash trees (Fraxinus spp.), particularly those threatened by pests like the emerald ash borer (EAB), face significant population declines in North American forests. Tissue culture enables the rapid propagation of large numbers of trees, supporting reforestation and conservation efforts. Additionally, the development of regeneration protocols established a foundation for genetic transformation aimed at improving desirable tree traits. 

Genetic engineering of forest trees is a promising approach to address challenges, particularly those posed by invasive pests, diseases, and environmental stressors. Our research focuses on the development of transgenic trees through the introduction of genes that confer desirable traits, such as resistance to insect and tolerance to heat or drought. Additionally, we explore plant synthetic biology approaches to develop synthetic inducible promoters that enable precise spatiotemporal regulation of transgene expression.

Beneficial microbes offer a range of advantages, including promoting plant growth and enhancing plant tolerance to environmental stressors, such as heat and drought. Understanding how plant and microbes interact, establish symbiosis, and communicate at the molecular level is essential for harnessing these natural processes to improve plant health and resilience. Specifically, our lab is investigating the role of the proteasome and its associated proteins as a fine-tuning mechanisms in determining the estabilishment of symbiosis or the activation of defense responses.