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Welcome to the Plant Science Research Unit.
We are located on the campus of the University of Minnesota, St. Paul
Breeding of alfalfa focuses on increasing fiber digestibility, root architecture, winter survival, and as a protein source for human foods.
Using universal DNA markers, we are developing tools for alfalfa breeders to increase resistance to root rot diseases and identify the underlying resistance genes.
CRISPR/Cas is being used to modify crop characteristics and to characterize genes in soybean, alfalfa, and other legume crops.
Using metagenomics approaches we are characterizing core alfalfa microbiomes and engineering disease suppressive microbiomes.
Large scale field experiments are evaluating trade-offs in forage quality, productivity, and field carbon balance.
The unit coordinates the uniform hard red spring wheat regional nursery.
Bacterial stem blight of alfalfa is an emerging disease of concern affecting forage yield and stand persistence.
Mission:
The mission of the unit is to increase productivity and utilization of alfalfa, soybean, wheat, and oat through basic and applied research.
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