Welcome to the Flint-Garcia Lab

Using Genetics, Genomics, and Breeding to Understand Agronomic Traits in Maize

The Flint-Garcia lab is interested in several aspects of genetic diversity in maize. Artificial selection has impacted maize diversity during its domestication from teosinte (Zea mays ssp.parviglumis) to landraces, and during plant breeding from landraces to modern inbred lines. One specific area of research is examining the impact of artificial selection on kernel composition, including protein, oil, starch, and amino acid content. A more broad interest is diversifying the genetic base of maize by utilizing landraces and teosinte.