Research in the Gdanetz MacCready lab exists at the intersections of plant pathology, microbial ecology, and plant biology. We are working to test concepts established in model systems in field settings, focusing on cereals such as barley, oats, and wheat. Current research projects include: classify microbiome response of rhizosphere and phyllosphere to plants subjected to abiotic stress and/or pathogen infection; determine genetic component of microbiome response and function; determine how microbial responses differ across diverse host plant genotypes; understand the role of host cell wall and carbohydrate composition in microbial community assembly. Pathogen systems of interest include Xanthomonas spp., Pseudomonas spp., and Fusarium graminearum. Outcomes of this research will allow for identification of organisms and processes that can be manipulated to improve host plant resilience and improve quality and yields of cereal crops.