Brief overview of research activities

Research in my lab is focused on citrus genetics, genomics, and breeding, with the goal of understanding the genetic basis of traits relevant for citrus production and utilizing that knowledge to support the development of new cultivars. A major research focus is Huanglongbing (HLB) disease, where we investigate the genetic mechanisms of HLB tolerance and work toward breeding HLB-tolerant citrus cultivars. We integrate genetic and genomic information to support breeding by hybridization and to inform gene-editing to improve widely grown cultivars. 

Brief overview of the talk

Due to their long generation time and restricted growing regions, perennial crops are especially susceptible to rapid shifts in the environment, including the introduction of exotic pests and pathogens. This scenario is unraveling in real time as citrus is currently faced with a major threat from an invasive pathogen and its continued cultivation in many growing regions around the world is in serious jeopardy. The major current focus of improvement efforts is the incorporation of tolerance or resistance to citrus greening, or Huanglongbing disease. In the context of this ongoing crisis, I will discuss current strategies used to facilitate new variety development in citrus through both genetic and gene-editing efforts.