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1. AI and Genomics: This is a relatively new area of research that we are exploring. We are fine-tuning the innovative application of artificial intelligence algorithms to classify multidimensional spatial transcriptomics datasets (histology and sequencing data) for the discovery and validation of tissue-specific critical genes/target-hubs expressed during plant-pathogen interaction. Current model: Wheat-Fusarium graminearum, Barley-Stem rust.
2. Soybean Pathology: This is the translational component of my research program. My group prioritizes stakeholder's need for field identification of disease pressure, studies the pathogen population diversity using ONT long-read sequencing and validates effector functions using heterologous transient expression systems. Current models: Soybean-Sclerotinia and Fusarium pathogens.
3. RNAi Biofungicides: Transformative component of my research program. We are developing RNAi targets and collaborating with expert groups to create and test highly efficient bio-vehicles for delivering these targets. Current model: Soybean-Sclerotinia and Fusarium pathogen, Wheat-FHB.
4. Soil Microbiome and Plant Health: This is the collaborative component of my research program. We study and optimize soil microbiomes to enhance plant nutrient utilization and suppress disease in collaboration with our field Agronomists. Current model: Winter wheat, Soybean, Corn.
5. Plant Immune Receptor Evolution: This is an established component of my research program with a broader aim of uncovering the role of abiotic stimuli and biotic selection pressure on immunity receptor evolution. We investigate how pathogen selection pressure and prevailing temperature regimes influence the function and evolution of plant immune receptors. Current model: Wheat/barley- Stem rust.

Area of technical expertise:

Functional genomics, molecular biology, spatial transcriptomics, advanced imaging, plant pathology.

Currently active (as PI):

1. CRImSON Receptors: Elucidating the relationship between biotic and abiotic interaction interplay driving the plant immunity receptor evolution to develop synthetic climate resilient immune sensitivity optimized NLRs. ³ÉÈËÊÓƵ-CAFES Jackrabbit jumpstart program, FY25-26.
2. Building ³ÉÈËÊÓƵ’s capacity in spatial genomics using cereal crop Fusarium graminearum as a model to acquire federal funding in plant biotic interaction. ³ÉÈËÊÓƵ-RSCA, FY25-26.
3. Addressing the Problem of Soybean White Mold Disease in South Dakota. South Dakota Soybean Research and Promotion Council, FY24-27.
4. Harnessing soil microbiome and its enzymatic properties for sustainably improving corn nutrient absorption and disease resistance capacity. South Dakota Corn Utilization Council, FY25-28.
5. Assessment of mid-late season foliar diseases of soybean. South Dakota Soybean Research and Promotion Council, FY25-27.

As CoPI : 4