We are currently working on three major projects (below) and a variety of smaller projects.

Development of a reverse genetic tool for Phytophthora.  The project is based on the TILLING (targeting induced local lesions in genomes) strategy developed with Arabidopsis.  Our objectives are to adapt this approach to Phytophthora and to develop an educational program highlighting the importance of small genetic lesions (single nucleotide polymorphisms, SNP's) in living organisms.  

Population resource and genome sequence of the vegetable pathogen Phytophthora capsici.  Includes (i) sequencing an inbred isolate of P. capsici to 2X coverage via shotgun sequencing through the Joint Genome Institute Community Sequencing Program (JGI-CSP), (ii) 20-30X coverage of the same isolate and (iii) 2X coverage of four additional outbred isolates using a novel high throughput sequencing approach from the company 454 Life Sciences.

Characterization of genes expressed by Phytophthora sojae during the earliest time points in infection.  This project includes gene discovery using fabricated arrays, confirmation of candidate genes using real time PCR, and finally, disruption using the Tilling tool.