Bingyu Zhao

Synopsis:

Dr. Zhao's research program focuses on improving plant disease resistance by integrationg plant breeding, genomics, and biotechnology approaches. He currently teach both plant breeding and plant pathology related courses within the school.

Description:

Dr. Zhao's laboratory works on the molecular plant-microbe interactions using pepper (Xanthomonas euvesicatoria) and watermelon (Acidovorax citrulli) as two model plant-pathogen systems.

His lab has also worked on the genetic improvement of switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) in an effort to improve biofuel-related traits and resistance to both abiotic and biotic stress. 

Another on-going project is the manipulation of Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs) to help improve plant health/production under a controlled-environment.