PhD (2018); MS (2011)

Current Position

Microbiologist, Conagra Brands, Chicago, IL

Education

BA, Biology, University of Missouri

Research Interests

The main focus of his project was to gain an understanding of the physiological and biochemical responses of root growth in the model system Zea mays under water deficit. Specifically,  investigating the role of ethylene (an important phytohormone) and its interaction with the accumulation of ROS (reactive oxygen species) which include hydrogen peroxide, hydroxyl radicals and oxygen ions using the ABA-deficient mutant vp14 (viviparous 14). Previous Sharp lab research has shown that ABA (abscisic acid) accumulates in the primary root elongation zone under water deficit and this accumulation aids in root growth maintenance. The Sharp lab has also shown that under severe water stress ABA-deficient Zea mays plants have increased levels of ethylene and ROS (which may be involved in plant cell damage and plasma membrane integrity in the root growth zone). Thus, further investigation of these findings will help to gain insight on the biochemical processes/mechanisms of root growth under water deficit, and assist in the potential genetic manipulation to facilitate improving overall yield of plants.