Project Description
The objective of this work is to determine the mechanisms important for plant colonization and symbiosis by Paraburkholderia phymatum. The nitrogen-fixing symbiotic associations between bacteria and legumes play a critical role in agricultural and environmental sustainability. The nodulating rhizobia belong to alpha and beta proteobacteria. The mechanisms of legume-rhizobial interactions is studied extensively in alpha rhizobia. In contrast, very little is known about the mechanisms important for nodulation by beta rhizobia though it is postulated that beta-rhizobia are more ancient that alpha-rhizobia. Research in my laboratory has determined that beta-rhizobia are not present in the agricultural soils of the Midwestern USA and that P. phymatum can nodulate its legume host in local soils. These results indicate that P. phymatum can out compete the native microbes for plant symbiosis providing a excellent model system to determine rhizobial-legume symbiosis in real-world environment as compared to the well-defined laboratory conditions. The aim of this research is to compare the mechanisms of P. phymatum-plant interactions in soil and laboratory conditions.
Tasks and Responsibilites
The student is expected to be diligent and be present in the laboratory for the stipulated time. The student will follow the standard protocols in the laboratory and maintain a written record of their work. The student is expected to interact and learn from other graduate students and maintain a cordial and supportive environment in the laboratory. The student will also take the required certifications to work in the laboratory (chemical hygiene and biosafety). Additionally, the student is expected to participate in laboratory meetings and present their research work.
Desired Qualifications
None listed.