Alison Roberts

Dr Alison Roberts is an Honorary Reader and Researcher in the School of Biology at the University of St Andrews. Her research focuses on plant-virus interactions, particularly mechanisms of resistance in crops like potatoes against pathogens such as Potato Virus Y and Potato Mop-top Virus. She investigates molecular processes including phloem transport dynamics, tuberization regulation, and how viruses exploit host stress signaling pathways for systemic movement. Her work combines genetic analysis, protein interactions, and cellular biology to understand fundamental plant defense mechanisms and viral pathogenesis strategies.

Key publications highlight her contributions to understanding:

• Mature plant resistance (MPR) limitations in tuber protection
• Role of TERMINAL FLOWER-1 in tuberigen activation
• Co-option of HIPP26 stress signaling by Potato Mop-top Virus
• Chloroplast association with viral components during infection

Dr Roberts maintains active collaborations with institutions studying plant virology and crop protection, contributing to both theoretical and applied aspects of plant pathology research.