Wendy A Peer

Dr. Wendy A Peer is an Associate Professor in the Department of Environmental Science & Technology at the University of Maryland's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. She leads the Physiology and Genetics Laboratory, where her team investigates plant biochemistry, genetics, and physiology with a focus on auxin regulation, flavonoid functions, and plant-environment interactions. Her educational background includes a PhD in Biology from UC Santa Cruz and dual BS degrees in Chemistry and Biology from California State University, Bakersfield.

Her research explores plant growth mechanisms through biochemistry, live-cell imaging, and genetic analysis. Key interests include auxin homeostasis, metal-center proteins, plant growth regulators, and specialized metabolites like flavonoids. Current projects examine symbiosis, invasive species biology, yeast applications, and grain quality enhancement.

Publications since 2016 reveal strong thematic focus on hormonal regulation (particularly auxin catabolism and transport), biomass conversion, nutrient management, and flavonoid biochemistry. Recent work (2021-2025) extends into oxidative processes, theoretical biology, and corrigenda for prior genetic studies.

Dr. Peer actively mentors students in her lab, with recent publications featuring 12+ advisees. Her teaching portfolio includes courses on plant physiology, yeast biology, membrane biology, and integrative capstone projects. The Physiology and Genetics Lab emphasizes hypothesis-driven approaches to plant development and environmental responses.