Find Academic Supervisors

• Maize Genetics
• Plant Breeding
• Disease Resistance
• +5 more

Tiffany M Jamann is an Associate Professor in Crop Sciences at the University of Illinois, where she holds the Monsanto Fellowship in Plant Breeding. Her research program focuses on understanding and improving disease resistance mechanisms in maize through integrated genetic, genomic, and phenotypic approaches. Dr. Jamann's work spans multiple disease systems with particular emphasis on foliar diseases such as Northern Leaf Blight and ear diseases like Gibberella ear rot. Her research interests include: Quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping for disease resistance in maize Development of near-isogenic line populations for gene discovery Comparative studies of resistance mechanisms across different pathosystems Investigation of pattern-triggered immunity in maize Standardization of pathogen inoculation and disease rating methodologies Analysis of Dr. Jamann's recent publications (2023-2025) reveals a strategic integration of traditional plant breeding with cutting-edge genomic approaches. Her work demonstrates increasing use of comparative genomics and transcriptomics to identify host-specificity genes in pathogens while maintaining strong focus on practical breeding applications. A notable trend is her development of standardized methodologies for pathogen inoculation across multiple disease systems, enabling more reliable resistance evaluation. Monsanto Fellow in Plant Breeding Multiple publications featured in news outlets and academic discussions Active research with significant social media engagement (46 X users mentioning her work) Dr. Jamann's research program likely involves extensive collaboration with other plant pathologists and breeders, as evidenced by her numerous co-authored publications. Her work on multi-environment trials suggests substantial field research across different geographical locations. The development of specialized maize germplasm, including near-isogenic lines, indicates long-term investment in genetic resources for disease resistance research. Her laboratory maintains sophisticated capabilities for pathogen characterization, high-throughput phenotyping using fluorescence microscopy, and genetic mapping approaches. The emphasis on both fundamental plant-pathogen interactions and applied crop improvement demonstrates a research program that bridges basic science with practical agricultural outcomes.

• Animal Biotechnology
• Molecular Biology
• In-Vitro Cell Culture
• +5 more

Mahipal Singh is a Professor of Animal Biotechnology and Coordinator of the Animal Science Undergraduate Program at Fort Valley State University (FVSU), where he is affiliated with the College of Agriculture, Family Sciences and Technology and the Department of Agricultural Sciences. He has been at FVSU since 2000 in various capacities, progressing from Adjunct Biology/MPH Graduate Faculty to his current position as full Professor since 2019. Dr. Singh earned his educational credentials in India: a B.S. (Hons) in Zoology from Meerut College (1978), an M.S. in Zoology from the Institute of Advanced Studies, Meerut University (1983), and a Ph.D. in Zoology-Microbiology from Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi (1989). His academic journey included prestigious appointments such as International Visiting Fellow at the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, NIH (1991-1993) and Postdoctoral Fellow at the Medical University of South Carolina (1989-1991). His research focuses on cutting-edge areas of animal biotechnology, particularly in postmortem cell recovery, genome editing in livestock, and myostatin gene targeting. Dr. Singh has pioneered work demonstrating that individual cells remain viable in mammalian tissues for much longer periods after death than previously believed, with applications for cellular therapies and germplasm preservation. His work with CRISPR/Cas technology aims to reduce milk allergens and mastitis in goats, while his myostatin research seeks to enhance muscular mass in meat goats for agricultural applications. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent focus on cellular viability after death across multiple livestock species (cattle, goats, sheep), with particular attention to temperature effects and storage conditions. His work bridges basic cellular biology with practical agricultural applications, demonstrating how fundamental discoveries about postmortem cellular life can translate into biotechnological advances for livestock preservation and improvement. USDA-ARS 1890 Faculty Research Fellowship Award (2017) STEM Research Excellence Award, Fort Valley State University (2014-15) Multiple student research presentation awards at FVSU Annual Research Day symposiums Best Poster Award at National Symposium on Biotechnology, CIMAP, Lucknow, India (1999) Fogarty International Visiting Fellowship at NIH (1991-93) Dr. Singh has supervised an impressive 38 students across multiple educational levels, including 4 PhD, 13 MS, 7 BS, 8 HS, and 6 middle school students. His research has been supported by USDA-ARS, USDA-NIFA programs, and various other grants. He serves on multiple editorial boards, grant review panels, and university committees, and is an active member of professional societies including the American Society of Animal Science and Society for In Vitro Biology. Based in the Stallworth Biotechnology Building at FVSU, Dr. Singh leads research projects that bridge molecular biology with practical agricultural applications, working collaboratively with researchers from USDA-ARS, University of Illinois, University of Maryland, and other institutions to advance animal biotechnology and improve livestock production systems.

• Plant Virology
• Molecular Plant Pathology
• CRISPR/CAS9
• +6 more

Hakan Fidan is an Associate Professor in the Department of Plant Protection at Akdeniz University's Faculty of Agriculture in Antalya, Turkey. With over two decades of experience in plant virology and molecular plant pathology, Dr. Fidan leads research focused on viral diseases affecting vegetable crops, particularly tomatoes, peppers, cucurbits, and cereals. He serves as Director of the Seed and Agricultural Biotechnology Research and Application Center at Akdeniz University and has previously directed the Serik Gulsun-Suleyman Sural Vocational School. Dr. Fidan's academic journey includes: Doctorate (2004-2010): Cukurova University, Faculty of Agriculture, Plant Protection Department Postgraduate (2000-2004): Cukurova University, Faculty of Agriculture, Phytopathology/Virology Undergraduate (1992-1996): Cukurova University, Faculty of Agriculture, Plant Protection Department Dr. Fidan's research spans several interconnected areas in plant pathology and virology. His primary focus is on plant viruses affecting economically important crops in the Mediterranean region, with particular emphasis on molecular characterization of viral pathogens, development of resistance mechanisms, and implementation of sustainable disease management strategies. His work integrates molecular biology techniques with traditional plant pathology approaches to address real-world agricultural challenges. His specific research interests include: Plant Virology and Molecular Plant Pathology Development of molecular markers for disease resistance Complete genome molecular biology of plant viruses Plant resistance mechanisms against viral pathogens CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing for developing virus-resistant crops Host-pathogen interactions in vegetable crops Analysis of Dr. Fidan's recent publications reveals a strong focus on emerging viral threats to Turkish agriculture, particularly tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV), tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV), and zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV). His research demonstrates a strategic progression from basic viral characterization to developing practical solutions through molecular diagnostics, resistance breeding, and genome editing approaches. A notable trend is the increasing application of CRISPR/Cas9 technology in his recent work, reflecting a shift toward genetic solutions for viral disease management. Dr. Fidan has supervised 10 graduate theses across master's and doctoral levels, focusing on viral diseases of economically important crops. His students' research has addressed critical issues including ToBRFV management, TSWV resistance breaking, ZYMV resistance in cucurbits, and molecular characterization of emerging viral pathogens. His research program is supported by multiple projects (14 listed in the metrics), indicating successful grant acquisition for molecular virology research and crop protection initiatives. As Director of the Seed and Agricultural Biotechnology Research and Application Center at Akdeniz University, Dr. Fidan leads a multidisciplinary team focused on agricultural biotechnology and seed science. His research group specializes in plant virology, with expertise spanning molecular diagnostics, host-pathogen interactions, and genetic approaches to disease management. The team maintains strong connections with national and international research institutions, as evidenced by collaborative publications, and works closely with agricultural extension services to translate research findings into practical solutions for Turkish farmers.

• Plant Genetics
• Rust Resistance in Cereals
• Cereal Cytogenetics
• +3 more

Associate Professor Peng Zhang is affiliated with the School of Life and Environmental Sciences and the Plant Breeding Institute at the University of Sydney. She holds memberships in the China Studies Centre and Sydney Institute of Agriculture. Her educational background includes a BSc from Wageningen Agricultural University (Netherlands), MSc in Biotechnology (Wageningen), and PhD in Genetics from Kansas State University (USA). Her research focuses on molecular cytogenetics of wheat, introgression of rust resistance genes from wild relatives, and developing durable resistant germplasm. Key research interests include cereal crop improvement, rust pathogen resistance mechanisms, and genomic tools for plant breeding. Notable awards include the 2023 Sydney Research Accelerator (SOAR) Prize. Recent grants involve rust resistance mechanisms and hybrid wheat breeding programs in collaboration with international partners. Publications highlight work on resistance gene characterization, molecular mapping, and disease management strategies. Collaborative research with institutions like Kansas State University and international bodies underscores her global impact in agricultural science.

• Small Grains Pathology
• Fusarium Head Blight
• Stem Rust Resistance
• +3 more

Ruth Dill-Macky serves as a Professor in the Department of Plant Pathology at the University of Minnesota, based at Stakman Hall and Borlaug Hall in St. Paul, MN. She maintains an active research program focused on cereal crop diseases with USDA Agricultural Research Service funding, collaborating directly with wheat, barley, and oat breeding initiatives to develop resistant varieties. Her academic credentials include: PhD in Botany-Plant Pathology from University of Queensland, Australia (1993) BS in Botany-Plant Pathology (Honours, First Class) from University of Queensland, Australia (1984) BS in Botany and Biochemistry from University of Queensland, Australia (1983) Professor Dill-Macky's research centers on economically devastating diseases of small grains, particularly Fusarium head blight, stem rust, and bacterial leaf streak. Her program develops resistance screening techniques, analyzes inheritance patterns of resistance traits, and conducts epidemiological studies on pathogen spread under varying environmental conditions. She prioritizes translating molecular insights into practical breeding solutions for Minnesota growers. Recent publications (2023-2025) reveal intensified focus on molecular characterization of Fusarium resistance mechanisms and Ug99 stem rust threats, alongside emerging bacterial disease challenges. Her work integrates genomics, field trials, and germplasm screening to address yield impacts from pathogens like Xanthomonas translucens, with strong emphasis on developing deployable resistance strategies for cereal production systems. Scientific awards: No specific awards documented in the provided materials She has secured 67 grants as Principal Investigator, primarily through USDA Agricultural Research Service, with active projects extending to 2026. Current work includes molecular characterization of Fusarium head blight, stem rust evaluation in oats, and bacterial leaf streak management. Her program has generated 96 research outputs and one major barley genomics dataset. Professor Dill-Macky leads a multidisciplinary research team collaborating with breeders and USDA scientists, operating field nurseries and molecular labs focused on pathogen virulence and host resistance mechanisms in cereal crops across Minnesota's agricultural landscape.

• Vegetable Breeding
• Plant Biotechnology
• Molecular Marker-Assisted Selection
• +3 more

Ayşe Nur Şavkan serves as Assistant Professor in the Department of Horticulture at Kırşehir Ahi Evran University's Faculty of Agriculture since 2025, following her tenure as Lecturer (2020-2025) at the same institution. Her academic foundation includes a PhD (2018-2023), MSc (2015-2018), and BSc (2011-2015) in Horticulture from Selçuk University, establishing her expertise in vegetable crop improvement. Her educational qualifications: PhD in Horticulture, Selçuk University (2018-2023) MSc in Horticulture, Selçuk University (2015-2018) BSc in Horticulture, Selçuk University (2011-2015) Dr. Şavkan's research integrates molecular biotechnology with traditional breeding to enhance vegetable crops' resilience. She specializes in developing stress-tolerant genotypes through molecular marker-assisted selection, with particular emphasis on salinity and cold tolerance in peppers and squash. Her work bridges laboratory techniques with field applications to address climate-related agricultural challenges, focusing on both morphological characterization and physiological mechanisms of stress adaptation. Analysis of her 14 publications (2020-2025) reveals consistent thematic progression in vegetable breeding. Early work established foundational knowledge in dihaploidization techniques for squash, while recent studies demonstrate sophisticated integration of machine learning for germination analysis and molecular screening for dual virus resistance in peppers. Her research trajectory shows increasing methodological complexity—from basic morphological characterization to multi-omics approaches—while maintaining focus on practical crop improvement for Turkish agriculture. Dr. Şavkan has not received documented scientific awards to date. Her research leadership is evidenced through principal investigatorship of a current Kırşehir Ahi Evran University project (2025-2026) investigating low-temperature pepper germination using machine learning. As co-investigator, she has contributed to nine additional projects including TÜBİTAK-funded initiatives on salt-tolerant pepper development and virus-resistant vegetable breeding, demonstrating sustained research productivity. She operates within a robust collaborative network centered at Kırşehir Ahi Evran University, with particularly strong partnerships with Önder Türkmen (13 joint publications) and Ayşe Çandar (7 collaborations). This interdisciplinary team combines expertise in molecular biology, plant physiology, and field horticulture to address complex agricultural challenges through integrated research approaches.

• Genomics
• Transcriptomics
• Network Biology
• +7 more

Pasquale Luca Curci is a Researcher at the Institute of Biosciences and BioResources (IBBR), part of the National Research Council of Italy (CNR) in Bari. His work focuses on integrating large-scale genomic and transcriptomic datasets to uncover biological mechanisms in plants, particularly in crops like durum wheat and artichoke. His research interests span genomics, transcriptomics, and network biology, with a strong emphasis on nitrogen use efficiency, gene regulatory networks, and plant stress responses. He employs systems biology approaches to identify key genes and regulatory elements involved in plant development and adaptation. The analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent focus on plant genomics, particularly in durum wheat and Cynara species. His work integrates omics data to understand gene function, stress responses, and evolutionary relationships. Key themes include nitrogen metabolism, microRNA regulation, chloroplast genomics, and cross-species network analysis. He has led and coordinated multiple national and international research collaborations with institutions in Belgium, Sweden, Spain, France, and Italy, focusing on gene function discovery, nitrogen efficiency, and germplasm characterization. Integrative network analysis for gene function discovery in wheat (with BASF Agricultural Solutions, Belgium) Cross-species network biology in plants (with SweTree Technologies, Sweden) Transcriptomics and regulatory networks in durum wheat (with Sequentia Biotech SL, Spain) Phenotypization and genomic analysis of durum wheat (with Alma Mater Studiorum, Bologna) Asparagine synthetase genes in durum wheat (with INRA-CNRGV, France) He has contributed to the development of genomic resources for Cynara and has published extensively on chloroplast genomics, transcriptomics under nitrogen stress, and genetic diversity in vegetable crops. His work supports crop improvement and sustainable agriculture through advanced molecular tools.

Heather J HusonView profile

Associate Professor

• Genetic Improvement of Animal Health and Performance
• Genetic Evaluations
• Population Structure, Adaptation, and Evolution
• +13 more

Heather J Huson is an Associate Professor of Animal Genetics in the Department of Animal Science at Cornell University's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS), with joint appointments in the College of Veterinary Medicine's Department of Clinical Sciences and Department of Biomedical Sciences. Her research spans multiple species including working dogs, dairy cattle, musk ox, and small ruminants, focusing on genetic improvement, population structure, adaptation, and genomic tool development. Dr. Huson's educational background includes: Post-Doctoral Researcher at USDA-ARS, Bovine Functional Genomics, Beltsville, MD Doctorate in Molecular Genetics from University of Alaska, Fairbanks, AK; National Institutes of Health Graduate Partnership Program, Bethesda, MD (2011) VTL, Alaska State Veterinary Technician License (2002) Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Cornell University (1997) Associate of Science, Math and Science from Jefferson Community College, Watertown, NY (1995) Dr. Huson's research program uses genomic tools to investigate ancestry, relatedness, and genetic regulation of traits across domestic and wild species. Her primary focus areas include working dog genetics (particularly sled dogs), dairy cattle health traits, and musk ox conservation. She studies the genetics of athletic performance, behavior, health, and adaptation across species, with specific projects examining the human-canine bond and public perspectives on extreme conformation in dog breeds. In dairy cattle research, she investigates disease genetics, crossbreeding effects, and epigenetic inheritance related to disease and performance. Dr. Huson's recent publications reveal her expertise in comparative genomics across species, with particular emphasis on sled dog evolution, working dog performance genetics, and dairy cattle health traits. Her research bridges historical analysis with modern genomic techniques, identifying connections between genetic variants and phenotypic traits across diverse populations. Dr. Huson has received notable recognition for her work: 2022 CALS Rising Star Faculty Award for demonstrating extraordinary promise early in her career 2017 Atkinson Center Faculty Fellow As an educator and mentor, Dr. Huson directs the Cornell Raptor Program (CRP), which houses approximately 25 resident birds of prey. She teaches courses including ANSC 1130: Introduction to Captive Raptor Husbandry, ANSC 2210/5210: Principles of Animal Genetics, and ANSC 3310/6310: Applied Dairy Cattle Genetics. She mentors post-doctoral, graduate, and undergraduate researchers who learn laboratory techniques, animal handling, and genomic data analysis. Her team collaborates with guide, detection, and assistance dog groups, as well as dairy cattle producers. Dr. Huson leads the Odyssey DNA Lab, which supports her multi-species genomic research. Her background as a sled dog racer (25 years of experience, including professional racing in Alaska for six years) deeply informs her research on working dog genetics, connecting her personal experience with scientific inquiry.

John L SniderView profile

Professor

• Crop Physiology
• Agronomy
• Water Use Efficiency
• +3 more

Dr. John L Snider is a Professor at the University of Georgia's College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences, Department of Crop & Soil Sciences. His research appointment (85%) focuses on cotton physiology with emphasis on stress responses, water use efficiency, and sustainable production systems. He leads the Cotton Physiology Lab at UGA's Tifton Campus, collaborating with agricultural stakeholders across Georgia. Research interests include: Characterizing physiological responses to yield-limiting stresses Developing water optimization strategies Improving cotton seedling vigor Enhancing sustainability in cotton production systems Dr. Snider advises graduate students and teaches undergraduate/graduate courses in crop science. Recent publications demonstrate strong focus on precision agriculture technologies (UAVs, LiDAR), stress physiology, and genotype-environment interactions. Article keywords reveal emphasis on remote sensing applications, thermal stress adaptation, genetic improvement, and sustainable management practices. Laboratory: Cotton Physiology Lab (Tifton Campus)

Susana GoggiView profile

Professor

• Seed Physiology
• Seed Quality
• Plant Genetics
• +5 more

Dr. Susana Goggi is a Professor of Agronomy at Iowa State University, specializing in seed physiology and crop science. She holds a Ph.D. in Agronomy/Seed Science from Mississippi State University (1990), an M.S. from the same institution (1987), and a B.S. in Agronomic Engineering from Universidad de Buenos Aires (1983). Her research focuses on seed development physiology, seed quality enhancement, and strategies to mitigate environmental stresses in soybeans and corn. She has held academic roles at Iowa State since 1994, including Professor since 2017. Her research interests include seed longevity, dormancy, and germination, with recent projects addressing organic seed protectants, soybean genome fluidity, and frost damage effects. She teaches Agronomy/Horticulture 338 and Agron 538, and mentors students in her lab. Professional service includes leadership roles in the Crop Science Society of America and Association of Official Seed Analysts. Awards include the 2016 Crop Science Society of America Fellowship and 2019 Iowa Seed Association Honorary Membership. Her 15 most recent articles (2022–2008) span topics like corn yield optimization, biological seed coatings, and seed priming techniques. Current work emphasizes perennial groundcover integration and reducing outcrossing in maize through pollen management strategies.

• Horticultural Crop Breeding
• Plant Genetics
• Genome Analysis
• +2 more

Ki Hwan Song is a Professor in the Department of Bioindustry and Bioresource Engineering at Sejong University. He has held academic and research positions since 2015, following a career in plant breeding at Dongbu Farm Hannong (2007-2015), Monsanto China (2000-2007), and Dong-Yang-Moolsan Co. (1996-1999). His research focuses on horticultural crop breeding, genome analysis, and molecular marker development for stress tolerance and disease resistance. Ph.D. in Plant Breeding, Seoul National University (1997) M.S. and B.S. in Plant Science, Seoul National University (1992, 1990) Song's research spans genetic resource development for disease resistance (cucurbit crops), genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and molecular breeding techniques. His work includes high-throughput sequencing for gene discovery, SNP marker development, and stress tolerance mechanisms in cucumbers and pumpkins. Recent publications highlight advancements in yellow endocarp genetics , cucurbitacin profiling , and chilling tolerance in Cucurbitaceae species. Key keywords across his 29 research outputs include plant genetics, genomics, molecular biology, and stress tolerance. He leads the Plant Breeding Laboratory (Da434) at Sejong University, with contributions to patents in cucumber genetics and stress-tolerant cultivars. His teaching includes graduate courses in seed production and vegetable science.

Jenny KoebernickView profile

Associate Professor

• Plant Breeding
• Genetics
• Agricultural Science
• +3 more

Jenny Koebernick is an Associate Professor in Cotton & Soybean Breeding at Auburn University’s College of Agriculture, within the Department of Crop, Soil & Environmental Sciences. Her work focuses on genetic improvement of cotton and soybean crops, with particular emphasis on disease resistance, seed quality traits, and sustainable agricultural practices. Her research integrates genomic technologies like genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and molecular diagnostics to address challenges such as Cercospora leaf blight, Corynespora cassiicola, and Cotton Leafroll Dwarf Virus (CLRDV). She collaborates on strategic plans for soybean genomics research and develops germplasm lines with enhanced agronomic traits. Recent studies explore interactions between genotype, environment, and management practices, including nutrient efficiency and pest/disease dynamics. Her work spans crop physiology, precision agriculture technologies, and extension efforts to improve Alabama’s agricultural productivity. Key contributions include optimizing cottonseed oil content, refining soybean test weight metrics, and advancing understanding of 65-year yield trends in U.S. cotton production. She leads interdisciplinary efforts to address CLRDV transmission and blueberry stem blight in Alabama’s agroecosystems.

Susana Milla-LewisView profile

Professor

• Turfgrass Breeding
• Plant Genetics
• Genomics
• +3 more

Susana Milla-Lewis is a Professor specializing in Turfgrass Breeding & Genetics at North Carolina State University, based in Williams Hall (Room 4114). Her work focuses on developing sustainable turfgrass cultivars requiring reduced inputs while maintaining performance under biotic and environmental stresses. Contact: susana_milla-lewis@ncsu.edu . Her research integrates conventional breeding with advanced genomic technologies. Key interests include germplasm characterization, breeding for cold tolerance in warm-season grasses, heat/drought tolerance in tall fescue, pest resistance, mutation breeding, and high-throughput phenotyping. She utilizes QTL mapping, GWAS, molecular markers, and tissue culture techniques to link phenotypic traits to DNA polymorphisms for turfgrass improvement. 2025 publications reveal strong emphasis on drought/shade tolerance across multiple species (bermudagrass, zoysiagrass, St. Augustinegrass), with significant use of multi-omics integration, UAV-based phenomics, and genetic mapping to identify candidate genes and resistance mechanisms. Recent work includes seven new cultivar registrations demonstrating practical outcomes of her breeding program. No scientific awards were mentioned in source materials. While lacking formal extension appointment, her program actively engages sod growers, seed companies, and industry stakeholders through outreach. She teaches CS (HS) 211 – Plant Genetics and leads breeding initiatives targeting reduced-input turfgrass solutions. The NC State Turfgrass Breeding & Genetics program under her direction develops cultivars for stress tolerance while generating genomic resources. Current activities span mutation breeding, exotic germplasm utilization, and phenomics-driven trait selection to enhance industry sustainability across warm-season grasses.

• Plant Genetics
• Horticulture
• Genetic Diversity
• +4 more

Ordidge Matt is a Researcher affiliated with the University of Reading, specializing in plant genetics and horticultural science. His work focuses on molecular marker analysis, genetic diversity assessment, and germplasm management in fruit crops, particularly apples and cherries. Research Interests Genetic diversity and population structure in fruit crops Molecular marker development for cultivar identification Climate adaptation in plant phenology Cryopreservation techniques for germplasm viability Recent Publications 2024: SNP-based standardization of apple cultivar identification 2023: Pedigree reconstruction in triploid apples using SNP data 2022: Genetic resistance to European canker in apples 2021: SSR marker alignment for cherry germplasm databases 2020: KASP marker panels for apple genotyping

• Plant Genetics
• Weed Science
• Crop Science
• +3 more

Melinda Yerka is an Associate Professor in the Department of Agriculture, Veterinary and Rangeland Sciences at the University of Nevada, Reno, where her research centers on herbicide resistance evolution, crop-to-weed gene flow dynamics, and sorghum germplasm development for sustainable agriculture. Her academic foundation includes: B.S. in Agricultural Sciences from University of Wisconsin-Madison (2005) M.S. in Plant Breeding and Plant Genetics from University of Wisconsin-Madison (2008) Ph.D. in Plant Breeding and Plant Genetics from University of Wisconsin-Madison (2011) Dr. Yerka's research program investigates the genetic and physiological mechanisms driving evolved herbicide resistance in problematic weeds like johnsongrass and giant ragweed. She examines reproductive barriers preventing transgene escape from crops to weedy relatives and develops genomic tools for sorghum improvement. Her work integrates molecular biology, population genomics, and field ecology to address critical challenges in weed management and crop resilience. Analysis of her 2019-2025 publications reveals dominant themes in genomics-assisted sorghum breeding (particularly waxy endosperm traits), molecular marker development, and evolutionary modeling of herbicide resistance. Key methodological approaches include high-throughput phenotyping, transcriptome/metabolome profiling, and near-infrared spectroscopy for trait characterization, with significant emphasis on translating genomic discoveries into practical breeding solutions. She directs the Yerka Lab, which maintains active scientific outreach through Instagram (@Yerka_Lab) and Twitter (@LabYerka), focusing on real-time dissemination of weed science research and sorghum breeding advancements.