معرفی
Dr. Asela Wijeratne is an Associate Professor of Bioinformatics at Arkansas State University's Beck College of Sciences & Mathematics, Department of Biological Sciences. He leads the Wijeratne Lab, focusing on plant-microbe interactions and sustainable agriculture solutions.
- PhD in Bioinformatics (2007) - Pennsylvania State University
- BS in Biological Sciences (2000) - University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
Research interests center on soybean-Phytophthora sojae interactions, gene regulatory networks, and bioinformatics applications in plant pathology. The lab develops novel strategies to combat crop losses through microbiome engineering and molecular analysis. Teaching portfolio includes bioinformatics, molecular biology, and biotechniques courses.
Recent publications analyze rhizosphere microbiomes, Striga germination mechanisms, and avian ectosymbiont diversity. The lab also provides extensive mentoring opportunities for undergraduate and graduate researchers.
- USDA Research Funding Recipient
- Kays Foundation Grant
Lab alumni have transitioned to roles at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, AgriGro Inc., and doctoral programs at SUNY-Buffalo and Purdue University. The lab maintains active collaborations with institutions like University of Memphis and Ohio State University.
