معرفی
Dr. C.J. Tsai is the Winfred N. 'Hank' Haynes Professor and Georgia Research Alliance Eminent Scholar at the University of Georgia. His research focuses on plant biology, particularly the molecular mechanisms underlying tree longevity, perennial growth, and interactions with pathogens. He employs advanced techniques including CRISPR genome editing, transcriptomics, and metabolomics. His lab hosts visiting scholars for technical training in areas like in situ hybridization and metabolomic analysis.
Research interests include sucrose transport regulation, lignin biosynthesis, and salicylic acid signaling in trees. He has pioneered tools for editing woody perennials, with industrial relevance for biomass production and ecological insights into tree-pathogen interactions. His lab is affiliated with The Plant Center and operates the Forest Functional Genomics Lab.
Recent publications highlight breakthroughs in Populus genome editing, CRISPR promoter development, and discoveries like the BOOSTER gene enhancing photosynthesis. Major awards include the 2024 IUFRO Scientific Achievement Award and AAAS Fellowship. He oversees a team of 14 researchers and 3 Ph.D. students, focusing on translating fundamental discoveries into sustainable forestry applications.
- Awards: IUFRO Excellence Awards (2024), AAAS Fellowship (2017), IAWS Fellowship (2013)
- Advising: 3 current Ph.D. students and 14 research staff
- Labs: Forest Functional Genomics Lab (specializing in tree genomics and biotechnology)
