Eric Nazareno

Eric Nazareno is a Research Fellow at the University of Minnesota, affiliated with the Steffenson Lab. His research focuses on genetic resistance, molecular-plant microbe interactions, and applications of genomics and bioinformatics in plant disease management.

Education:

• Master's Degree in Molecular Biology from Tennessee State University.
• PhD in Plant Pathology from the University of Minnesota.

Research Interests: Nazareno's work centers on understanding plant-pathogen interactions, particularly in oat crown rust pathosystems. He employs linkage/association mapping and genomic tools to identify virulence genes in pathogens and resistance genes in hosts.

Professional Background: Prior to his graduate studies, he served as a Science Research Specialist at the Philippine Rice Research Institute, where he contributed to agricultural disease management projects.

Personal Interests: Nazareno enjoys biking, hiking, camping, and playing tennis with family and friends. He also plays music and spends time with his 5-year-old son.