Pablo D Jenik

Pablo D Jenik is a Professor of Biology whose research focuses on plant embryogenesis, particularly in the model organism Arabidopsis thaliana. His work investigates the molecular mechanisms controlling embryonic patterning and seed maturation, making significant contributions to plant developmental biology through genetic and molecular approaches.

His educational background includes:

• Ph.D. in Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, 2000
• Licenciado (B.Sc./M.Sc.) in Biology, University of Buenos Aires, Argentina, 1994

Jenik's research program centers on understanding plant embryo formation with emphasis on two critical phases: patterning (spatial specification of cell types) and maturation (accumulation of reserves for germination). Early work characterized mutants affecting embryonic patterning, studying genes involved in microRNA synthesis (e.g., DICER-LIKE1) and protein degradation pathways (e.g., proteasome subunits). Recent research investigates genetic and physiological triggers initiating the seed maturation program, utilizing Arabidopsis for its stereotyped development that facilitates mutant analysis.

Analysis of his publication record reveals a clear evolution from embryonic patterning to maturation processes. His work consistently integrates genetic, molecular, and physiological methodologies with strong undergraduate involvement. Key recurring themes include transcriptional regulation by trihelix factors, microRNA-mediated control, proteasome function, and the coordination of developmental timing—providing fundamental insights into plant reproduction with potential agricultural applications.

Jenik has secured significant external funding including an NIH-NIGMS grant (1R15GM113186-01, 2015-2019) for characterizing maturation repressors and an NSF Major Research Instrumentation grant (DBI1626073, 2016-2018) for a confocal microscope. His mentorship of undergraduate researchers is evident through frequent student co-authorships. He teaches core courses including Genetics (BIO 305), Advanced Genetics and Epigenetics (BIO 352), and Evolutionary Developmental Biology (BIO 331), emphasizing research integration in the classroom.

Operating within a research-intensive liberal arts college environment, Jenik's laboratory fosters close faculty-student collaboration. Current research directions include expanding embryo maturation studies to related plant species and investigating physiological signals coordinating maturation with developmental progression.