Sanzhen Liu

Dr. Sanzhen Liu is an Associate Professor in the Department of Plant Pathology at Kansas State University. His research integrates genetics, molecular biology, and computational tools to study maize, wheat, and plant pathogens. He leads a lab focused on leveraging next-generation sequencing and computational methods to address agricultural challenges.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Genetics (minor: Statistics), Iowa State University, 2010
• M.S. in Molecular Microbiology, Xiamen University, 2000
• B.S. in Microbiology (minor: Computer Science), Xiamen University, 1997

Research Focus: Investigates plant embryogenesis, stress resistance mechanisms (e.g., drought, Goss’s wilt), and genomic dynamics of fungal pathogens causing blast diseases. Current projects include genome assembly methodologies, gene mapping, and resistance gene identification in maize and wheat.

Lab & Funding: Supported by NSF Plant Genome Research Program (PGRP), NSF/NIFA Plant Biotic Interactions (PBI), Kansas Wheat Commission, and USDA initiatives. The lab emphasizes translational research bridging basic science and agricultural applications.