Characterization of the structure and function of plant genes which confer susceptibility or resistance to bacterial and fungal pathogens of Arabidopsis . Genetic methods are being used to identify genes which are known only by whole-plant phenotypes. Studies incorporate a multidisciplinary approach, including genetics, protein engineering, cell injection, and confocal and video microscopy. The central emphasis is observation and manipulation of live cells and their components, e.g., the use of jellyfish green fluorescent protein as a versatile tool for creating live cell markers. Development of a major data base that provides on-line access to all aspects of Arabidopsis genome information.
Topics range broadly over current research areas in plant biology.
In addition, Carnegie and Stanford plant biologists hold a joint three-day retreat each year at the Marconi Center on Tomales Bay, north of San Francisco. Plastic cylinders expose grassland to an atmosphere having doubled carbon dioxide. The department's headquarters and principal laboratories are in Stanford, California. The Stanford facilities include modern laboratories, a seven-acre garden, and nine modern greenhouses with climate control systems. Chambers for growing plants under different controlled environments are maintained at Stanford, including the Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve.