Submitted by Benjamin Blackman on
Our group studies in the genetic mechanisms responsible for how wild plant populations adapt to their natural environments. One major focus is the evolution of floral color patterns across populations of the common monkeyflower, Mimulus guttatus. During floral development, patterns of pigment are painted on to the petals of many plants, and these pigments often serve to attract and direct bee pollinators toward pollen and nectar rewards. We have found several natural variants visible and UV spectrums, and we are pursuing genetic studies to determine what specific molecular changes have occurred to disrupt these patterns. Students will directly be involved in the creation and maintenance of these lines. In doing so, we hope to learn more about the mechanisms that specify where and when petal cells develop pigmentation and the ecological processes that maintain variation in these patterns in nature. Student will be directly supervised by postdoctoral fellow Dr. Jesús Martínez-Gómez.
Undergraduate researchers will help with the creation of genetically transformed monkeyflower lines using CRISPR. Students will be involved in genetically transforming plants, maintaining plant tissue cultures (analogous to stem cell lines in animals) and molecularly validating transformed lines in the greenhouse. Students will develop fundamental skill in plant transformation and molecular biology. In addition to wet lab work, students will be invited to attend the Blackman lab group meeting and other various activities in the lab. Student will be encouraged to present findings at scientific conference (e.g., Evolution, Botany). They will additionally be encouraged and supported in applying to research related scholarships, internships, grants, and other professional development opportunities.
Students with an interest in molecular biology, genetics and/or plant biology will find the experience most rewarding. Attention to detail and good record keeping skills are essential. Work will take place on campus in Koshland hall and in the Oxford tract greenhouse throughout the week.