Lab members

Eric Patterson

Principal Investigator

Assistant professor
Weed Geneticist

Degrees
B.S. Colorado State University, Evolutionary Biology
M.S. Colorado State University, Botany
Ph.D. Colorado State University, Bioagricultural Sciences, Weed Science

Biography
Dr. Patterson's research program utilizes the most current techniques in genomics to understand the structure and plasticity of weedy genomes and how that plasticity influences the success of weedy species. He is especially interested in how genome rearrangements (i.e. transposable elements and copy number variation) form and are utilized as novel sources of genetic variation for weed adaptation to abiotic stresses. He also works on herbicides and how they affect plant physiology and how resistance evolves on rapid timescales in weedy species.

Meet Our Team

POST-DOCTORAL RESEARCHERS

SARA ÁLVAREZ RODRÍGUEZ

Degree
B.S University of Vigo (Spain), Biology
M.S University of Vigo (Spain), Advanced Biotechnology
Ph.D. University of Vigo (Spain), Plant Physiology

Biography:
I come from Galicia, a region in northwestern Spain. I completed my PhD at the University of Vigo, focusing on the mode of action of two natural compounds with phytotoxic potential: azelaic acid and harmaline. Through a combination of morphological, physiological, and molecular analyses - such as germination and growth assays, optical and electron microscopy, hormonal analysis, metabolomics, and ionomics - I investigated the impact of these molecules on plant metabolism. My work aims to contribute to the development of more effective and environmentally friendly weed management strategies. I am in my first year as a postdoctoral researcher in Eric's group, eager to expand my knowledge in weed genomics. I look forward to creating a synergy between my expertise and the knowledge this lab has to offer. Outside of work, I love exploring new restaurants, traveling, and spending time with my family and friends.

EDNALDO A. BORGATO

Degree
B.S University of Sao Paulo (Brazil), Agronomy
M.S. University of Sao Paulo (Brazil), Weed Science
Ph. D. Kansas State University (Kansas), Weed Science

Biography
I’m from the state of Sao Paulo, Brazil, and found my passion for weed science in college. I am interested in combining basic and applied research to answer meaningful questions about weeds. I’m working under Dr. Patterson and Dr. Burns, investigating EPSPS gene amplification in Italian ryegrass, and population dynamics in troublesome species in Michigan. Outside of work, I do CrossFit, I like cooking for friends, and playing adventure games on my Nintendo Switch.

REBECKA DUECKER

Degree
B.S. Georg-August Universität Göttingen (Germany), Agricultural Sciences
M.S Georg-August Universität Göttingen (Germany), Agricultural Sciences
Ph. D. Georg-August Universität Göttingen (Germany)/Bayer AG Frankfurt (Germany), Phytopathology

Biography
I grew up on a farm in Germany and I’ve always been interested in the plants growing around me. Following my passion for agriculture, plants and teaching I became a weed scientist and with a focus on herbicide resistance. In my research I love bridging the gap between field applied research and modern molecular and bioinformatic approaches. In my current DFG-funded project I investigate ryegrass varieties as a source of herbicide resistance and the regulation of genes involved in resistance to the pre-emergence herbicide flufenacet and co-regulated genes. Outside of work I spend my time on roller skates, on my bike or in my garden.

GRADUATE STUDENTS

MASTER'S STUDENTS

MICHAEL OZOLINS

Degree
B.S. Michigan State University(USA), Horticulture

Biography
I'm a second-year master in crop and soil science. My focus is cuticle development and drought stress in conyza. I’m currently using transcriptomics and GCMS to understand how the fatty acids profile changes in response to drought stress. Additionally, I’m working on pea seed development. Outside of the lab, I enjoy insect collecting and volunteering at the MSU insect collection identifying Hymenoptera.

Ph.D. STUDENTS

MOHIT MAHEY

Degree
B.S. Punjab Agricultural University (India), Agriculture

Biography
I am a phd student in crop and soil sciences. My research is mostly focused on the site of action of herbicide indaziflam. I am using various molecular and biotechnology techniques to answer this questions. I also use conventional fluorescence microscopy and confocal microscopy to further solve the mystery of my project. I am focusing on basic biology questions as well as its applied aspects. I feel fortunate to be a part of Patterson's lab, with great P.I. and awesome lab members and all the skills and mentorship I am receiving :). I graduated with B.S. in Agriculture from Punjab Agricultural University, India in august 2021. Being brought up in a village, I always like visiting farms, and just going on a walk. When i am not in lab or on microscope, I like to go on a long walk, gym or a hike. I am also a big supporter of lazy weekends, so I also like to sleep, in my free time.

NICK JOHNSON

Degrees
A.A. Normandale Community College, Liberal Arts
B.S. University of Minnesota (Twin Cities), Plant Science (Breeding & Genetics)

Biography
Hello! I'm a third-year Ph.D. candidate dual majoring in Genetics and Genome Sciences and Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior and fellow of the NRT IMPACTS and a PBHS programs. I'm currently using comparative genomics to find patterns of weediness and deep learning approaches to model gene regulation. Outside of the lab, I enjoy hiking, camping, kayaking, biking, piano, guitar, and traveling.