THE PATTERSON LAB
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Meet the Lab

Eric Patterson

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

LUAN CUTTI

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Degree
B.S. Federal University of Santa Maria (Brazil), Agronomy
M.S. Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil), Weed Science
Ph. D. Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil), Weed Science


Biography
Hello! I am a Postdoctoral at Patterson's Lab, working in partnership with  International Weed Genomics Consortium. I got my Ph.D. in Weed Science at Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil), supervised by Dr. Aldo Merotto. During my last Ph.D. year, I was Research Scholar at Colorado State University, supervised by Dr. Todd Gaines. My dissertation title was: "Genetic and molecular characterization of barnyardgrass resistant to florpyrauxifen-benzyl and introgression of transgenic glyphosate resistance from corn to teosinte". I have large experience researching weeds, performing large screenings, field trials, and applying molecular biology to investigate herbicide resistance mechanisms.
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GRADUATE STUDENTS

MASTER'S STUDENTS

MOHIT MAHEY

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Degree
B.S. Punjab Agricultural University (India), Agriculture
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Biography
I am a first-year Masters student in crop and soil sciences. My research is mostly focused on the site of action of  herbicide particularly 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. 
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JULIANO SULZBACK

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Degree
B.S. University of São Paulo (Brazil), Agronomy

Biography
Hello! I am a first-year Masters student in the department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Science and my research is focused on early diagnostics for herbicide resistance in invasive species. Additionally, as another ramification of my research, I am interested in the epidemiology of weed species that developed resistance through the years, specifically in Conyza canadensis. In order to achieve my research goals, I am both using a molecular diagnostic technique which provides valuable insights for the farmers in a timely manner; and building dose-response curves to confirm our main hypothesis. I love being part of Patterson's lab because I feel I have a lot of synergy with my advisor and lab mates, which only makes me feel comfortable to be part of such a meaningful work environment. Outside of the lab, I love to spend time with my daughters, 2 ,15-pound-cats named Nina and Lili, to play basketball and soccer, to listen to classic rock and bossa nova, and to watch TV shows.

Ph.D. STUDENTS

NICK JOHNSON

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


Biography
Hello! I am a second-year Ph.D. student dual majoring in Genetics and Genome Sciences and Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior and fellow of the NSF IMPACTS and a PBHS programs. My research uses computational tools to answer questions regarding weedy and invasive plant genetics and evolution. Aside from the incredibly supportive and fun work environment, my favorite part about working in the Patterson Lab is the diversity of research being pursued in the lab. From computational genetics to molecular plant biology, I am always learning from my colleagues. Outside of the lab, I enjoy outdoorsy sports, camping, piano, guitar, and traveling.

RESEARCH TECHNICIAN

JANE MICHAEL


UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH ASSISTANT

RACHEL HALL

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Hello! I am a second year undergraduate student here at MSU. My major is biochemistry/biotechnology with a minor in agronomy. I joined the lab to gain experience early on and help build connections that will be needed later on in my journey. I hope to eventually work on a biofuel to replace fossil fuels but for now I am learning the basics. Outside of the lab I go to the gym, I read books, play video games, watch copious amounts of anime and hang out with friends.
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LAB ALUMINI

JINYI CHEN

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RACHEL HADVINA

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NATHAN HALL

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KIRA FALASCHI

SARAH HOLMES

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CARLY CLAUCHERTY (she/her/hers)

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​MICHAEL OZOLINS

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  • Who We Are
  • Research
  • Publications
  • Lab Members
  • Gallery
  • Posters
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