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

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. ​

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 first-year Ph.D. student in the department of Genetics and Genome Sciences and NSF IMPACTS Fellow working with the Patterson Lab. My research uses computational tools to answer questions regarding weedy and invasive plant genetics and evolution. I am currently investigating glyphosate resistance and other genetic characteristics of Eleusine indica and Amaranthus palmeri. 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

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.

​MICHAEL OZOLINS

Hi! I am senior undergraduate student at MSU studying horticulture. currently i am working on a project to see if the herbicide damage can be measured by chlorophyll fluorescence. I mostly work in fields and greenhouse, and also help in wet lab stuff in lab. I am really interested in insects, especially parasitoids. I also volunteered at the MSU insect taxonomy lab. I collect insects for them, for long term storage. I also do there identification and taxonomic classification. I have a very cool insect box, and adds my new findings to it whenever i get a chance. Outside the lab i like to go on walks, gym, eat jimmy john's and watch movies. I am also a member of reading club, and we go out every other week. 

LAB ALUMINI

JINYI CHEN

RACHEL HADVINA

NATHAN HALL

KIRA FALASCHI

SARAH HOLMES

CARLY CLAUCHERTY (she/her/hers)