I am a member of Lars Østergaard’s research group, where I investigate plant growth and development in both model species such as Arabidopsis thaliana and crop plants like pea (Pisum sativum). My research contributes to a deeper understanding of legume biology - an area of increasing importance due to legumes’ role as sustainable sources of plant-based protein. Legumes have the unique ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen, significantly reducing the need for synthetic fertilisers. Compared to other forms of agriculture, legume-based protein production has a lower carbon footprint, requires less water, and uses land more efficiently.
Previously, I worked in Nick Harberd’s group from 2006 to 2023 - at first at the John Innes Centre (Norwich) until we moved in 2007 to the Department of Plant Sciences, University of Oxford. My research with Nick focused on the role of DNA mutations in genome evolution, particularly in response to environmental factors such as temperature, radiation, and soil salinity. Using next-generation sequencing, we explored how these factors influence mutation rates and patterns. Notably, we also investigated the genomic consequences of disrupting DNA mismatch repair (MMR) pathways in Arabidopsis thaliana mutation accumulation (MA) lines.
Other departmental roles:
- Plant growth facilities manager
- Lecturer
- Tutor
- Biology degree 1st year Research Skills convenor
Committee membership:
- Facilities Committee
- Genetic Modification Safety Committee
