Prof. Garcia-Aroca: Real-time PCR and sequencing of fungal spores from traps in Nebraska

Plant Pathology
Faculty Advisor
Teddy Garcia-Aroca
Contact Email teddy.garcia@unl.edu
Website
Advisor College:
Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources
Potential Student Tasks
  • Helping with sample collection and processing.
  • Assisting with DNA extraction and real-time PCR runs.
  • Data analysis and modeling using computational biology.
Student Qualifications
  • Preferably someone who enjoys the outdoors (for sample collection).
  • Interested in DNA technology and lab research (wet lab).
  • Some level of interest in dry lab techniques (computational biology).
Training, Mentoring, and Workplace Community

Our lab consists of many members who are committed to help each other. Myself and graduate students are always willing to provide training. For this project, we have one PhD student who is leading most of the efforts. Our Department is a great community to work with and we offer many social activities.
Available Positions
2

We are developing an early warning system for corn diseases in Nebraska. Corn, one of the world's staples, is affected by several diseases every year. In Nebraska, Southern Rust and Tar Spot represent two diseases that are a real concern. Their unpredictable nature is the main reason why we need an early warning system to improve our ability to detect and prevent these diseases. In our lab, we are using state-of-the-art technology, including spore traps and DNA amplification/sequencing to determine the spread of these pathogens in the region.