CRISPR is widely used to target specific cell types, but only one at a time. Two new techniques developed in the lab of Jill Banfield allow CRISPR editing of genes in multiple cell types simultaneously.
Understanding why some “fire-loving” fungi thrive after wildfire
In a new study, which was featured in the New York Times, PMB researchers uncover a food source that allows some fungi to flourish after a fire.
PMB faculty recognized for number of citations
The Clarivate Highly Cited Researcher 2021 list includes PMB’s Sheng Luan, Kris Niyogi, and Igor Grigoriev.
The pen is mightier than the pipette
PMB Graduate student Lauren Hamm interviewed science communicators on the dos and don’ts of sharing research with the public.
Student Spotlight: Nicholas Karavolias
Ph.D. candidate Karavolias uses CRISPR/Cas and other genetic tools to understand the genes that regulate the development and operation of stomata in rice varieties.
RIPE Project featured by BBC
Professor Krishna Niyogi and his lab are collaborators on the project, which works to improve plant photosynthesis and increase yields for farmers worldwide.
Engineering a hungry bacterium to protect public health
Professor Dr. Cecilia Martinez-Gomez and Dr. Nathan Good have used their research to engineer bacteria that removes gadolinium from medical waste.
Q&A with Alum Siwen Deng
Deng, PhD ’19 Plant Biology, is Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer at Sundial Foods. Deng is featured in this Breakthroughs magazine Q&A with alumni who work in alternative meats.
Why I Do Science: Sabeeha Merchant
In the fall issue of Breakthroughs magazine, Professor Sabeeha Merchant reflects on her career studying the biology of trace metals in plants.
Little bacteria in a big world: Making sense of microbial sensing
A new discovery from the Portnoy lab helps scientists understand how food-borne pathogens know when they’ve reached their target.
Ksenia Krasileva receives National Institutes of Health New Innovator Award
The grant is part of NIH’s High-Risk, High-Reward Research program.
Welcoming Patrick Shih to PMB
Patrick Shih specializes in synthetic biology, biochemistry, metabolic engineering, and evolutionary biology.
![Tom Gordon [to be finished]](https://plantandmicrobiology.berkeley.edu/sites/default/files/styles/news_river/public/gordon.jpg?itok=grU3DJxU)
In Memoriam: Tom Gordon
Tom Gordon, a professor of plant pathology from 1985-1996, passed away in June.
Why Sunflowers Face East
Research co-authored by scientists in the Blackman Lab explains how sunlight orientation is linked to pollination and plant reproduction.
Evolutionary arms race
In a study published in the journal Science, members of the Seed lab unlock genetic mechanisms behind cholera and its viruses.
Sophia Ewens highlighted by U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science
Ewens, a researcher at the Energy Biosciences Institute and graduate student in the Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, was noted for her recent publication in the journal PNAS.
How antibiotic-filled poop helps ‘bessbug’ beetles stay healthy
Assistant professor Matthew Traxler investigates a strategy that protects the insect from disease.
Running genetic interference
Associate professor Mary Wildermuth is developing genetic technology that could help control a virulent grapevine pathogen.
“Bamboo ceiling:” Zinmay Renee Sung uplifts experiences of Asian American women
With the 150 Years of Women at Berkeley campaign, professor emerita Sung led a video project interviewing faculty, students, and staff.
Conversation on anti-AAPI racism
In a recent event, the Diversity Committee held a virtual conversation on anti-Asian American and Pacific Islander racism.