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.
Two Rausser College instructors receive Faculty Award for Outstanding Mentorship
Professor Mary Wildermuth received the university-wide honor that recognizes outstanding mentorship in teaching and pedagogy.
Two faculty elected to the National Academy of Sciences
Barbara Baker and N. Louise Glass, both molecular biologists, join the 2021 cohort of elected members.
Why Open Access Is a Game Changer
In a recent opinion piece, Professor Britt Glaunsinger outlines the significant benefits of sharing scientific expertise through open access publications.
Mary Wildermuth and Dhruv Patel receive Extraordinary Teaching award
The two instructors were among five in the College honored for exceptional, innovative teaching during the pandemic.
Rausser graduate students receive National Science Foundation awards
Two doctoral students within our department have been awarded the prestigious research fellowship.
Cracking the Secrets of the Diatom’s Shell
Professor Kris Niyogi and Berkeley Lab research scientist Setsuko Wakao are featured in a podcast about diatom structure and genetics.
How to spot misleading science reporting
Graduate student Hayley McCausland wrote a guide on what to look for when evaluating science news articles.
Scientists gain key understanding about plant receptors
Assistant professor Ksenia Krasileva uses genomic analysis in a new study published in the journal The Plant Cell.
Green algae reveal one mRNA encodes many proteins
In a new study, researchers in professor Sabeeha Merchant's lab outline a previously unknown similarity between bacteria and more complex forms of life.
Volunteers launch pandemic aid initiative
Researchers, faculty, and students formed the Common Humanity Collective, a group distributing hand sanitizer and masks to vulnerable communities.
The Climate-COVID Connection
In Breakthroughs magazine, postdoctoral fellow Cara Brook discusses the linkages between zoonotic diseases and habitat loss.
Why I do Science
In Breakthroughs magazine, associate professor Kathleen Ryan discusses her career path and interest in bacteria research.
Hands on learning at home
Rausser College faculty like professor Tom Bruns use creative methods to engage students with remote learning.
Plant Immune Receptor Discovery Can Help Scientists Fight Agricultural Pandemics
Professor Brian Staskawicz made a critical step toward helping plants fight pathogens without pesticides.
UC Berkeley launches pop-up lab to monitor Bay Area sewage for COVID-19
Plant & Microbial Biology graduate students and an Energy & Resources Group alumna are involved in the project.
Fall 2020 Incoming Faculty
The Department of Plant and Microbial Biology welcomes four exceptional faculty members this semester.