Plant phenotypic expression and environmental interactions are complex processes involving intricate genetic and biochemical networks. These networks are under tight spatial and temporal regulation of gene expression. Our division takes a comprehensive approach to understanding these biological complexities at the genetic level in the existing germplasm of crops and underutilized plants. We use a variety of molecular approaches and deploy a wide range of tools, from molecular biology to genome editing, to explore phenotypic diversity and uncover novel genes and pathways. This thorough and comprehensive approach has already led to several findings that are paving the way for significant plant improvements.
