Mission:
The mission of the Genomics and Gene Discovery Research Unit is to apply genomics, molecular biology, and bioinformatics to the improvement of agriculturally and economically important plants. The Unit relates new knowledge from these approaches to the biochemistry, development, physiology, and field behavior of crop plants. This research seeks to enhance the value, quality, and performance of plants producing foods, feeds, fibers, biofuels, and biomaterials. Specific goals include the understanding of global patterns of gene expression in the Triticeae crops (wheat, barley, and rye), the identifcation of genes conferring favorable quality and agronomic traits, the study of the mode of action of those genes, the understanding of the structure of crop genomces, the maintenance and development of publicly available computer databases and Internet resources, the development of genetic markers for plant breeding and research, and the engineering of improved crop plant traits. Interaction with the broader scientific community through activities such as bioinformatics resources is integral to the Unit's objectives. The Unit interacts with other agency, university, and private industry for technology transfer and positive synergisms.