Institute's Current Research Projects

Title: Comparative genomics of the flower development in the sunflower family

Researchers: Jennifer Mandel, Biological Sciences in collaboration with Auburn University and the University of Georgia

Abstract: Key to the success of the world’s largest plant family is its compact flower head known as a capitulum, which resembles a single, large flower but is an aggregate of many small flowers. This unique structure plays an important role in pollinator attraction and is a major determinant of yield in many of the family’s crop species. Understanding the genetics of this floral trait, will help to improve food security through optimization of floral structures for yield in crops, and to accelerate progress toward new crop development. This National Science Foundation supported project will increase available genomic tools for the study of the sunflower family and provide novel for gene editing to improve yield and sustainability in the family.

Title: Monitoring Pathogen Buildup in White Oak Outplanted Restoration Sites

Researchers: Shawn Brown, Biological Sciences in collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service

Abstract: White oak plays a major role in Tennessee’s multibillion-dollar forestry economy and the multibillion-dollar whiskey production industry. The white oak industry is facing a tipping point. Due to land use changes, overharvesting, and poor artificial and natural regeneration success, American white oaks are not regenerating fast enough to keep up with demand, creating shortages of mature hardwoods, increasing prices for timber, and raising concerns about sustainability and future availability. Through current support from the USDA Forest Service, ACRE is developing sustainable white oak outplanting tools to ensure the future availability of timber from these trees. This research includes investigation of biological and climate-based drivers to white oak growth; suitability of white oak provenances; and molecular interactions between white oak and pathogens to inform breeding strategies for enhanced resilience.

Title: Biodiversity Risk Assessments

Researchers: Jennifer Mandel, Shawn Brown and Leigh Bordman, Biological Sciences

Abstract: Most local-level biodiversity risk assessments are costly and time-intensive. This limits their application and affects adoption of conservation practices that can improve biodiversity. In collaboration with a corporate partner, ACRE developed a novel approach to mapping local-level biodiversity remotely by using resources like Global Biodiversity Information Facility, Early Detection and Distribution Mapping System, USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database, and NatureServe. This method of biodiversity informatics provides a cost-effective, in-depth preliminary analysis of biodiversity interactions on a field or facility by quantifying species diversity, habitat potential, and associated risks to biodiversity and opportunities to protection. The biodiversity risk assessment can help users identify and prioritize areas for conservation action plans that preserve and restore local area biological diversity, soil health, and ecosystem resilience, and reduce downstream business and financial risks in the supply chain.

Title: Microbiome and Water Stress in Sunflowers

Researchers: Jennifer Mandel & Shawn Brown

Abstract: Drought stress in crops affects belowground fungal microbiomes. Our work shows that fungal community structure is driven by watering levels and plant genotypes. Our analyses demonstrate that the abundance of plant pathogens and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi increases with crop genetic variation levels. This work provides evidence for drought and genetic drivers of belowground sunflower-fungi interactions and offers a framework for leveraging these interactions to further understand how microbiome community structure can improve plant productivity under stress.

Title: Predictive Modeling to Enhance Crop Yield

Researchers: Eddie Jacobs, Mohammadreza Davoodi, Shawn Brown, Jennifer Mandel

Abstract: Heterogeneity in soil moisture and mineral content across a landscape influences plant productivity and soil microbial activity. On an agricultural landscape, these differences may impact the total productivity and yield, especially in systems that employ organic farming, where weeds are a major problem, or regenerative practices, such as cover crops. We aim to maximize the yield of the primary crop while employing cover crops during the winter under these heterogeneous conditions in the field. Our goal is to understand and predict the heterogeneity of agricultural landscapes and its impact on crop yield before ever sowing a seed.

Title: Monitoring Honey Bee Pest and Pathogens Using Environmental DNA

Researchers: Leigh Boardman

Abstract: Healthy honey bees are important for maintaining pollination services. Effective monitoring for emerging pests and diseases is an important aspect of maintaining honey bee health. In collaboration with The University of Florida, we are developing novel diagnostic technologies based on environmental DNA - which is DNA sampled from the environment, not the honey bees themselves. This work will result in diagnostic tools that would improve honey bee health and limit the impacts of invasive organisms on the U.S. honey bee industry.

Title: Agri-STEM Programming and Curriculum

Abstract: ACRE is working to design and promote effective Agri-STEM programming for rural and urban students. This work is helping to create a supportive dynamic across the ecosystem, whereby efforts to develop and promote Agri-STEM programming will ensure a talented workforce for the growth of agriculture in the region providing rich subject matter, hands-on learning experiences, and career pathways for Agri-STEM programming.

Title: Speciality Crop Production and Processing

Abstract: The Mid-South Mississippi Delta has the potential to become a center of agricultural diversity, productivity, and prosperity in the U.S. Our work is providing strategic guidance on critical opportunities to revitalize the regional agricultural economy and ecosystem. The project will bring together a diverse set of partners and engage stakeholders across the region, including underserved groups in distressed communities. The project will help inform public policy, business development, regional investment, and research, education, and outreach efforts to support these opportunities and catalyze job creation and long-term economic growth.

Title: Financing Nature

Abstract: Nearly 25% of plant and animal species globally are threatened with extinction, many within decades, unless action is taken to reduce the intensity of drivers of biodiversity loss. We are researching financial mechanisms to increase farmer adoption of conservation practices that restore biodiversity, soil health, ecosystem resilience.